[Scoundreller]

Indeed, it doesn't take much damage for the insurance company to declare a low-end vehicle a total loss and salvage it instead of repairing. Could be just cosmetic damage and you find yourself in that problem.

As a result, I don't pay for coverage for my own vehicle in case I'm at fault. My jurisdiction now lets me opt-out of repair coverage others are at fault, but I couldn't stomach that. I think it's just for rental car cos that have their own repair facilities and to avoid ever getting a salvage title.