Pretty sure my car is totaled but insurance won't confirm for days — do I just buy something new?

I went through almost this exact thing two years ago. Rear-ended bad, axle bent, multiple airbags — and insurance took forever. What I did was start researching comparable vehicles on my own (same year, similar mileage, same trim level) in my region and screenshot everything. When they finally sent me their valuation it was low, and I was able to push back with actual listings. They bumped the offer. Don't just accept the first number they throw at you.

So here's the thing — from the inside, when an adjuster says they're 'backed up,' that's sometimes true and sometimes a stall. Either way, you can push. Ask them specifically: has the vehicle been inspected yet, and has a repair estimate been generated? If the estimate already exists and it's close to the ACV (actual cash value), they already know it's likely a total. They just haven't committed in writing yet.

Also, ask about extending the rental. A lot of policies have provisions for that, especially when the delay is on THEIR end, not yours.

Do NOT just trust whatever payout number they land on. Insurance companies have every incentive to undervalue your car. They use their own valuation tools that often pull from lower-end comps. You have the right to dispute it. Get your own comps, document everything, and don't sign any release until you're actually satisfied with the number.

A couple things worth knowing: most states have a total loss threshold — usually somewhere between 70-80% of the car's fair market value in repair costs — that triggers an automatic total loss determination. With a bent axle and multiple deployed airbags, you're almost certainly over that line. Also, if the rental delay is caused by their appraisal backlog, you may have grounds to request they cover the rental beyond your policy limit. Worth asking directly and getting it in writing if they agree.

I just want to check — how are YOU doing physically? A rear-end impact that hard can do a number on your neck and back even if you feel okay right now. Soft tissue injuries sometimes don't fully show up for a few days. Please see a doctor if you haven't already, and make sure everything gets documented. Don't just focus on the car situation and forget about yourself.

Quick question — is the claim going through the other driver's liability insurance or your own collision coverage? That actually changes the leverage you have and the timeline you're dealing with. If it's through theirs, you might have less direct control but you also have the option of going through your own insurer first and letting them deal with subrogation on the back end.

The GAP coverage is honestly huge here. So many people don't have it and end up underwater when their car gets totaled. At least you won't be left owing money on a car you no longer have. Once the payout comes through you'll have a clean slate to start over with.

This sounds so stressful, I'm sorry you're dealing with it. The limbo of not knowing is the worst part. Hoping the appraisal comes back soon so you can just make a decision and move forward.