If a Yugo with a $20K paint job has an FMV of $750, all the tortfeasor's liability carrier should have to pay is that FMV of $750.

Meanwhile, with a different situation, where one's car is damaged and repaired but not totaled out, look into keeping the property damage claim open for "diminished value."

MSDS, SHO-shop Y, custom 2.5" catback; xcal2; 63mm TB, K&N 3530; Koni struts, Aussie bar; THaines forks, Quaife, SpecII, UR fly; DMD; Nima UD pullies; Stazi brakes; f&r Pole120 mounts. Just a daily commuter car. Silver '98 SVT E0 #3159