Sometimes you will be faced with deciding between repairing your vehicle or considering it totaled. When a vehicle is considered a total-loss, it means the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the vehicle prior to the accident. Typically the insurance will make this determination but ultimately it is up to you if you would rather attempt repairs.
The insurance adjuster will asses the damages and itemize a list of the required auto repairs and associated costs with the allowance they will pay for that repair. Sometimes they can arrange the auto repairs with an approved facility they pay directly, or you can get the reimbursement money and choose where to get repairs done yourself.
A factor to consider when deciding to go ahead with repairs is the value of your vehicle after repairs are complete. The vehicle will now have a record of an accident which will impact its value if you want to sell or trade in the vehicle at any point.