{"id":104131,"date":"2025-04-16T14:08:56","date_gmt":"2025-04-16T21:08:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usaccidentlawyer.com\/?p=104131"},"modified":"2026-05-20T00:24:16","modified_gmt":"2026-05-20T00:24:16","slug":"is-my-car-a-total-loss-if-the-airbags-deploy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/the-fine-print\/is-my-car-a-total-loss-if-the-airbags-deploy\/","title":{"rendered":"If Airbags Are Deployed Is the Car Totaled?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"dklaw-section dklaw-hero dklaw-hero__blog align wp-block-dklaw-hero-blog has-background has-primary-beige-background-color\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\"><div class=\"dklaw-breadcrumbs align wp-block-dklaw-breadcrumbs\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\">Home<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/the-fine-print\/is-my-car-a-total-loss-if-the-airbags-deploy\/\" class=\"current\">If Airbags Are Deployed Is the Car Totaled?<\/a><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n\t{\n\t  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n\t  \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\",\n\t  \"itemListElement\": [\n\t\t  {\n\t\t\t\t\"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n\t\t\t\t\"position\": 1,\n\t\t\t\t\"name\": \"Home\",\n\t\t\t\t\"item\" : \"https:\/\/dklaw.com\"\n\t\t\t},{\n\t\t\t\t\"@type\": \"ListItem\",\n\t\t\t\t\"position\": 2,\n\t\t\t\t\"name\": \"If Airbags Are Deployed Is the Car Totaled?\",\n\t\t\t\t\"item\" : \"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/the-fine-print\/is-my-car-a-total-loss-if-the-airbags-deploy\/\"\n\t\t\t}\n\t  ]\n\t}\n\t<\/script><\/div>\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If Airbags Are Deployed Is the Car Totaled?<\/h1>\n\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-hero__blog-meta align wp-block-dklaw-hero-blog-meta\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n<div class=\"dklaw-taxonomies align wp-block-dklaw-taxonomies\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/learning-hub\/?_practice_area=car-accidents\" rel=\"nofollow\">Car Accidents<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/learning-hub\/?_topics=safety\" rel=\"nofollow\">Safety<\/a> <\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-primary-gray-color has-text-color\">Reading Time: 4 Minutes<\/p>\n\n<\/div><span>April 16, 2025<\/span><span>Briana Seftel<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image.jpeg\" alt=\"Airbag deployed in vehicle.\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-section dklaw-toc alignfull wp-block-dklaw-toc\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__sidebar align wp-block-dklaw-toc-sidebar\"><div class=\"dklaw-toc__sidebar-menu\"><h4 class=\"dklaw-toc__sidebar-toggle\">Jump To<\/h4><ul><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n<div class=\"dklaw-card align wp-block-dklaw-card has-background has-primary-black-background-color\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-primary-white-color has-text-color\">Every 4 minutes.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-primary-white-color has-text-color\">On average, every 4 minutes someone picks up the phone and calls us for help. That kind of trust says everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-button-phone\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-primary-yellow-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:7147903562\">714-790-3562<\/a><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__blocks align wp-block-dklaw-toc-blocks\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<p>After a crash, many California drivers wonder: &#8220;If my airbags deployed, is my car a total loss?&#8221; The short answer: not necessarily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Airbag deployment alone doesn&#8217;t trigger a total loss. Under California law, your insurer makes that call by comparing the cost of repairs (including airbag replacement) to your vehicle&#8217;s actual cash value using a specific statutory formula, and California&#8217;s rule is different from what you may have read on insurance industry websites or out-of-state law firm blogs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s how the calculation actually works under California Vehicle Code \u00a7544, what to do if you disagree with the insurer&#8217;s decision, and when airbag deployment may signal you have a personal injury or product liability claim separate from your vehicle damage claim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TL;DR<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-arrow-list\">\n<li>Airbag deployment doesn&#8217;t automatically total your car<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>California uses the <strong>Total Loss Formula (TLF)<\/strong> codified in CA Vehicle Code \u00a7544: your car is totaled when repair cost + salvage value \u2265 actual cash value \u2014 <em>not<\/em> a fixed percentage threshold like Florida (80%) or Texas (100%)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Airbag replacement runs $1,000\u2013$1,500 per airbag; multi-airbag jobs can exceed $5,000 once sensors, modules, and seatbelts are factored in<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Front airbags typically deploy at impacts equivalent to 8\u201314 mph into a fixed barrier (or roughly a 16\u201328 mph crash with another vehicle of similar size)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insurance covers replacement under collision, comprehensive, or the at-fault driver&#8217;s liability policy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deployed airbags cannot be reused. They must be replaced before the car is roadworthy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If Airbags Deploy, Is the Car Totaled?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Airbags are designed to deploy in moderate to severe crashes, particularly frontal or near-frontal impacts. When they do deploy, it signals that the crash involved significant force, but it doesn\u2019t guarantee that your car is totaled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether a vehicle is &#8220;totaled&#8221; depends on the rules in your state. Many states use a percentage threshold (often 70%\u201380% of the vehicle&#8217;s actual cash value, or ACV; Texas requires 100%), but <strong>California uses a different statutory approach<\/strong> explained in the next section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Example:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your car is worth $10,000 and repairs cost $8,000, the insurer may deem the vehicle a total loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While airbag deployment increases costs (since airbags must be replaced and can\u2019t be reused), it\u2019s just one factor that insurance companies consider when assessing a totaled vehicle.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How California Decides If Your Car Is a Total Loss<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>California Vehicle Code \u00a7544 defines a &#8220;total loss salvage vehicle&#8221; using a two-part test:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The vehicle has been wrecked, destroyed, or damaged so badly that the leasing, lending, or insurance company considers it <strong>uneconomical to repair<\/strong>, AND<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The vehicle is not repaired following the damage.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>To determine whether repair is &#8220;uneconomical,&#8221; California insurers apply the <strong>Total Loss Formula (TLF)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost of Repairs + Salvage Value \u2265 Actual Cash Value (ACV) \u2192 Total Loss<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike Florida (80%), Virginia (75%), or Texas (100%), California has no fixed percentage threshold. The TLF is what insurers use in practice to operationalize the \u00a7544 standard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Example:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your car&#8217;s pre-crash ACV is $15,000. Repairs are estimated at $10,000, and the salvage value is $6,000. Add the repair cost and salvage value: $10,000 + $6,000 = $16,000. Because $16,000 exceeds the $15,000 ACV, your insurer must declare the vehicle a total loss under California law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Airbag deployment factors heavily into this calculation. Replacing an airbag system isn&#8217;t just the airbag itself \u2014 it usually includes new sensors, a new control module, replacement seatbelts (which lock during deployment), and sometimes a new steering column or dashboard panel. On lower-value vehicles, airbag deployment alone can push the formula over the line into total-loss territory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>California also gives policyholders the <strong>right to dispute the ACV the insurer assigns<\/strong>. You can submit comparable vehicle listings, maintenance records, or an independent appraisal to push for a higher payout \u2014 a process explained in detail in the dispute section below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>(Reference:<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dmv.ca.gov\/portal\/vehicle-registration\/new-registration\/total-loss-salvage-non-repairable-vehicles\/\"><em> California DMV \u2014 Total Loss Salvage &amp; Non-Repairable Vehicles<\/em><\/a><em>)<\/em><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Affects Your Car&#8217;s Actual Cash Value (ACV)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Because California&#8217;s total loss decision hinges on ACV, understanding how insurers calculate it matters. ACV factors include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-arrow-list\">\n<li><strong>Pre-crash market value:<\/strong> Recent sale prices for comparable vehicles in your local market (year, make, model, trim, mileage, condition)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Diminished value:<\/strong> California recognizes three types of diminished value that can affect a vehicle&#8217;s worth after a crash:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><em>Immediate diminished value<\/em> \u2014 the difference between the vehicle&#8217;s value right before vs. right after the accident<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Inherent diminished value<\/em> \u2014 the reduced value caused by the stigma of having been in a major accident, even after full repairs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Repair-related diminished value<\/em> \u2014 the reduced value caused by less-than-perfect repairs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Maintenance history:<\/strong> Documented service records can support a higher ACV<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Condition factors:<\/strong> Wear and tear, cosmetic issues, aftermarket upgrades<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Local supply and demand:<\/strong> A relatively rare or in-demand vehicle may command a higher ACV than the standard &#8220;book value&#8221;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Insurance adjusters often default to industry pricing tools that miss these factors. Documenting them yourself is one of the most effective ways to push back on a low offer.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Airbags Deploy (and When They Should)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Airbags are triggered by sensors that detect a sudden deceleration or impact. Per<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/vehicle-safety\/air-bags\"> NHTSA<\/a>, frontal airbags are designed to deploy in moderate to severe crashes \u2014 generally those equivalent to hitting a fixed barrier at 8\u201314 mph (roughly a 16\u201328 mph collision with a parked car of similar size).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Deployment is meant to protect occupants, especially in front-seat positions, from serious injury. According to the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.iihs.org\/research-areas\/airbags\"> Insurance Institute for Highway Safety<\/a>, frontal airbags have saved an estimated <strong>70,000+ lives<\/strong> through 2019, with about <strong>4,330 lives saved in 2019 alone<\/strong>. Used in combination with a lap-and-shoulder belt, an airbag reduces the risk of death in a frontal crash by approximately 61%.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What If My Airbags Didn\u2019t Deploy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If your airbags didn\u2019t deploy in a crash where you believe they should have, this could point to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-arrow-list\">\n<li>A sensor malfunction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An airbag defect<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A collision that didn\u2019t meet the threshold for deployment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In such cases, especially when serious injuries have occurred, it\u2019s essential to consult with a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/practice-areas\/personal-injury\">personal injury attorney<\/a>. You may be able to file a defective product claim against the manufacturer if a faulty airbag system contributed to your injuries.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I Have to Replace Airbags After Deployment?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Once airbags deploy, they must be replaced. They are single-use safety systems and cannot be reset or reused. If your car isn\u2019t totaled, you\u2019ll need to ensure the airbags are fully replaced and functional before driving again.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Much Does Airbag Replacement Cost?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"790\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Airbag in vehicle\" class=\"wp-image-104707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-1.jpeg 790w, https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-1-300x194.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-1-768x498.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-1-18x12.jpeg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 790px) 100vw, 790px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Replacing airbags is not cheap. Costs vary depending on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-arrow-list\">\n<li><strong>The number of airbags deployed<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your vehicle\u2019s make and model<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Additional parts like sensors or control modules<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Replacing deployed airbags requires removing the entire airbag module and installing a new one. If the airbag was located in the steering wheel, you might also need to replace the wheel and steering column.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On average, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdpower.com\/cars\/shopping-guides\/how-much-does-it-cost-to-replace-an-airbag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">replacing a single airbag<\/a> can cost between $1,000 and $1,500. For accidents involving multiple airbags, the total cost could exceed $5,000.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will Insurance Pay for Airbag Replacement?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have collision or comprehensive coverage, or if another driver was at fault, insurance will typically cover airbag replacement. However, you may be responsible for a deductible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because airbag deployment significantly increases repair costs, it can push the total estimate close to or beyond the car\u2019s value, leading the insurer to total the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Happens If the Insurance Company Totals My Car?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If your car is totaled after the airbags deploy, your car insurance company will usually pay your vehicle\u2019s actual cash value before the accident, minus any deductible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They\u2019ll assess:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-arrow-list\">\n<li><strong>The extent of damage<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The vehicle\u2019s salvage value<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Repairs (including airbags, sensors, and any structural work)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you believe the insurance company is undervaluing your vehicle or making the wrong call, speak with a car accident attorney for help.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I Have a Personal Injury Claim If the Airbags Deployed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If the accident was caused by another driver\u2019s negligence and you were injured, you may be eligible for compensation. A personal injury claim can help you recover:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Economic Damages:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-arrow-list\">\n<li>Medical bills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lost income<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Property damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ongoing treatment costs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Non-Economic Damages:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-arrow-list\">\n<li>Pain and suffering<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Emotional distress<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced quality of life<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-toc__block align wp-block-dklaw-toc-block\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"790\" height=\"527\" src=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Daniel Kim sitting in conference room\" class=\"wp-image-104708\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-2.jpeg 790w, https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image-2-18x12.jpeg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 790px) 100vw, 790px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If your car airbags deployed and:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-arrow-list\">\n<li>You were seriously injured<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The accident wasn\u2019t your fault<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You\u2019re struggling with insurance claims or unclear liability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s time to consult an attorney. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation and can help you understand your rights and next steps. Whether your car was totaled or not, we\u2019re here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Call us at&nbsp;<strong>(800) 719-9779<\/strong>&nbsp;or fill out a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/contact\">quick form<\/a>&nbsp;to schedule your free case evaluation.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-author align wp-block-dklaw-author has-text-color has-primary-black-color has-background has-tertiary-blue-background-color\"><div class=\"dklaw-author__block\"><div class=\"dklaw-author__image\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/BrianaSeftel-PS1-copy-1024x675.jpg);\"><\/div><div><p class=\"dklaw-author__block-about\">About the Author<\/p><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-heading-serif\">Briana Seftel<\/h4><h6>Web Content Manager<\/h6><p>Briana manages digital content at DK Law, combining her journalism background and legal expertise to create clear, client-focused articles and resources.<\/p>\n<div class=\"dklaw-author__social-icons\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/brianaseftel\/\"><svg width=\"17\" height=\"17\" viewBox=\"0 0 17 17\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><g clip-path=\"url(#clip0_5702_21335)\"><path d=\"M15.7416 0H1.25508C0.561133 0 0 0.547852 0 1.2252V15.7715C0 16.4488 0.561133 17 1.25508 17H15.7416C16.4355 17 17 16.4488 17 15.7748V1.2252C17 0.547852 16.4355 0 15.7416 0ZM5.04355 14.4865H2.52012V6.37168H5.04355V14.4865ZM3.78184 5.26602C2.97168 5.26602 2.31758 4.61191 2.31758 3.80508C2.31758 2.99824 2.97168 2.34414 3.78184 2.34414C4.58867 2.34414 5.24277 2.99824 5.24277 3.80508C5.24277 4.60859 4.58867 5.26602 3.78184 5.26602ZM14.4865 14.4865H11.9664V10.542C11.9664 9.60234 11.9498 8.39043 10.6549 8.39043C9.34336 8.39043 9.14414 9.41641 9.14414 10.4756V14.4865H6.62734V6.37168H9.04453V7.48066H9.07773C9.41308 6.84316 10.2365 6.16914 11.4617 6.16914C14.015 6.16914 14.4865 7.84922 14.4865 10.034V14.4865Z\" fill=\"#08368B\"\/><\/g><defs><clipPath id=\"clip0_5702_21335\"><rect width=\"17\" height=\"17\" fill=\"white\"\/><\/clipPath><\/defs><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"dklaw-author__block\"><div class=\"dklaw-author__image\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/matt-taylor-featured-image.jpg);\"><\/div><div><p>Reviewed By<\/p><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-heading-serif\">Matt Taylor, Esq.<\/h4><h6>Senior Partner &#038; Director of Litigation<\/h6><p>Matt Taylor is a seasoned trial attorney at DK Law with 10+ years experience handling complex personal injury and premises liability cases.<\/p>\n<br><p><em>Last reviewed on May 20, 2026<\/em><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div id=\"form\" style=\"--bg-image: url(\/wp-content\/themes\/dklaw\/img\/dklaw-form-bg.jpg);\" class=\"dklaw-section dklaw-cta dklaw-cta-form alignfull wp-block-dklaw-cta-form has-background has-primary-beige-background-color\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-primary-black-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column dklaw-cta-form__bg-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading dklaw-cta-form__heading has-primary-white-color has-text-color\">DK <em>All the way<\/em><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"dklaw-section dklaw-section__logos align wp-block-dklaw-logos\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"dklaw-logos align wp-block-dklaw-logos-repeater\"><div class=\"dklaw-logos__logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/form-award-1.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"NAOPIA Badge\"><\/div><div class=\"dklaw-logos__logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/form-award-2.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Nation's Top One Percent Badge\"><\/div><div class=\"dklaw-logos__logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/form-award-3.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Multi Million Dollar Advocates Forum Badge\"><\/div><div class=\"dklaw-logos__logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/form-award-4.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Lawyers of Distinction Badge\"><\/div><div class=\"dklaw-logos__logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/form-award-5.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Badge\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"dklaw-cta-form__subheading has-primary-white-color has-text-color\">From Your Case to Compensation, we take your case <em>all the way.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\"><div class=\"dklaw-form align wp-block-dklaw-form\"><div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading dklaw-form__heading\">Schedule a Free Consultation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"dklaw-form__subheading has-primary-green-color has-text-color\">Get Expert Legal Advice at <strong>Zero Cost.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t<form id=\"dklaw-form\" class=\"dklaw-form__form\" role=\"form\" aria-label=\"Free Case Review Form\" data-redirect=\"\/ty\/thank-you\/\">\n\t\t<div class=\"dklaw-form__form-grid\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"dklaw-form__form-field\">\n\t\t\t\t<label for=\"firstName\">First Name<\/label>\t\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" id=\"firstName\" name=\"firstname\" placeholder=\"First Name\" value=\"\" aria-required=\"true\" required>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"dklaw-form__form-field\">\n\t\t\t\t<label for=\"lastName\">Last Name<\/label>\t\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" id=\"lastName\" name=\"lastname\" placeholder=\"Last Name\" value=\"\" aria-required=\"true\" required>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"dklaw-form__form-field\">\n\t\t\t<label for=\"email\">Email<\/label>\t\t\t<input type=\"email\" id=\"email\" name=\"email\" placeholder=\"Email Address\" value=\"\" aria-required=\"true\" required>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"dklaw-form__form-field\">\n\t\t\t<label for=\"phone\">Phone Number<\/label>\t\t\t<input type=\"tel\" id=\"phone\" name=\"phone\" placeholder=\"Phone Number\" value=\"\" aria-required=\"true\" required minlength=\"14\">\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"dklaw-form__form-field dklaw-form__form-checkbox\">\n\t\t\t<input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"terms\" value=\"\" name=\"allow_texting\" aria-describedby=\"terms-note\" checked>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<label for=\"terms\" id=\"terms-note\">By checking this box, you expressly consent to receive calls, text messages, and emails from DK Law regarding your inquiry, including communications sent using automated technology. 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California Rules | DK Law","_seopress_titles_desc":"Learn whether your car is considered totaled, how insurance companies decide, and what steps to take after an accident.","_seopress_robots_index":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[100],"tags":[],"practice_area":[112],"topics":[132],"class_list":["post-104131","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-car-accidents","practice_area-car-accidents","topics-safety"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/104131","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=104131"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/104131\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/104135"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=104131"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=104131"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=104131"},{"taxonomy":"practice_area","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/practice_area?post=104131"},{"taxonomy":"topics","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dklaw.com\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/topics?post=104131"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}