First-Party Claim

A Third-Party Claim is a claim you file against the at-fault driver's insurance policy. You don't pay a deductible, but you also don't have policy rights with that carrier — including the appraisal clause — which can make negotiation harder.

An Appraisal Clause is a provision in most US auto insurance policies that lets either you or the insurer demand an independent appraisal when you disagree on the value of a totaled vehicle. Each side selects a competent, independent appraiser; the two appraisers select an umpire; and the resulting valuation is binding.