Both "cash value" and "blue book value" are subjective terms that are not specific enough to determine an amount. Your vehicle's value is determined by comparing your vehicle's condition to similar vehicles. This may include input from local auto dealers, private parties or recent sales. Condition, equipment and mileage differences are also taken into consideration. In addition, the insurance company may use a computerized evaluation process to assist them in determining the value of your vehicle. So, this value may or may not be higher than the "blue book" value.

Insurance companies purchase third party computer systems (like CCC) that help them estimate costs in automotive claims and collision repairs. Third party software supplies insurers with software and a database that helps determine the value of a vehicle based upon automating the claims process. These systems have databases and systems that contain benchmarking tools to find the true value of a vehicle from repair shops and dealers.

You would need to ask the claims adjuster whether or not they will pay for the towing costs. It is likely that they will since you are making a claim against the other party's policy.

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