I am an independent auto appraiser that has done work for ins co's and consumers for nearly 30 years. The place to start is to get an independent appraisal done to establish the actual value of the vehicle. It is likely higher than what the insurance company may first offer. Once that is done and a value agreed to, the vehicle might be deemed repairable if the numbers work out for the ins co. I have no idea what California law is regarding a total loss. %Some states have thresholds ie if the repairs cost more than 70 percent of the value of the vehicle is has to be totaled. Other states it is at the sole discretion of the insurance company whether or not to total the vehicle. If you would like more advice or info feel free to PM me.