In December my girlfriend spun out in her 91 DeVille and hit a snow bank. When we looked at the car the front right wheel was pushed in and the tire was flat. Also we think the exhaust disconnected because the engine sounded louder than usual. The car was finally taken to the shop today and the body shop found more damage. We're worried State Farm will total the car and we'll have to sign it over. Here's what her dad said about the trip to the body shop.

Maybe. I don't have details yet. It means that the cost to repair the vehicle, even using second-hand parts, is greater than the fair market value of the entire car. I'll call Herb later on and see what he means exactly. My guess would be that the axle and transfer case (transmission) might have also been damaged.
If the insurance company determines that the car is totalled, they send a check (minus the deductable and any additonal payouts) for the book value of the car, which we would then use to try and replace it. Hang on. Herb's the best. He's trying to find a cheap part and cut us a deal.

I looked up the retail value on a 91 DeVille and got $3,820. What happens here? Does the body shop give a quote to the insurance company and they cut a check? How much would this kind of work run based off my description?

I have a '92 with similar damage.

Any pictures of the damaged wheel-in-fender?

I am wondering if mine is in as bad shape.

Cheers!
-ToDD