This bill proposes the creation of a new section in chapter 26.1-40 of the North Dakota Century Code, specifically addressing automobile ownership in cases where an insurer determines that a vehicle has incurred a total loss or constructive total loss. The new legal language stipulates that the insured individual has the option to either retain ownership of the damaged automobile or allow the insurer to take ownership.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision that prohibits insurers from requiring the insured to pay for the return of the automobile after a total loss determination, whether from the insurance payment or through any other means. This aims to protect the rights of insured individuals in the event of a total loss, ensuring they are not financially burdened by the return of their vehicle.