After payment of an automobile claim, who retains ownership of the salvaged property?

The correct answer is that the insurer retains ownership of the salvaged property after payment of an automobile claim. This practice typically aligns with the principle that the insurance company, upon compensating the insured for their loss, acquires the right to the salvaged vehicle. This allows the insurer to assess the salvaged property and potentially recoup some of their losses by selling it.

In many cases, once a claim is paid, the insurance company assumes the title to the salvaged vehicle, which is particularly true when the vehicle is deemed a total loss. This process involves ensuring that the insurer can manage the salvage appropriately.

Ownership by the insurer is also a practical consideration, as it eliminates any ambiguity regarding who has the right to the salvaged vehicle after compensation is processed.

The other options reflect scenarios that do not generally align with standard insurance practices regarding salvaged property post-claim payment, which further emphasizes why the insurer's ownership is the correct answer.