Is it true that I can only get fair market value for my car so that I would still have to finish paying loan and be left without a car?

Dear Anonymous,   Yes.  It is true that the insurance company is only required to pay you fair market value for the damage to your vehicle even though it was the other driver's fault.  However, if you were injured in the accident, you would be entitled to be compensated for your reasonable medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any permanent impairment.  Check with your own insurance company to be sure you don't have GAP insurance, which would cover the difference between what you owe on the vehicle and the fair market value.   Chip Clark