Phoenix Car Accident Attorney
Attorney Representation in Phoenix, Arizona Since 1996
Automobile Damage FAQ
Victims of Arizona car accidents are often left with many questions regarding who will pay their bills, what they should do with their damaged vehicle and where can they go for help. Here is a list of frequently asked questions, which should provide answers to how you can get your vehicle repaired or replaced in the aftermath of a car crash.
Who decides if my car will be repaired or replaced?
The insurance company makes the decision of whether to repair or replace your vehicle after a crash. Insurance investigators will determine the value of your automobile and the cost to repair it in order to determine if the vehicle is a total loss or not. If the insurance adjuster decides that your car is totaled, you may be given payment for its market value.
How is the vehicle's market value determined after a car accident in Arizona?
When a automobile is totaled, the insurance adjuster will have to determine what the vehicle's fair market value was before the collision. The most common tool used to determine this value is the Kelley Blue Book. The insurance adjuster may also consider situational values by referring to a local newspaper or auto trader magazine by comparing your car to others of the same year and type.
The insurance company decided my vehicle is worth repairing.
Now, where can I take it?
You can technically take your vehicle to the repair shop of your choosing. It is important to remember, however, that the amount of money you are given by the insurance company is not related to what your repair shop bills you. In some cases, the insurance adjuster will cut you a check for the damage and it is your obligation to try to find a place that will repair it for you.
Will I have to pay for towing, storage or a rental car?
Additional costs such as towing, rental cars or storage should be paid by the at-fault motorist or his or her insurance company. If you are the victim of the crash, the insurance company should provide you with reimbursement for towing and storage costs and rental car fees. Not all insurance companies cover rental car expenses so you may have to speak to your own insurance agent to determine if you are covered. If you were the driver responsible for the traffic accident in Phoenix, you may have a difficult time having these additional expenses covered by the insurance company. It is common to have to pay for these types of fees upfront and then have the insurance company reimburse you later.
What if I still owed money on my vehicle when it was totaled?
The insurance company is only responsible for the market value of your car. They do not have to reimburse you the amount of money you owed. This means that you may have lost your vehicle and still owe money on it after the crash.
Do I need representation to deal with the insurance companies?
If someone has been injured in the crash or you are worried that the insurance company will refuse payment, it may be in your best interest to speak to a skilled Phoenix personal injury attorney at The Breyer Law Offices, P.C. We offer free consultations at (602) 267-1280 to anyone involved in a car accident in AZ.
