On behalf of Israel & Gerity, PLLC posted in Motor Vehicle Safety on Tuesday, August 14, 2012.

An automobile accident is never an enjoyable experience. Even after the crash is cleaned up and injuries are tended to, dealing with insurance claims can add yet another headache to an already stressful experience.

Understanding your rights after an automobile accident can help ensure that you are not taken advantage of.

A Few Basic Rights Involving Car Insurance in Arizona

Insured drivers have certain rights in Arizona, including the right to choose their own repair shop. According to state law, the insuring agency can offer suggestions, but must also remind the insured parties that ultimately, they have the right to choose which shop is best for their needs.

Some additional tips that may prove useful while wading through the insurance aftermath of a car crash include the following:

  • An insured party only needs to obtain one estimate from one repair shop, multiple estimates are not required
  • Unless a policy specifically requires it, the insured party only needs to report the accident and tell the company where the car can be inspected – you do not need to take the vehicle to a drive-in claims service
  • The quality of repairs is guaranteed by the body shop doing the work

Unfortunately, there are times when an insurance company or auto repair shop may attempt to take advantage of victims involved in car crashes. The insurance company may not agree to cover recommended repairs or may insist that a specific body shop be used to complete repairs. Auto shops may not make all necessary repairs or may make paperwork more challenging for the owner seeking reimbursement from an insurance company.

If you or a loved one finds yourself concerned that an auto repair shop or insurance company may be attempting to take advantage of you following a car accident, it is wise to seek the counsel of an experienced personal injury lawyer to better ensure that your legal rights and remedies are protected.