If your vehicle is safe and drivable, continue using it until the body shop schedules repairs.
Most repair facilities can help you arrange a rental car while the work is being completed.
If the at-fault driver has enough insurance coverage, their insurer should pay for both the repairs and your rental vehicle.
However, in multi-vehicle crashes, things can get complicated.
Many Arizona drivers only carry the minimum property-damage coverage of $15,000.
When multiple vehicles are damaged and the total repairs exceed that limit, the funds are split on a pro-rata basis — meaning each driver receives a proportional share based on their repair costs.
If you have collision coverage, it may be faster to have your own insurer handle the repair and seek reimbursement later.
You may also have rental reimbursement coverage, which pays for a rental vehicle for a set number of days or up to a specific dollar limit.
Be careful not to exceed that timeframe, as additional costs will be your responsibility.
When Your Vehicle Is a Total Loss
If your car is determined to be an “actual total loss” or a “constructive total loss,” you’ll typically be provided with a rental vehicle until a settlement offer is made.
Once the offer is presented, you’ll have 3–5 days to return the rental.
To ensure you receive the highest payout possible, gather receipts for:
Recent vehicle upgrades (e.g., custom alloy wheels, stereo systems)
Maintenance or accessories that add value
Insurance will pay the fair market value of your car, minus deductions for excess mileage or prior damage, and plus applicable sales tax and registration/tag refunds.
If your vehicle is declared a total loss, start shopping for a replacement early.
Do not tell the dealership your old car was totaled—simply indicate you have no trade-in.
If the repair cost exceeds roughly 70% of your vehicle’s pre-accident value, it may be considered a constructive total loss.
You can choose to keep the vehicle and apply for a salvage title.
The insurer will deduct the salvage value, and you’ll need to provide proof of your salvage title application within 45 days to complete payment.
Rental Vehicle Guidelines
Your auto insurance may cover a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired—up to your policy’s limit.
Important details:
If you already have collision coverage, you generally don’t need the rental company’s optional collision protection.
If you don’t have collision coverage, that optional coverage will be your expense.
If you have no personal insurance, you must purchase liability coverage from the rental agency to comply with Arizona law.
Rental cars should be comparable in use and capacity to your own vehicle.
For example, if your vehicle was a compact sedan, you shouldn’t expect a full-size SUV as a replacement.
Personal Property Damage
If personal items inside your vehicle were damaged, you’re entitled to the current value of each item, not the original price.
Example:
A two-year-old car seat originally costing $300 with a five-year lifespan would be valued at 60% (3 years remaining), or $180.
Provide receipts or proof of purchase for all claimed items. You can often retrieve these from your bank or credit card provider.
Note: Equipment installed in your vehicle (such as stereos or lighting) is part of your vehicle damage claim, not personal property.
Key Takeaways for Arizona Drivers
✅ Keep driving your vehicle if it’s safe until repairs are scheduled.
✅ Use your own insurance if liability coverage is limited.
✅ Track all receipts and repair documentation.
✅ Begin shopping early if your car may be totaled.
✅ Consult Loefgren Law for help dealing with insurance carriers or total loss disputes.
🚗 Need help after an accident?
The team at Loefgren Law helps Arizona drivers navigate vehicle repair disputes, rental delays, and total loss claims every day.
We’ll make sure your insurance company honors your rights and pays what you’re owed.