If you or somebody you care about is involved in a vehicle accident caused by the careless or negligent actions of someone else, you should be able to recover various types of compensation. This includes coverage of medical bills and lost wages, and this should also include compensation for any property damaged as a result of the incident. Here, we want to discuss what is considered property damage when a vehicle accident occurs in Arizona.
Vehicle Damage is Property Damage
The main type of property damage that will occur in a vehicle accident is the damage to the actual vehicles involved. When many people think of car accident damage, they think of catastrophic crashes. The reality is that even a relatively minor collision can lead to thousands of dollars worth of vehicle damage. In many cases, a minor crash may not even have any damage that can be seen on the outside of the vehicle. However, the frame of the vehicle or the underlying panels can sustain damage that can significantly impact the functionality of the vehicle.
The total amount of compensation an individual receives for the vehicle will depend on an auto shop repair estimate or professional appraisal for the pre-crash value of the vehicle. If a mechanic believes that they can fix the vehicle for less money than the vehicle is worth, then the mechanic will give a repair estimate, and you will submit this to the insurance carrier to receive compensation for property damage.
If the car is considered a total loss, which means that the pre-accident value is less than what it would cost to actually repair the vehicle, the vehicle will be considered totaled. An individual will receive a check for the pre-crash value of a vehicle. This can become complicated, particularly if an individual owes more on the vehicle than it is actually worth.
Personal Property Damaged in an Accident
It is not uncommon for vehicle accidents to damage other types of property that a person may have inside their vehicle. This can include, but is not limited to, the following:
- Laptop computers
- Tablets
- Cell phones
- Expensive headphones
- Custom stereo systems
- Radios
- Any other personal property of value
Vehicle accident damage will destroy any other types of property, and this property should be listed on the auto insurance claim. It is crucial to provide documentation of the value of these items, including purchase receipts. The at-fault driver may have to provide compensation to repair or replace everything you lost in the crash.
Injuries to Pets
We love our pets and treat them like family. As harsh as it may seem, pets are considered property when it comes to vehicle accidents. If your pet was in the vehicle with you at the time the crash occurred and sustained an injury, then the at-fault driver will likely have to pay any veterinarian bills related to the injuries.
Who Pays for Property Damage in an Arizona Crash?
If you or somebody you care about has been involved in a vehicle accident caused by the careless or negligent actions of another driver, then the other driver’s insurance carrier will be responsible for covering all of these property damage expenses.
However, were at fault for the collision, either totally or partially, you may be on the line for some of these expenses. You need to closely examine your auto insurance policy to see whether or not you have any type of property damage coverage or collision coverage that could help with these expenses.
