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Property Damage Associated With Automobile Accidents

July 17, 2014 Hastings and Hastings

Dealing With Property Damage Associated With An Automobile Accident

While the health and well-being of the occupants of a vehicle are always the most important priority when an automobile accident has occurred, there are property damage issues that also must be addressed. As with the injuries that are experienced in an automobile accident, property damage must also be assessed and addressed as quickly as possible to ensure a better chance of a recovery for those that have been involved in an accident that has been no fault of their own.

Assessing The Damage

In most cases, when another individual has caused an automobile accident, their insurance company will be expected to cover the costs associated with any type of property damage. Even those that are not responsible for the accident may still find that their insurance coverage in certain instances will be used to cover the costs associated with property damage. When assessing the damage to an automobile that is the result of an automobile accident, insurance adjusters will typically either determine what is required to repair a vehicle or if a vehicle is indeed a total loss.

The Result Of An Automobile Accident

When a vehicle has been determined to be a total loss where the cost of repairing the vehicle exceeds the vehicle’s value, then fair market value must be determined. Fair market value of a totaled vehicle is calculated and then offered as a settlement with regard to property damage claim.

The Party Experiencing The Loss

An attorney can help set up the claim when there are injuries sustained in the accident and advise on mitigation of damages required under Arizona law. Expenses that must be calculated and taken into account with regard to property damage claims include towing fees and storage fees. The rental of a vehicle while a damaged automobile is being repaired is another expense that must be factored into any property damage claim. Whether repairs are the best option or an insurance adjuster determines that an automobile is a total loss, either way the party experiencing the loss should be properly compensated. Contact Hastings & Hastings today to learn more about a Phoenix bodily injury attorney that has helped thousands of individuals that have experienced an automobile accident.