08/27/2026
⚖️Know Your Rights After an Accident⚖️
In Arizona, you have the absolute legal right to choose any auto repair shop to fix your vehicle after a car accident. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 20-468, insurance companies are strictly prohibited from forcing or steering you into using their preferred network facilities.
Your Essential Auto Repair Rights in Arizona
• The Right to Choose Your Shop: You decide where your vehicle goes. Even if an insurer writes an initial estimate at one facility, you can legally take that estimate and have the actual work performed at your chosen shop.
• Protection Against Claims Steering: Insurance companies cannot deny your claim, reduce your payouts, or intentionally delay your compensation simply because you picked an independent, non-network repair shop.
• Written Notice for Non-OEM Parts: Arizona law mandates that both insurance providers and repair facilities must provide you with a written notice on the repair estimate if they intend to use aftermarket or non-Original Equipment Manufacturer (non-OEM) parts. This applies specifically to exterior non-mechanical sheet metal or plastic panels.
• Right to Demand OEM Parts: While policies often mention using "like kind and quality" (LKQ) parts, you can dispute non-OEM parts if they are of inferior quality or compromise vehicle safety. A reputable repair shop will negotiate directly with the insurer to justify the necessity of manufacturer parts.
• Loss of Use and Rental Compensation: If you were not at fault for the accident, you have the right to compensation for "loss of use" while your car is in the shop. This entitles you to a rental vehicle of equivalent value or a payout covering that daily rental value.
• Diminution in Value Claims: After repairs are completed, your vehicle inherently carries an accident history that lowers its market value. In Arizona, you have the right to file a "diminution in value" property damage claim against the at-fault driver's insurance to recover this lost financial equity.
What Insurance Companies Can and Cannot Do
Insurer Actions Allowed and Not Allowed
Can recommend a "Direct Repair Program" (DRP) network shop. Cannot require you to use their recommended shop.
Can request to inspect the vehicle's damage before repairs begin. Cannot threaten to cancel your policy for choosing your own shop.
Can limit their payment to market-rate repair costs. Cannot use unauthorized aftermarket parts without written notice.
Steps to Protect Yourself During Repairs
1. Do Not Rush into Preferred Shops: Insurance-recommended shops sign cost-control agreements with insurers. Pick an independent shop certified in your vehicle's specific make like Precision Auto Body
2. Review the Estimate Closely: Look for the required written disclaimer regarding non-OEM parts.
3. Let the Shop Negotiate Supplements: If the shop discovers hidden damage after taking the car apart, they can file a supplemental claim directly with the insurer to cover the extra costs.
4. Document Steering Violations: If an insurance agent claims they will not guarantee the repairs or will charge you extra fees unless you use their shop, document the conversation and file a complaint with the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI)
Precision Auto Body is your premier manufacturer O EM Certified collision repair choice in the East Valley. We are certified by over 23 vehicle manufacturers, including Acura, Alfa Romeo, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, GMC, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jeep, KIA, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Ram, Toyota, and VW.
While we work with all insurance companies, we are not contracted with them, ensuring our primary commitment remains with you, our customer. We exclusively use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. Don't let the insurance companies dictate how your vehicle is repaired!
Family owned and operated for over twenty years, we offer three convenient locations in Scottsdale/Tempe, Ahwatukee/Chandler, and Gilbert/Mesa.
You can learn more at www.precision-autobody.com
