Insurance Claims FAQ
Filing an insurance claim shouldn't feel harder than the accident. Here's how it actually works in Arizona — written by the team that's handled tens of thousands of claims since 1989.
Insurance Claims FAQ
Do I have to use the body shop my insurance company recommends?
No. Arizona Revised Statute §20-469 protects your right to choose any licensed body shop. Your insurer may steer you toward a Direct Repair Program (DRP) shop because it saves them money, but the choice is yours. Orlando Auto Body works with every major insurer — State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, USAA, Farmers, Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, and the rest.
How does the insurance claim process work step by step?
After the accident: (1) file the claim with your insurer or the at-fault driver's insurer; (2) get a claim number and adjuster contact; (3) bring the claim number to Orlando Auto Body and we take it from there. We document the damage, write the estimate, negotiate supplements with the adjuster for hidden damage, and bill the insurance company directly. You pay your deductible (if any) and pick up your repaired vehicle.
What is a deductible and when do I have to pay it?
Your deductible is the out-of-pocket portion you owe before insurance pays. It's set in your policy — typically $500, $1,000, or $1,500. You pay the deductible when you pick the vehicle up. If the accident wasn't your fault and the at-fault driver's insurance is paying, you usually owe nothing.
What if my insurance estimate doesn't cover all the damage?
That's normal. The first estimate is written from a parking-lot walk-around — most damage hides behind panels and inside the structure until we tear the car down. We submit a supplement (a follow-up estimate) with photos and documentation, and the insurer adds money to the claim. Mike rule at OAB: we fight for proper repair every time, no shortcuts.
Can I get a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?
Most policies include rental coverage — typically $30-$50/day for 30 days. Check your declarations page or ask your adjuster. We coordinate the rental directly with your insurance and Enterprise (or whichever provider). For not-at-fault claims, the at-fault carrier owes you a rental at no cost.
How long does an insurance-paid repair take?
Bumper-only repairs: 3-5 business days. Moderate collision (door, fender, quarter panel): 7-14 business days. Major structural repair: 2-4 weeks. The biggest variable is parts availability — OEM parts on newer or imported vehicles can add a week. We text status updates throughout so you're never guessing.
Will filing a claim raise my insurance rates?
It depends on fault and your insurer. Not-at-fault claims (someone else hit you) typically don't raise your rates in Arizona. At-fault claims often do at your next renewal. Check with your agent — every insurer is different. Either way, we never advise against filing if the damage is real.
What if the at-fault driver doesn't have insurance?
If you have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) coverage, your own insurance pays. If not, you can repair under collision coverage (with deductible) and your insurer will subrogate against the uninsured driver. Worst case: you can sue the at-fault driver in small claims or civil court. We can refer you to local attorneys who specialize in this.
Should I get multiple estimates before choosing a shop?
You can — but you don't have to. Insurance pays based on the agreed-on damage, not the lowest bid. The right question isn't 'who's cheapest' but 'who repairs it correctly so the car is safe and holds value.' OAB is I-CAR Gold Class certified, OEM-procedure compliant, and has a lifetime workmanship warranty. Bring us the claim number — that's all we need.
Can Orlando Auto Body help me with a diminished value claim too?
Yes — we're the only shop in the Phoenix Valley with a dedicated DV program. After your repair, we provide a free $450-value DV Appraisal Packet documenting your vehicle's lost market value so you can recover it from the at-fault carrier. See our /faq/diminished-value page for details.
Talk to a Real Estimator
Free appointments. All insurance accepted. Family-owned since 1989.