Here’s What to Do Next
If you’ve been in a serious accident and totaled your leased vehicle, you’re not alone—many Arizona drivers face confusion about what happens next. Whether the crash occurred in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, or anywhere across Arizona, understanding your rights and financial responsibilities is key to protecting yourself legally and financially.
What “Totaled” Means for a Leased Car
When a car is declared “totaled”, it means the cost to repair the damage exceeds the vehicle’s market value. For leased vehicles, this adds an extra layer of complexity—you don’t technically own the car, and the leasing company plays a major role in the process.
Your insurance company will determine:
· The actual cash value (ACV) of the car before the accident
· The payout made directly to the leasing company
· Whether you still owe money after the insurance settlement
Who Pays What After the Accident?
If the insurance payout doesn’t fully cover the balance of your lease, you could be responsible for paying the “gap”—the difference between what you owe and what the car is worth.
That’s where GAP insurance (Guaranteed Asset Protection) can save you. It covers that shortfall so you’re not left paying for a car you no longer drive.
If you don’t have GAP coverage, the leasing company may bill you directly for:
· Remaining lease payments
· Deductibles or unpaid fees
When Legal Help Becomes Critical
If another driver caused the accident, you may have grounds to pursue a personal injury or property damage claim to recover:
· Medical expenses
· Lost wages
· Pain and suffering
· Vehicle replacement costs
Even if you were partially at fault, Arizona’s comparative negligence law may still allow you to recover a portion of your damages.
At Rideout Law Group, our auto accident attorneys in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City help clients handle insurance disputes, liability investigations, and personal injury claims following serious crashes. We work to ensure the leasing company and insurance adjusters don’t take advantage of you.
Steps to Take After Totaling a Leased Vehicle in Arizona
1. Call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
2. Notify your insurance provider and the leasing company right away.
3. Request the police accident report for your records.
4. Avoid admitting fault at the scene or in recorded statements.
5. Contact an attorney before signing any settlement paperwork.
Why Arizona Drivers Trust Rideout Law Group
· Offices conveniently located in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City
· Experienced auto accident attorneys with a record of client success
· Decades of combined trial and insurance negotiation experience
· Free consultations
Get a Free Case Review
If your leased car was totaled in an Arizona accident, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Our attorneys will review your insurance coverage, handle communications with the leasing company, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.