The path from the accident scene to a final settlement can feel like a long and confusing road. You’re not just healing from your injuries; you’re also facing a legal process filled with unfamiliar steps, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. Understanding this journey is the first step toward taking control of your situation. An experienced attorney acts as your roadmap, guiding you through each phase with confidence and skill. They manage the deadlines, handle the communications, and build your case from the ground up. This guide breaks down the entire process, showing you how car accident lawyers in Arizona turn chaos into a clear, manageable plan for justice.
Key Takeaways
- A lawyer handles the entire legal burden: They manage the investigation, deal with insurance adjusters, and calculate the full value of your claim, which frees you to focus on your recovery without the added stress.
- You can afford expert help without upfront costs: Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee, meaning you only pay if they win your case. This approach often leads to a significantly higher settlement than you could get on your own.
- Choosing the right attorney is a critical decision: Look for a lawyer with specific car accident experience, a strong track record, and a communication style you’re comfortable with, and remember to act quickly to meet Arizona’s two-year filing deadline.
What Does a Car Accident Lawyer in Arizona Do?
After a car accident, you’re dealing with a lot—injuries, car repairs, and endless phone calls. It’s easy to wonder where a lawyer fits into all this. Simply put, a
Think of your lawyer as the project manager for your case. Their first job is to conduct a thorough investigation into the crash. This means gathering crucial evidence like police reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available photo or video footage. They work to build a strong foundation for your personal injury claim by proving exactly who was at fault and how the accident has impacted your life. This detailed preparation is key to holding the negligent party accountable.
One of the most critical roles a lawyer plays is handling all communications with the insurance companies. Insurers are businesses, and their goal is often to pay out as little as possible. Your attorney will manage these negotiations, protecting you from lowball settlement offers and pressure tactics. They will also meticulously calculate the full value of your claim, which includes not just current medical bills but also future treatment costs, lost wages, and compensation for your pain and suffering. While most car accident cases are settled out of court, if a fair agreement can’t be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to file a lawsuit and represent you in front of a judge.
How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help You
After a car accident, the last thing you want to deal with is a mountain of paperwork, aggressive insurance adjusters, and confusing legal deadlines. This is where a car accident attorney steps in. Their job is to take the entire legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what truly matters: your recovery. Think of them as your professional advocate, working behind the scenes to manage every aspect of your claim. From the moment you hire them, they become your shield and your guide through the complex claims process. They handle the details, fight for your rights, and work to secure the compensation you need to move forward.
Handling Your Case from Start to Finish
When an attorney handles your case from start to finish, it means they manage every single detail. From the initial free consultation, they take over all communication with insurance companies and other parties involved. They will file all necessary paperwork, respect every legal deadline, and build your case from the ground up. This comprehensive support is a core part of what a personal injury lawyer provides. They keep you informed at every stage without overwhelming you with legal jargon. Their goal is to manage the entire process seamlessly, allowing you to dedicate your energy to healing instead of stressing over the complexities of your claim.
Investigating the Accident and Gathering Evidence
Building a strong case starts with a thorough investigation. A skilled car accident lawyer acts like a detective, gathering all the crucial evidence needed to prove what happened and who was at fault. This isn’t just about getting the police report. Your attorney will collect photos and videos from the scene, track down and interview witnesses, obtain your medical records to document your injuries, and consult with experts like accident reconstructionists if needed. A lawyer can help victims gather all of this evidence to build a compelling claim. This meticulous work is fundamental to proving negligence and securing fair compensation for your car accident injuries.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be one of the most frustrating parts of a car accident claim. Adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, which often means offering you less than you deserve. Without proper legal representation, you risk receiving inadequate compensation for your losses. An attorney levels the playing field. They know the tactics insurers use and how to counter them. Your lawyer will accurately calculate your total damages—including current and future medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering—and negotiate aggressively for a settlement that truly covers your needs. They handle all the back-and-forth, protecting you from lowball offers.
Representing You in Court
While most car accident cases are settled out of court, it’s essential to have an attorney who is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. The willingness to go to court sends a strong message to the insurance company that you won’t back down from a fair fight. An experienced injury attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome if litigation becomes the only path forward. If your case proceeds to trial, your lawyer will manage every aspect, from filing the lawsuit and presenting evidence to arguing your case before a judge and jury. This trial-readiness is a powerful advantage that often encourages a much fairer settlement offer.
How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer in Arizona
After a car accident, the attorney you choose to represent you is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. This person will be your advocate, your guide, and your partner in seeking justice. The right lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case and your peace of mind during a stressful time. But with so many options, how do you find the best fit? Focus on a few key areas: their specific experience, what past clients say, how they communicate, their history of success, and how they handle fees.
Look for Experience and Specialization
Not every lawyer is equipped to handle the specifics of a personal injury claim. Just because an attorney is licensed in Arizona doesn’t mean they have the right background for your case. You want a lawyer who specializes in personal injury and, more specifically, car accidents. These attorneys live and breathe Arizona traffic laws, understand the tactics insurance companies use, and know how to build a strong case from the ground up. A specialist will have a much deeper understanding of how to value your claim, from medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
Read Client Reviews and Testimonials
Before you hire anyone, see what their former clients have to say. Reading online reviews and testimonials gives you a candid look into what it’s actually like to work with a law firm. While a firm’s website will highlight its successes, platforms like Google and Avvo provide a more balanced perspective. Look for comments that mention the attorney’s communication style, professionalism, and the case’s outcome. Consistent positive feedback is a great sign that a firm is not only good at what it does but also treats its clients with respect and care throughout the legal process.
Find a Lawyer Who Communicates Well
You should feel comfortable with your attorney and confident in their ability to represent you. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how they communicate. Do they listen to your story without interrupting? Do they explain complex legal terms in a way you can understand? A good lawyer will keep you informed about your case’s progress and be available to answer your questions. You’re building a partnership, and clear, consistent communication is the foundation of that relationship. You need an advocate who is not only a skilled negotiator but also a supportive guide.
Check Their Track Record
Experience is important, but a history of success is what truly matters. Don’t be afraid to ask a potential attorney about their track record with cases similar to yours. While they can’t guarantee a specific outcome, their past results can give you an idea of their competence and ability to secure favorable settlements or verdicts. A firm that is proud of its history will be transparent about its successes. You are looking for a team that has consistently demonstrated its ability to fight for clients and achieve the compensation they deserve for their car accident injuries.
Understand Their Fee Structure
The cost of hiring a lawyer is a major concern for many accident victims, but most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any attorney fees unless they win your case. Typically, the fee is a percentage of your final settlement or award, usually between 33% and 40%. This structure is beneficial because it means your lawyer is motivated to get you the best possible result. During your free consultation, make sure you get a clear explanation of the fee structure and ask if there are any other costs, like court filing fees or expert witness expenses, that you might be responsible for.
What Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
After a car accident, the last thing you should worry about is how you’ll afford legal help. The good news is that most personal injury law firms, including ours, are structured to remove that financial barrier. You can get experienced legal representation without paying any upfront fees. This is possible because
This payment structure means your lawyer’s goals are directly aligned with yours: to get you the best possible outcome. The fee is a percentage of the money recovered for you, so you only pay if your lawyer successfully wins your case through a settlement or court verdict. Your initial meeting to discuss your case is also free. This consultation is a chance for you to understand your options and for us to review the details of your accident, all with no cost or obligation. It’s a straightforward approach that allows you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal work.
How Contingency Fees Work
A contingency fee arrangement is simple: you don’t pay any attorney fees unless we win your case. If you receive a settlement or a court award, our fee is a pre-agreed percentage of that amount. In Arizona, this typically ranges from 33% to 40%. This percentage covers all the legal work we do for you, from investigating the crash and negotiating with insurers to representing you in court if necessary. This model ensures that everyone has access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. We invest our time and resources into your personal injury case because we are confident in our ability to secure the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Other Costs?
Beyond the attorney’s contingency fee, a successful case often involves other expenses. These are the costs of building a strong claim and can include things like court filing fees, the cost of obtaining police reports and medical records, and fees for expert witnesses who might be needed to testify about your injuries or the accident itself. Our firm typically advances these costs on your behalf, so you still don’t have to pay anything out of your own pocket. When your case is resolved, these expenses are simply deducted from your final settlement amount. We believe in full transparency, and we will clearly outline all potential costs in our fee agreement so there are no surprises.
What to Expect During a Free Consultation
Your first meeting with us is a free, no-pressure conversation about your situation. During this initial consultation, we’ll listen to your story and review the details of your car accident. We will explain your legal rights, discuss the strengths of your case, and outline the potential options for moving forward. This is your opportunity to ask us any questions you have about the process, our experience, or how we can help. Think of it as a chance to get to know us and decide if we’re the right fit for you. To get started, you can contact us to schedule your complimentary case evaluation.
The Car Accident Claim Process: Step-by-Step
After a car accident, the path to getting compensation can feel confusing. You’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, and calls from insurance adjusters. It’s a lot to handle. The good news is that the legal process follows a clear structure. While every case has its own unique details, understanding the general steps can make everything feel more manageable.
An experienced attorney will guide you through each phase, handling the complex tasks so you can focus on your recovery. From the initial investigation to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court, your lawyer is your advocate. They work to build a strong case on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected from start to finish. Let’s walk through what you can expect after you decide to file a car accident claim.
Step 1: Investigating and Filing Your Claim
The first thing your attorney will do is launch a thorough investigation into your accident. This is the foundation of your entire claim. They will gather all critical evidence, including the official police report, your medical records, photos and videos from the scene, and statements from any witnesses. This detailed work is essential for proving who was at fault and demonstrating the full extent of your injuries and losses.
It’s important to act quickly. In Arizona, you generally have only two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. Once your lawyer has built a strong case, they will formally file the claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company, officially starting the process.
Step 2: Negotiating a Settlement
Once your claim is filed, the negotiation phase begins. Your lawyer will present the evidence to the insurance company and demand fair compensation for your damages—including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Be prepared for the insurance company to come back with a low initial offer. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible. This is where having an aggressive negotiator on your side is invaluable.
Your attorney will handle all communication and counteroffers, fighting for a settlement that truly covers your needs. Most personal injury cases are resolved at this stage. The timeline can vary, with many settlements taking between two to 18 months to finalize, depending on the case’s complexity.
Step 3: Going to Court (If Needed)
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, the next step is to take your case to court by filing a lawsuit. While most claims are settled before this point, having a lawyer who is ready and willing to go to trial is crucial. This shows the insurance company you are serious about getting the compensation you deserve.
The court process, or litigation, involves several stages, including discovery (where both sides exchange information) and pre-trial motions. Court schedules, especially in busy areas like Phoenix, can vary significantly, which can affect the timeline. Your attorney will manage every aspect of the litigation, representing you in front of a judge and jury if your case goes to trial. The team at AZ Law Now has the courtroom experience to fight for you.
How Long Will My Case Take?
One of the most common questions we hear is, “How long will my case take?” There’s no simple answer, as the timeline depends on several factors. One of the biggest is the severity of your injuries. If you have serious injuries that require long-term medical care, it’s often best to wait until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement before settling. This ensures all your future medical costs are included in your claim.
Other factors include the complexity of your case—a multi-vehicle truck accident will likely take longer than a straightforward rear-end collision—and how willing the insurance company is to negotiate fairly. Your lawyer can give you a more personalized estimate after reviewing the specifics of your situation.
The Advantages of Having a Lawyer on Your Side
After an accident, you might wonder if hiring a lawyer is really necessary. While you can technically handle a claim on your own, having a legal professional in your corner provides significant advantages. An attorney does more than just file paperwork; they become your advocate, working to protect your rights and secure your future while you focus on what matters most—getting better. From dealing with aggressive insurance adjusters to understanding the fine print of state laws, a lawyer takes the weight off your shoulders. They level the playing field, ensuring you have the support and expertise needed to get a fair outcome.
Get the Maximum Compensation You Deserve
One of the most compelling reasons to hire an attorney is the financial outcome. Studies consistently show that accident victims with legal representation receive significantly bigger settlements—on average, 3.5 times more than those who go it alone. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible. An experienced lawyer knows their tactics and how to counter them. We build a comprehensive case that accounts for all your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, future care needs, and pain and suffering. We fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are rightfully owed, not just the first lowball offer the insurer makes.
Let Them Handle the Legal Complexities
The legal system is complicated, and Arizona’s personal injury laws have specific rules and deadlines that can easily trip you up. Without a legal background, you could make a simple mistake that jeopardizes your entire claim. An attorney manages these complexities for you. We handle everything from filing the correct documents on time to interpreting statutes and case law relevant to your situation. We know how to handle the challenges of dealing with insurance companies and opposing counsel, protecting you from tactics designed to get you to settle for less. This allows you to avoid the stress of trying to learn the law while recovering from a car accident.
Reduce Your Stress and Focus on Healing
The time after an accident is overwhelming. You’re likely dealing with physical pain, emotional trauma, mounting medical bills, and the inability to work. Adding a legal battle to that list can feel impossible. When you hire an attorney, you hand over that burden. We take on the phone calls, the negotiations, and the paperwork so you don’t have to. This frees you to focus on healing and putting your life back together. Knowing you have an experienced professional fighting for your best interests provides invaluable peace of mind during a difficult time. Our team at AZ Law Now is here to provide that support.
Gain Access to Experts and Resources
Building a strong personal injury case often requires more than just your side of the story. It requires compelling proof. A seasoned law firm has a network of trusted experts and resources to strengthen your claim. We work with investigators to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and obtain official reports. We may also consult with medical specialists to document the full extent of your injuries or accident reconstructionists to prove fault. The quality of evidence is critical, and we know how to collect and present it effectively. This access to professional resources can make all the difference in proving your case and securing a successful outcome.
Important Arizona Car Accident Laws to Know
After a car accident, you’re dealing with a lot. On top of everything else, you have to work within Arizona’s specific legal framework. Understanding a few key laws can make a huge difference in your ability to get the compensation you need to recover. These rules cover everything from how long you have to file a claim to how insurance works. Getting familiar with them is the first step toward protecting your rights and building a strong case. Let’s walk through the essentials you need to know.
Know the Deadline to File Your Claim
One of the most critical rules is the statute of limitations. In Arizona, you generally have just two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the person responsible. If you miss this two-year window, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and other losses forever. This deadline applies to most personal injury claims, including those from car accidents. It might seem like a long time, but investigating an accident and building a case takes time, so it’s crucial to act quickly. Don’t wait until the last minute to speak with an attorney about your options.
How Fault Is Determined in Arizona
Arizona operates under an “at-fault” system for car accidents. This simply means that the person who is found responsible for causing the crash is also responsible for paying for the resulting damages. However, it’s not always a black-and-white situation. Arizona uses a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Your compensation would just be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your total settlement would be reduced by 20%. Determining fault is a key part of any car accident claim, and it often requires a thorough investigation.
Understanding Arizona’s Insurance Requirements
Every driver in Arizona is required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. The state-mandated minimums are $25,000 for bodily injury or death to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury or death to more than one person, and $15,000 for property damage. While this is the law, these amounts are often not enough to cover the full cost of serious injuries and vehicle repairs. If your expenses exceed the at-fault driver’s policy limits, you may need to explore other options to get the compensation you need. This is a situation where having an experienced attorney can help you understand all of your avenues for recovery. You can find answers to more insurance questions on our FAQ page.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
The moments after a car accident are chaotic and stressful. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but the steps you take right away can have a huge impact on your health and your ability to get fair compensation. Knowing what to do can help you protect yourself physically and financially. If you’ve been in a crash, your priority is to stay safe and get the care you need. From there, focus on gathering key information and getting professional advice. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you through it.
Prioritize Your Safety and Get Medical Care
Your well-being is the most important thing. If you or anyone else is seriously injured, call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Some serious injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, don’t show symptoms right away. Getting a medical evaluation creates an official record that connects your injuries to the crash, which is essential for any future personal injury claim. Don’t wait for the pain to become unbearable. A prompt medical check-up protects your health and strengthens your case by establishing a clear timeline of your injuries from the accident.
Document Everything at the Scene
If you are physically able, try to gather as much information as you can at the scene. This evidence is crucial for building your case. Use your phone to take pictures of everything: the damage to all vehicles, license plates, the accident scene from different angles, and any relevant traffic signs or road conditions. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, but avoid discussing who was at fault. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. Their accounts can be incredibly helpful. Always call the police to the scene so they can create an official report of the car accident.
Know When to Call a Lawyer
You should contact a lawyer as soon as you can, especially before you speak with the other driver’s insurance company. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, which often means trying to settle your claim for as little as possible. They might ask for a recorded statement to find reasons to deny or reduce your claim. Having an attorney on your side from the beginning ensures your rights are protected. A lawyer can handle all communications with the insurance companies, manage the legal paperwork, and give you the space to focus on your recovery. Don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation to understand your options.
Top Car Accident Law Firms in Arizona
Finding the right legal team can feel like a huge task, especially when you’re trying to recover from an accident. The good news is that Arizona has many skilled attorneys who focus on car accident cases. The right firm for you will depend on your specific situation, your communication style, and what you need from a legal partner. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of some well-regarded car accident law firms in the state. Think of this as a starting point for your own research.
Each of these firms has a track record of helping people through the legal process after a crash. Some are large, established firms with decades of collective experience, while others might be smaller, more specialized practices. The key is to find a team that aligns with your needs. As you explore your options, remember to look for a team that not only has the right experience but also makes you feel heard and supported. A free consultation is a great way to get a feel for a firm and ask important questions about their approach, their fee structure, and how they plan to handle your case. This initial meeting is your opportunity to gauge their communication style and determine if you feel comfortable placing your trust in them.
AZ Law Now Injury Attorneys
At AZ Law Now, our focus is on providing aggressive and swift representation for people injured in accidents. We understand that the aftermath of a crash affects every part of your life, so we take on the responsibility for your economic, social, and emotional well-being. Our team is dedicated to helping you recover lost income and get the justice you deserve so you can move forward. We handle all types of car accident cases throughout West Phoenix and Arizona, ensuring you have experienced advocates fighting for you every step of the way. We believe in taking decisive action to get you results as quickly as possible, letting you focus on what matters most: your recovery.
Gallagher & Kennedy
Gallagher & Kennedy is one of Phoenix’s larger and more established personal injury law firms. With over four decades in practice, their team brings a significant amount of collective experience to the table. They specialize in car accident cases and are equipped to manage every phase of a claim, from the initial investigation all the way through to a lawsuit if necessary. For clients, working with a large firm like this often means having access to extensive resources and a deep bench of legal expertise. Their long-standing presence in the community speaks to their reputation and ability to handle complex personal injury claims for clients across Arizona.
Knapp & Roberts
The team at Knapp & Roberts is another Phoenix-based law firm that concentrates on car accident cases. They make it a point to handle all aspects of a claim, which can be a huge relief for clients who are already dealing with injuries and stress. Their process includes everything from conducting the initial accident investigation to negotiating with insurance companies and, if a fair settlement can’t be reached, taking the case to court. They also offer free consultations, giving you a no-pressure opportunity to discuss your case and understand your legal options before making any commitments. This approach allows you to get professional advice right from the start.
Hutzler Law
Hutzler Law is a Phoenix firm that, like many personal injury practices, operates on a contingency-fee basis. This is a critical feature for many accident victims because it means you don’t have to pay any attorney fees upfront. Instead, the firm’s payment is “contingent” on them winning your case. If they secure a settlement or a court award for you, their fee is taken as a percentage of that amount. This structure makes high-quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. It also means the lawyer’s interests are directly aligned with yours: they only get paid if you do.
Phillips Law Group
Phillips Law Group is another prominent firm in Arizona that handles car accident claims. When considering any firm, it’s important to understand how they structure their fees. Most personal injury attorneys use a contingency fee model, but the specifics can vary. During an initial consultation with a firm like Phillips Law Group, you can get clarity on their fee structure and any other potential costs associated with your case, such as fees for expert witnesses or court filings. Having this conversation early on ensures there are no surprises down the road and helps you make an informed decision about who you want to represent you.
How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Lawyer
Walking into a lawyer’s office for the first time can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. This initial consultation is your opportunity to share your story, understand your options, and decide if the attorney is the right partner for you. A little preparation goes a long way in making this meeting productive and easing your nerves. By gathering the right documents and thinking through your questions, you can walk in feeling confident and ready to take the next step. Think of it as the first move toward getting the support you need to focus on your recovery.
What to Bring to Your Consultation
To give your potential lawyer the clearest picture of your situation, it’s helpful to bring as much documentation as you have. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything—just bring what’s available. Your attorney can help you gather the rest later. A strong file helps them build the foundation for your personal injury claim from day one.
Here’s a quick checklist of what to gather:
- The official police or accident report
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage
- Contact information for any witnesses
- All medical records, bills, and receipts related to your injuries
- Information exchanged with the other driver, including their insurance details
- Any letters or emails you’ve received from insurance companies
Questions You Should Ask Your Lawyer
Your first meeting is a two-way street. While the lawyer is learning about your case, you should be learning about them. You need to feel comfortable and confident in their ability to represent you. Asking direct questions is the best way to find out if it’s a good fit. You want an advocate who not only has the right experience but also communicates in a way that makes you feel heard and respected.
Consider asking these questions:
- Have you handled car accident cases similar to mine before?
- What is your initial assessment of my case?
- Who will be my main point of contact at the firm?
- How will you keep me updated on the progress of my case?
- What is your fee structure?
Clarify the Next Steps for Your Case
You should leave your consultation with a clear understanding of what happens next. A good attorney will outline the immediate steps and give you a general roadmap for the legal process. Knowing what to expect can significantly reduce the stress and uncertainty that often follows an accident. They should be able to explain how they will manage the details so you can concentrate on healing.
Before you leave, make sure you know the answers to these questions:
- What is the plan for gathering any remaining evidence?
- How will you handle communications with the insurance companies?
- What are the potential outcomes for my case?
- What do you need from me to move forward?
Understanding these next steps will help you feel more in control as you begin the journey toward justice and recovery. You can also review our firm’s FAQ page for more answers to common questions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need a lawyer if the accident seems minor? It’s a good idea to at least speak with a lawyer, even if the accident appears minor. Some injuries, like whiplash, don’t show up right away, and what seems like minor vehicle damage can hide more serious mechanical problems. Insurance companies often try to settle these claims quickly for a low amount before the full extent of your injuries and damages is known. A consultation can help you understand your rights and ensure you aren’t settling for less than you deserve.
What should I do if the other driver’s insurance company calls me? You can expect a call from the other driver’s insurance adjuster soon after the accident. It’s important to be careful with what you say. You can confirm basic facts like your name and contact information, but you should politely decline to give a recorded statement or discuss the details of the accident or your injuries. Simply tell them you will be speaking with an attorney and will have your representative contact them. This protects you from having your words twisted or used against you later.
Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident? Yes, you can. Arizona follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partly to blame for the crash. Your final settlement or award will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you were found to be 10% at fault for the accident, your total compensation would be reduced by 10%. An attorney can help protect you from being assigned an unfair amount of blame.
How long will it take to resolve my car accident case? The timeline for a car accident case varies widely because it depends on several factors. The most significant is the severity of your injuries. It’s often best to wait until you have reached maximum medical improvement before settling, so all your medical costs are accounted for. Other factors include the complexity of the accident and how willing the insurance company is to negotiate a fair settlement. A straightforward case might settle in a few months, while a more complex one could take over a year.
What happens if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or not enough to cover my bills? This is a stressful but unfortunately common situation. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or their policy limits are too low to cover your expenses, you may be able to file a claim through your own insurance policy. This would fall under your Uninsured Motorist (UM) or Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage, if you have it. An attorney can review your policy and help you through the process of filing a UM/UIM claim to get the compensation you need.