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Surprise Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents happen every second of every day, but people don’t leave their homes expecting to get into an accident. Most people know that driving is dangerous, which is why they do their part to be safe drivers, and they expect the same from others on the road. Unfortunately, people make mistakes, and those mistakes can be incredibly costly. Car accidents have the potential to cause serious and life-altering injuries.

Our specialized personal injury attorneys at Jensen Phelan Law Firm have seen how devastating and traumatic car accidents can be, which is why they do everything in their power to help you minimize the harm (by good medical care suggestions, prompt responses, answering your questions, preventing common mistakes) so you can obtain fair compensation on behalf of our clients based on our experience since 1974. Our car accident attorneys are determined to hold negligent parties accountable for their actions so our clients recover the financial compensation they’re owed to cope with the impacts of the accident. 

Important Car Accident Law in Arizona

In Arizona, personal injury laws related to car accidents are governed by both state laws and common law principles. Here are some key laws to keep in mind:

Statute of Limitations

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from car accidents is generally two years from the date of the accident. Therefore, it’s essential to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the accident to make sure you retain the right to receive fair compensation.

Comparative Fault

Arizona follows a pure comparative fault system, which means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation award will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For instance, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your damages will be reduced by 20%. Retaining an attorney is crucial to making sure you’re protected against any tactics insurance adjusters may employ to reduce or deny your claim.

Insurance Requirements

Arizona law requires drivers to carry liability insurance coverage with minimum limits of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 per accident for property damage. However, it is recommended to carry higher coverage limits to protect yourself in case of a serious accident.

No-Fault Insurance

Arizona is not a no-fault insurance state, which means that fault is determined in each accident and the at-fault driver is responsible for paying damages. However, drivers can purchase optional personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which can help cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

If you are injured in a car accident in Arizona, it is recommended to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your rights and legal options.

How to Prove the Other Drive Was Responsible for the Accident

Proving fault in an Arizona car accident claim requires evidence and a thorough investigation. Here are some steps that may help you establish the other driver’s fault:

  • Gather evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident, including photos, witness statements, and contact information for other drivers involved. Also, take note of any traffic signs, signals, or road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
  • Report the accident: Call the police and report the accident to your insurance company. The police report can be a valuable piece of evidence in establishing fault.
  • Seek medical attention: Get medical attention for any injuries you sustained in the accident, even if they seem minor. Medical records can help demonstrate the severity of your injuries and the costs associated with your medical treatment.
  • Consult with an attorney: An experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence, assess the strength of your case, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
  • Use expert witnesses: In some cases, expert witnesses may be necessary to establish fault, especially in cases involving complex issues like accident reconstruction or vehicle defects.

Establishing fault in an Arizona car accident claim can be complicated and requires a thorough investigation. It is recommended to seek the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney to help you understand your legal options and protect your rights.

Why an Attorney is Beneficial After a Car Accident

Retaining an attorney for a car accident claim can provide several benefits, including:

  • Legal expertise: Personal injury attorneys can guide you through the legal process, explain your rights and options, and help you make informed decisions about your case.
  • Investigation and evidence gathering: Attorneys have access to resources and experts who can investigate the accident scene, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. 
  • Negotiation with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. An attorney can negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf, pushing for a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
  • Calculating damages: An attorney can help you calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with the accident.
  • Trial experience: While most car accident claims are settled out of court, some cases may go to trial. An attorney with trial experience can represent you in court, presenting your case to a judge and jury and advocating for your rights.

Overall, a car accident attorney can provide valuable guidance, advocacy, and support throughout the car accident claim process, helping you achieve a fair and just outcome.

Reach Out to a Skilled Car Accident Lawyer at Jensen Phelan Law Firm

Jensen Phelan Law Firm is a personal injury firm dedicated to helping accident victims and their families fight for and secure fair compensation. Our skilled and experienced car accident lawyers have over 65 years of experience to help you build a strong car accident claim and pursue the financial compensation you are owed and deserve. 

At Jensen Phelan Law Firm, we offer a free assessment of your case and will explain your rights to you, providing you with the tools to obtain a successful settlement. To find out more about how we can help you, complete our online contact form or call (928) 778-2660.