Understanding how accident claims work in Arizona can help injured individuals make informed decisions and protect important evidence.
What Should You Do After an Accident?
The first priority following a collision should always be safety and medical attention. Once immediate concerns have been addressed, preserving information about the accident can become important.
Useful steps may include:
• Reporting the accident to the appropriate authorities
• Seeking medical evaluation for injuries
• Photographing vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and the accident scene
• Gathering contact information from witnesses
• Keeping medical bills and treatment records
• Documenting missed work and other financial losses
• Saving correspondence received from insurance companies
These records can help establish both what happened and how the accident affected the injured person.
How Fault Can Affect an Arizona Accident Claim
Arizona uses a comparative negligence system. Under A.R.S. § 12 2505, a claimant's damages can be reduced according to the claimant's percentage of fault that contributed to the injury. The claim is not automatically barred simply because the injured person may share some responsibility.
For that reason, determining what happened during an accident can be important. Evidence such as photographs, witness statements, police reports, medical records, and other documentation may help establish responsibility.
When Should You Contact a Lawyer?
Not every accident requires legal representation. However, professional guidance may be useful when an accident results in significant injuries, disputed liability, substantial financial losses, or difficult insurance negotiations.
Someone looking for a Phoenix lawyer for accident claims should consider an attorney who understands Arizona personal injury law and has experience evaluating the specific type of accident involved.
A lawyer can review available evidence, explain potential options, communicate with insurers, and help an injured person understand the potential advantages and challenges of pursuing a claim.
Insurance Coverage Can Become Complicated
Insurance questions can arise when the responsible driver has limited coverage or no insurance. Arizona law addresses uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage under A.R.S. § 20 259.01. The statute establishes requirements concerning the availability and operation of these types of coverage, subject to applicable policy terms and circumstances.
Reviewing the applicable insurance policies can therefore be an important part of evaluating an accident claim.
What Losses May Be Considered?
Depending on the circumstances, an accident claim may involve losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, future medical treatment, and damages associated with physical pain and emotional suffering.
The potential value of a claim depends on its individual facts. The severity of the injuries, treatment required, effect on employment, available insurance coverage, and evidence regarding fault can all be relevant.
Pay Attention to Legal Deadlines
Arizona generally provides a two year limitation period for actions involving personal injuries under A.R.S. § 12 542, although exceptions and different deadlines can apply to particular situations.
Because deadlines can affect the ability to pursue a claim, accident victims should avoid assuming that they have unlimited time to take legal action.
Moving Forward After an Accident
Recovering from an accident can take time and may involve medical treatment, financial concerns, insurance communications, and uncertainty about the future.
Harris Injury Law helps accident victims understand their legal options and navigate the claims process following an injury. A careful review of the circumstances can help determine what evidence may be needed and what steps may be appropriate.
For anyone dealing with an accident injury in Phoenix, obtaining medical care, preserving important records, and learning about available legal options can be valuable steps toward protecting their interests.
