If you’ve been injured in an accident in Phoenix, you probably have a lot of questions about your rights, your case, and what to expect. The legal process after an accident can feel overwhelming, especially while you’re focused on healing.
This FAQ guide answers some of the most common questions about personal injury law in Arizona so you can feel more informed and prepared.
What Is a Personal Injury Case?
A personal injury case arises when someone suffers harm because of another person’s negligence, carelessness, or intentional wrongful actions.
Common examples include:
- Car crashes
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Dog bites
- Workplace accidents
- Construction accidents
- Medical malpractice
If your injuries were caused by someone else’s failure to act responsibly, you may have a valid claim for compensation.
What Should I Do Immediately After an Accident?
Remember to do the following after an accident:
- Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out. Some injuries take time to show symptoms.
- Call the police – For car accidents, always file a report. The report can serve as valuable evidence.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Collect information – Get the names and contact details of the other parties and any witnesses.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer – An attorney can protect your rights and handle communication with insurance companies.
The steps you take right after an accident can make a big difference in your health and your case.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Arizona?
In Arizona, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. However, there are some exceptions (for example, claims against government entities have shorter deadlines). Speaking with a lawyer as soon as possible ensures you don’t miss important filing dates.
What Compensation Can I Recover in a Personal Injury Case?
Compensation awarded after a personal injury is designed to make you whole and may include:
- Medical expenses – Past, current, and future
- Lost wages – Including reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous work
- Property damage – Such as car repairs or replacement
Pain and suffering – Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress - Loss of enjoyment of life – If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed
Every case is unique, so the amount you recover will depend on the specific circumstances of your injuries and the impact on your life.
Do I Have to Go to Court for a Personal Injury Case?
Most personal injury cases in Phoenix are settled outside of court through negotiations with the insurance company. A settlement allows you to receive compensation without a lengthy trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, your attorney may recommend taking the case to court to protect your rights.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Most Phoenix personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything up front. Instead, your lawyer only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you, usually as a percentage of the settlement or verdict.
Can I Recover Compensation if I’m Partially at Fault for My Injuries?
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you could still recover $80,000.
How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Take?
The timeline varies. Some cases settle quickly, while others, especially those involving severe injuries or complex disputes, may take longer.
Factors that affect the length of a case include:
- The severity of your injuries and recovery time
- The willingness of the insurance company to negotiate
- Whether the case goes to trial
A skilled personal injury attorney can help you throughout the entire process.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help with My Case?
A skilled Phoenix personal injury lawyer can:
- Investigate your accident and gather evidence
- Work with medical experts to understand your injuries
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
- File a lawsuit if a fair settlement isn’t offered
- Guide you through each step so you can focus on recovery
Having someone on your side who understands Arizona law can give you peace of mind and improve your chances of success.
Contact the Phoenix Personal Injury Lawyer at Impact Legal Car Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Personal injury claims can feel overwhelming, but knowing your rights is the first step toward recovery. After an accident, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. An attorney can protect your interests, fight for fair compensation, and give you the support you need during a difficult time.
Impact Legal Car Accident Attorneys is dedicated to helping accident victims in Phoenix get the justice they deserve. If you have more questions or are ready to discuss your case, contact us today for a free consultation.
