How Car Accident Compensation Works in Arizona
The Anti-Lawyer Lawyer will fight for the best outcome possible
If you were hurt in a car accident caused by the negligence of another driver, you have the right to seek financial compensation. But it can be a very confusing and complicated process. Dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating. That’s why you need an experienced car accident attorney on your side if you’ve been hurt in Gilbert or anywhere in Maricopa County.
Attorney Byron Browne of Browne Law Group can handle every aspect of your case. He knows how to build strong cases that insurance companies have to take seriously. He knows how to fight back against their attempts to pay you less. Our firm takes a no B.S. approach to car accident claims. No bull. No nonsense. Just results.
What are the car insurance requirements in Arizona?
All drivers in Arizona are required to have car insurance. The minimum amounts for liability coverage are:
- $25,000 per person bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident bodily injury
- $15,000 per accident property damage
Many accidents result in much more damage than the minimum requirements cover. So it’s a good idea to buy insurance coverage with higher policy limits. You also have choice to add optional coverage, such as:
- Collision – This coverage helps pay for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in a collision with another vehicle or object.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) – This can give you protection if you are involved in an accident with a driver who either doesn't have insurance (uninsured) or doesn't have enough to cover all of your damages (underinsured).
- Medical payments (MedPay) – This coverage can help you pay for medical expenses resulting from a car accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Is Arizona a fault or no-fault state?
Arizona is a “fault” state. The driver who is found to be at fault for an accident is responsible for covering damages. These damages can include current and future medical expenses related to injuries, lost wages, property damage, and other damages such as pain and suffering. The at-fault driver's insurance typically pays for these costs. Injured parties can pursue a claim with the insurance company. Sometimes, it’s necessary to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver in order to recover fair compensation.
What should I do after a car accident?
It’s important to take steps to help protect your health and safety – and your right to seek financial compensation.
- Call the police. Officers from the state police or a local law enforcement agency can secure the accident scene and get help for the injured. Officers will also conduct an initial investigation and complete an accident report.
- Get medical attention. You should see a doctor, even if you seem to feel fine. Some injuries such as concussions have delayed symptoms. A doctor can begin treatment and document your injuries.
- Take photos and video. This can provide documentation of the accident. Try to get photos of the damage to each vehicle, nearby traffic signals, and any visible injuries you have.
- Get information. Ask for the other driver’s name, as well as contact information and insurance information. Write down the license plate, make, and model of the other vehicle.
- Get legal advice. Talk to a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
What if the accident was partly my fault?
Under Arizona’s comparative negligence system, you can still recover financial compensation from another party, no matter how of the fault was yours. However, any damages you are awarded may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, let’s say you were awarded $100,000 in a car accident, but you were found to be 40% at fault. Your total recovery would be $60,000.
Insurance companies are very familiar with the comparative negligence system and will try to put as much of the blame as possible on you. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced car accident lawyer.
How much is my case worth?
There is no simple answer to this question, as the amount you can recover depends on many different factors. These factors include the severity of your injuries, the strength of the case, insurance policy limits, and comparative negligence. A lawyer can give you a better idea of what you can reasonably expect if you pursue your claim.
Not your typical Arizona car accident lawyer
Attorney Byron Browne understands the impact that injuries from a car accident can have on you and your family. Insurance companies have the advantage after a crash, and they won’t hesitate to use it. We can help you fight back. Byron Browne builds strong cases based on facts. He takes a tough stance in negotiations and is committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.
If you were injured in a car accident in Gilbert or anywhere in Maricopa County, learn more about how we can help. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. Byron Browne can review the details of your accident, discuss your legal options, and answer any questions you have. There’s no cost and no obligation.