Car accidents are unfortunate events that can have serious physical, emotional, and legal consequences. In Arizona, understanding your legal rights after a car accident is critical to ensure you receive fair compensation. With the help of an experienced attorney like Jeff GOULD, the Attorney In YOUR Corner, you can better navigate the intricacies of the legal system concerning a car accident. Here are five essential things you need to know about your legal rights after a car accident to protect yourself in Arizona.
Table of Contents
1. Arizona’s Fault-Based System
As we’ve spoken about before, Arizona operates under a fault-based system for most accidents. This means that the party responsible for the accident is also responsible for covering the damages. In legal terms, this is known as a “TORT” system. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Arizona, the at-fault party’s insurance typically covers your damages. Arizona law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, including a statutory minimum coverage amount for bodily injury and property damage. However, insurance claims can be difficult and complex – gathering evidence and building a strong case to establish fault and recover damages is crucial. Fortunately, Jeff GOULD Law has experience with dealing with insurance claims such as these for over 25+ years.
2. Statute of Limitations
As with most accidents, time is of the essence when it comes to filing a personal injury claim after a car accident. Arizona has a statute of limitation deadline for filing a lawsuit. For most personal injury cases, including car accidents, the statute of limitations, is generally two years from the accident date.
It’s important to be aware of this time constraint, as failing to file within the specified period of time may effect your legal rights after a car accident, and any claim may be time-barred forever by the Statute of Limitations. Promptly consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure you meet all deadlines and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. Jeff Gould Law offers FREE initial legal consultations, and we recommend you contact us sooner rather than later!
3. Comparative Negligence
Arizona also follows a comparative negligence law when determining compensation in personal injury cases. When it comes to your legal rights after a car accident, this rule allows for the assignment of fault (up to 100%) among multiple parties involved in the accident. You may still be eligible for compensation even if you are partially at fault.
Your percentage of fault will lessen the compensation you receive. If you are found to be 20% responsible for the total damage, and the damage total amounted to $10,000, your compensation would likely be reduced to $8,000. Understanding how the comparative negligence rule relates to your legal rights after a car accident and how it applies to your case is crucial for managing expectations and building a strong legal strategy.
4. Injuries & Damages
After a car accident, seeking medical attention for any injuries should always be the top priority. This is essential for your safety and well-being and establishes a critical connection known as “proximate causation” between the accident and your injuries in the eyes of the law. Delaying medical treatment can jeopardize your claim, as insurance companies may argue that you waited an unreasonable amount of time to seek medical attention and/or that your injuries may not be a direct result of the accident.
In addition to physical injuries, there are other compensations you may be entitled to, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Documenting all aspects of the damage is vital to building a solid case. This includes keeping a paper trail of medical bills, repairs, and any other repercussions of the accident. Gathering evidence plays an important roll in protecting your legal rights after a car accident.
5. Dealing With Insurance Companies
Navigating the intricacies of insurance companies is a critical but often intimidating aspect of the aftermath of an accident. While insurance companies are “supposed” to provide compensation for valid claims, they DO NOT. Their primary goal is often to minimize your injury damages. It’s essential to be cautious when communicating with insurance adjusters and avoid accepting any settlement offers without thoroughly evaluating your case or before you reach medical stability.
With proper evidence and documentation, Jeff GOULD Law can help navigate your legal rights after a car accident, including engaging with insurance companies. As an experienced personal injury attorney, it is our job to provide guidance and ensure you do not inadvertently compromise your legal rights after a car accident.
The Importance of Legal Counsel
Being aware of your legal rights after a car accident in Arizona is essential for protecting yourself and securing fair compensation. From understanding the fault-based system to navigating comparative negligence, each aspect plays an important role in the outcome of your case. If you find yourself involved in a car accident, seeking legal advice promptly can make a significant difference in your ability to recover damages and move forward after a burdensome experience on the road.
Don’t DELAY: Call Jeff GOULD Law, the Attorney In YOUR Corner – TODAY!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this blog/site is not intended to be legal advice. It is for general informational use only. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your situation. Further, this information does not create an attorney-client relationship.