Best Car Accident Lawyers in Flagstaff

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Flagstaff, Arizona?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Flagstaff Police Department is (928) 774-1414.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Flagstaff, Arizona?

  Police reports can be requested in person, by mail, or online. To make a request, include a report number (if you have one), the date, time, and place of the incident, and the name(s) of the people involved. You can ask for reports on our online services page or by sending a letter to: Flagstaff Police Department ATTN: Records Division 911 E Sawmill Road Flagstaff, AZ 86001

• What proof is required to win a car accident case in Flagstaff?

  To prove your auto accident claim in Flagstaff, you will need to show that the other driver caused the accident and that your injuries were caused by their actions or lack of care. Some common examples of reckless or negligent driving include not stopping at a red light; distracted driving (texting, reading emails, or making a phone call); speeding or driving too fast for the conditions of the road; driving while intoxicated or high on drugs; and crossing in front of oncoming traffic.

• What are the most dangerous interstates in Flagstaff?

  Many Flagstaff residents and visitors use Interstate 40 and 17 to get into or out of the city. Since the speed limits are higher on Interstates 17 and 40, car accidents there tend to cause more serious and life-threatening injuries. Several car accidents also happen on Arizona State Routes 89 and 89a.

• Do you need a personal injury lawyer in Flagstaff after a car accident?

  If you or anyone else was hurt in a car accident in Flagstaff, it is advised that you hire a lawyer right away. Your car accident claim could get complicated quickly. The insurance company may try to get you to say something or settle for less than you deserve. Don't agree to either one until you have talked to a lawyer.

• Can you sue more than one person for damages after a car accident in Flagstaff?

  Most car accidents involve more than one vehicle, which makes it more likely that the person who was hurt will have multiple claims against more than one party. In Flagstaff, liability can be either shared or separate, but never both. The court will decide how much each defendant is to blame and then decide who will pay for the damages. Defendants may try to shift blame by saying that the other party is "more" to blame. This can slow down the trial and add more defendants.

• Is it alright to post about your car accident in Flagstaff on your social media accounts?

  You should never post about a car accident on social media, no matter how harmless it seems. After an accident with a car, motorcycle, or truck, your insurance company can look at your social media accounts, including private posts. Take pictures at the scene of the accident to keep proof for your claim, but don't post them on social media. Do not talk about your car accident on social media sites. When it's safe, take pictures with your phone and send them to your Flagstaff lawyer instead.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.