Best Car Accident Lawyers in Maricopa

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number of Maricopa's police department is (520) 568-3673.

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

  In several instances, the traffic accident reports provided by the Sheriff's Office or Maricopa County can be obtained through its partner online, LexisNexis BuyCrash.

• What are the two key statutes which apply to claims for personal injury in Maricopa?

  In Arizona, where Maricopa is located, the key statutes governing personal injury are the Arizona Revised Statutes sections 12-2505 and 12-542.

  • Section 12-2505 establishes Arizona state’s comparative negligence law which states that victims of car accidents may pursue partial injury compensation claims in the event that they are partly to blame for the vehicular collision.
  • Section 12-542 establishes the state’s statute of limitations for motor vehicle accident claims.

• What is the statute of limitations for claims for car accidents in Maricopa?

  The state of Arizona has established two years as the statute of limitations for car accidents. This law, stipulated in the Arizona Revised Statute sections 12-542, governs Maricopa car collision cases. It states that personal injury victims have a maximum of two years to file claims for accident damages. For families whose loved ones were involved in fatal car accidents, the two-year count starts from the victim’s date of death.

• How many car accidents occur in Maricopa County?

  The year 2021 saw the most recorded car accidents in Maricopa County at 86,687. In these accidents, there were 35,488 injured victims and 594 fatalities. The economic loss sustained in these collisions was approximately 11.563 billion dollars. Maricopa consistently has the most car accident incidents, injuries, and fatalities in the state of Arizona each year. This is unsurprising, given the fact that the area has 4.5 million residents, representing 62% of the state’s entire population.

• What do you need to do when you have been involved in a car accident within Maricopa?

  As a victim of a car accident which occurred in Arizona, including Maricopa County, you should stay calm, exchange contact information with the driver of the other vehicle, and immediately call 911 in order to report the accident. After leaving the accident site, proceed immediately to the hospital to obtain medical care. File a claim with the insurer of the other driver once you are ready, but consult a car accident attorney prior to accepting any settlement.

• What is the Hands-Off Law of Arizona and how does it affect drivers in Maricopa?

  Arizona’s Hands-Off Law took effect in January 2021 and makes the use of stand-alone electronic devices illegal while driving in Maricopa. An exception to this rule is if the hands-free mode is used. This law affects the use of devices such as cell phones and tablets as well as music and gaming devices. This statewide ban supersedes 26 local ordinances.

• 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.