Best Car Accident Lawyers in Prescott

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Prescott is (928) 445-3131.

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

  To obtain a copy of a police report in Prescott, contact the Records Section at (928) 777-1988, and they will provide you with guidelines.

• What are the methods you can use to prove that the at-fault driver was distracted in a car accident in Prescott?

  If you believe that another driver's distraction caused your Prescott car accident, you must find evidence that he or she was at fault. Here are some methods you can use to prove the other party's fault: Through police report documentation, admission of fault by the driver, written and signed statements of witnesses, passengers, or bystanders, photo and/or video footage, and cellphone records.

• Is it necessary to call the police after a car accident in Prescott?

  According to Arizona Revised Statute 28-666, a driver involved in a car accident that causes injury or death must immediately notify the local police department, the county sheriff's office, or the nearest highway patrol office. Any Prescott car accident resulting in property damage in excess of $2,000 must be reported. Furthermore, if you believe the other driver violated any traffic laws that contributed to the accident, you must involve the police. You can establish fault for the crash and complete a car insurance claim more easily with the assistance of the police, as they can create a police report containing all important details about the wreck.

• Can the city of Prescott be held responsible for a car accident?

  Arizona's public roads fall under the jurisdiction and responsibility of the government. Part of the government's responsibility is to maintain public roads. This means that if it is proven that the car accident resulted from poor road maintenance, such as a lack of visibility of cracks and potholes, the city government of Prescott can be held liable, and the parties involved can sue for negligence.

• Who will be accountable for an accident in Prescott caused by a stolen car?

  In Prescott car accident cases, the at-fault driver is usually held liable for the cost of injuries. However, if the vehicle involved is stolen, neither the owner nor the insurer will be held liable. Only if the car owner allowed his or her vehicle to be borrowed will the owner be held liable. The main person liable for losses caused by their negligence is the thief of the stolen vehicle. However, the thief's insurer may refuse coverage due to illegal activity or may not have insurance at all.

• Is there a specific car repair shop in Prescott that you must visit after a car accident?

  Arizona Revised Statutes Section 20-468 states that a person in the state has the freedom to choose which repair facility to bring their car to after an accident. However, it must be subject to the insurance company's rights to receive a "loss or property damage" notice in accordance with the terms of the insurance policy. This means you can go to any car repair shop in Prescott of your choice.

• 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.