Best Car Accident Lawyers in Tempe

FAQs

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

  You can dial 480-350-8311 for your non-emergency concerns in Tempe, Arizona.

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

  You can get a copy of your police report in Tempe by filling out the Request for Police Records Form. After filling out the form, you can submit it to the Records Section of the Tempe Police Department at 120 East 5th Street.

• Who can you hold liable for car accidents in Tempe?

  In addition to holding negligent drivers liable for car accidents, you can also file cases against car owners who permitted the driver to use the car or a liquor licensee who sold alcohol to an underage individual or adult who was already drunk. Government entities that fail to maintain proper roadway designs can also be held accountable.

• What are the leading causes of car accidents in Tempe?

  Driver negligence, including speeding, drunk driving, lack of concentration, and disobeying traffic rules, is the leading cause of car collisions in Tempe. Another reason for auto accidents is when drivers forget or intentionally avoid maintaining their vehicles. In addition, bad weather conditions, vehicle defects, and faulty road designs can cause car accidents.

• Is there a time limit for filing car accident claims in Tempe, Arizona?

  Yes, there is a time limit when filing claims in Tempe. According to Arizona's law of statute of limitation, you can only file injury claims within two years after the car accident date. If you exceed the statute of limitation, your claims or lawsuit against the at-fault drivers will be dismissed.

• What should you do after a car accident in Tempe?

  The first thing you need to do after a car accident in Tempe is to call the police to get an official record of the incident. Next is to exchange contact information with the other drivers involved and get their insurance details. Then, what you need to do is to document the accident, or if you are seriously injured, ask a trusted person to take photos of the road conditions and gather statements from witnesses. Importantly, seek medical treatments for your injuries.

• What are the restrictions for teenage drivers in Tempe?

  Arizona has a Teenage Driver Safety Act that restricts individuals under 18 from driving on public highways between 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. unless they are going to or from work. Teenage drivers are also exempted from the curfew if they are with a parent or a legal guardian with a class A, B, C, or D license. Additionally, the law states that teenage drivers must carry only one passenger except with a sibling, parent, or legal guardian.

• 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.