Best Car Accident Lawyers in Tucson

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for Tucson is (520) 791-4444.

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

  Police reports may be obtained through conventional mail from the Records Section of the Tucson Police Department, located at 270 S. Stone Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701-1917. Requests may also be made online with forms downloaded from https://www.tucsonaz.gov/police/records-requests and sent to tpdpublicrecords@tucsonaz.gov. Collision reports are purchasable online from Crashdocs.

• What are the initial steps one must take after a car accident in Tucson?

  One must document the accident scene and take multiple photos of the incident, taking notes and pictures of details like whether the airbags deployed correctly and which sections of the vehicle sustained damage. The claimant must also immediately seek medical and legal assistance in Tucson, the former to seek treatment for non-apparent injuries and the latter to provide representation against opposing insurers.

• What are the usual causes of car accidents in Tucson?

  Besides negligence on the part of angry or distracted drivers, motor vehicle mishaps result from malfunction of parts and dangerous road conditions. Hazardous roads also count as some of the dangers leading to car accidents, and crash victims may file suit against the government entities responsible for this. On the other hand, faulty products cause a loss of control and lead to crashes.

• What damages may one recover in a car accident case in Tucson?

  In Tucson, the plaintiff may recover the expenses incurred while seeking medical treatment and future expenses linked to the accident. These treatments range from surgical procedures to alternative chiropractic procedures. Damages covering lost income in the present and later times are also obtainable. In addition, the claimant may seek compensation for the repair of their vehicle.

• What are the usual tactics insurers employ to deny car accident claims in Tucson?

  Insurance providers in Tucson often employ a three D's strategy: delay, deny, defend. Insurers are inclined to prolong the claims process, deny payment for soft tissue injuries, and defend their interests by downplaying the victim's injuries. They also tend to take the competing parties' word against each other and use this as a basis to claim that negligence could not be ascertained, and thus, no one is entitled to benefits.

• Should victims in Tucson choose a lawyer who settles claims or one who goes to court?

  It is preferable to choose a Tucson attorney who is willing to go to court. Settlements are convenient, but insurers are prone to make conservative offers when they know a lawyer does not want to litigate. Insurance companies tend to make lowball offers in settlements, and if the lawyer accepts this, the client may not be able to get fair compensation.

• 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.