Best Car Accident Lawyers in Chandler, AZ

FAQs

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

  480-782-4130 is the Chandler police's non-emergency number.

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

  Start with filling out the Request for Police Record form that can be downloaded from the department's website, mailed to you, or secured at the Main Station at 250 E. Chicago St. You can also get a copy of the report online at the websites of Crashdocs or BuyCrash. Request processing time is usually around seven to 10 business days. Call the records unit 24/7 at 480-782-4001.

• Can a partially at-fault driver still recover compensation for a car accident in Chandler?

  Yes. If a driver is found to be partly responsible for a car accident in Chandler, they can still obtain financial compensation under the state's pure comparative negligence law. The said law does not prohibit claimants from financial recovery, although the compensation may be reduced relative to the degree of fault the driver has contributed.

• What risk factors do drivers in Chandler face?

  Car accident risks that challenge drivers in Chandler include harsh weather conditions, tire blowouts or car part defects, animal crossing, road construction, potholes, and low light at night. In addition, drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs commonly cause car accidents in the area. There are also risks from drivers who violate traffic laws through tailgating, overspeeding, and beating the red light.

• When is the best time to hire a car accident lawyer in Chandler?

  It is common for individuals and families of those involved in accidents to consult with a lawyer on the same day they got into an accident in Chandler. Legal professionals in a law firm manage the communications and claims processing the moment their services are hired, thereby improving the chances of securing a better outcome in the legal process.

• What is the minimum car accident insurance coverage that drivers in Chandler have?

  As required by law, each driver in the Chandler area must carry the minimum state coverage enumerated below that can be used should an accident happen:

  • $25,000 for each person who has sustained injuries or was killed
  • $50,000 for two or more injured or killed persons
  • $15,000 for damage to another person's property

• Is distracted driving a common cause of fatal accidents in Chandler?

  Yes. A recent fiery crash involving multiple vehicles on Interstate 10 near Chandler Boulevard has killed five people and has been investigated by the police for distracted driving. State-wise, according to the 2021 crash facts from ADOT, 50 fatalities out of the 234,763 total crashes were caused by distracted driving.

• 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.