What to Do After a Car Accident in Arizona
If you have been in a car accident in Arizona, the steps you take in the first hours and days matter for both your health and your legal rights. Insurance companies start building their case against you immediately. Here is what to do and what to avoid.
At the Scene
Call 911. Arizona law requires you to report any accident that causes injury, death, or property damage over $2,000. The police report becomes a key piece of evidence in your case.
Get medical attention. Even if you feel fine, tell the paramedics about any pain or discomfort. Adrenaline masks injury symptoms. Many accident victims feel fine at the scene and wake up the next morning unable to move their neck. If you skip the ambulance, go to an emergency room or urgent care within 24 hours.
Document everything. Take photos of all vehicles, the intersection, traffic signals, skid marks, road conditions, and your injuries. Get the other driver’s name, phone number, insurance company, and policy number. Get contact information from witnesses.
Do not admit fault. Do not say “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you.” Anything you say can be used against you. Stick to the facts when talking to police.
After the Scene
Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. They will call you, often within hours. They sound friendly. They are not on your side. Their job is to get you to say something that reduces what they pay. You are not legally required to give them a recorded statement.
Keep all medical records and bills. Every doctor visit, every prescription, every physical therapy session. These documents are the foundation of your injury claim.
Do not post about the accident on social media. Insurance adjusters search your Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for anything they can use to argue you are not really injured.
Contact a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offer. The first offer from the insurance company is almost always lower than what your case is worth. Once you accept, you cannot ask for more, even if your injuries turn out to be worse than you thought.
Arizona-Specific Rules You Should Know
Statute of limitations: You have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in Arizona. Miss this deadline and you lose your right to sue entirely.
Modified comparative fault: Arizona uses a 51% bar rule. If you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover compensation, but it will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Minimum insurance requirements: Arizona requires drivers to carry at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in liability coverage. Many drivers carry the minimum, which may not be enough to cover serious injuries.
When to Call a Lawyer
Not every fender bender needs a lawyer. But if you have significant injuries, the other driver’s insurance is disputing fault, the accident involved a commercial truck, or the insurance company is pressuring you to settle quickly, a personal injury attorney can significantly increase your recovery. The consultation is free and there are no fees unless we win.
Call Wood Injury Law at (480) 937-2116 for a free case review.
