Car accidents are an unfortunate reality that many drivers face. In Arizona, knowing the basic car accident laws can help you navigate the situation better if you’re ever involved in one.
Whether it’s a small fender-bender or a more serious crash, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Let’s break down some key points that every driver in Arizona should know.
Arizona is a Fault State
Arizona follows what is called a “fault” system when it comes to car accidents. This means that after an accident, the driver who is found responsible for causing the crash (the “at-fault” driver) is also responsible for paying for the damages.
These damages include things like repairs to your car, medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering.
If you’re in an accident and the other driver is at fault, you can file a claim with their insurance company. Alternatively, you can file a claim with your own insurance company, and they will handle it by working with the at-fault driver’s insurer.
Sometimes, when there’s a disagreement about who is at fault, things can get complicated, and this is where a car accident lawyer can help you sort things out.
The Importance of Insurance
Arizona law requires drivers to have car insurance. The minimum coverage includes $25,000 for injuries per person, $50,000 for injuries per accident, and $15,000 for property damage.
While these amounts might seem like a lot, they may not be enough if the accident is severe. This is why many drivers opt for higher coverage limits.
If you’re caught driving without insurance in Arizona, you could face penalties like fines, suspension of your driver’s license, and even having your car registration canceled.
After a car accident, the insurance coverage of the at-fault driver will be used to compensate the other parties involved. This makes it even more important to have proper insurance coverage.
Comparative Negligence
Arizona uses a “comparative negligence” rule when determining who is responsible for an accident. This means that more than one driver can be found partially at fault for the crash.
For example, if Driver A runs a red light but Driver B was speeding, both drivers may share some responsibility for the accident.
In these situations, each driver’s level of responsibility is expressed as a percentage. If you’re found to be 20% at fault for the accident, and the total damages amount to $10,000, you would be responsible for paying $2,000, while the other driver covers the rest.
This is why it’s important to have a car accident lawyer to help make sure your percentage of fault is fair.
What to Do After an Accident
If you’re involved in a car accident, there are a few important steps you should take:
- Check for Injuries: Make sure everyone is okay, and if there are any injuries, call 911 immediately.
- Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further collisions.
- Call the Police: In Arizona, it’s a good idea to report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.
- Exchange Information: Get the name, contact details, and insurance information of the other driver involved.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident, including any damage to the cars, the road conditions, and traffic signs. This can help later when determining who was at fault.
When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
In some cases, handling a car accident on your own can be straightforward, especially if the damage is minor. But when the accident involves injuries, disputes about fault, or insurance companies refusing to pay, contacting a car accident lawyer can make a big difference.
A lawyer can help you understand your rights, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
Understanding Arizona’s car accident laws can help you stay prepared if you’re ever in an accident. From knowing the importance of insurance to the role of comparative negligence, being informed can protect you in stressful situations.
And if things get complicated, remember that a car accident lawyer can assist you in getting the help you need.
