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Car accidents are unexpected and often leave individuals disoriented and unsure of their next steps. It’s crucial to know the proper actions to take after an accident in Arizona. These steps can ensure your safety, comply with Arizona personal injury laws, and help protect your right to compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured, our car accident lawyers in Arizona at Craig Swapp and Associates can guide you through every step of the legal process to maximize your recovery.
Being proactive immediately following a car accident is critical to protect your well-being and your legal rights.
Here are some important steps to take:
First and foremost, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately. Keeping calm during this time can make a significant difference in managing the situation effectively.
Under Arizona law, it is important to report any car accident involving injury, death, or significant property damage to the police. The police report is a crucial document that can help support your car accident claims later.
If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, visible injuries, and any relevant road conditions. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers.
Even if you feel fine, it’s vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could become severe over time. Having medical records is also important when pursuing compensation for your injuries.
Notify the insurance company about the accident, but avoid making any statements that might imply fault. Stick to the basic facts, and do not speculate on what caused the accident.
One of the most crucial steps after an accident is to contact a qualified car accident attorney. Our attorneys in Arizona have extensive experience in representing victims of Arizona car accidents and can help you understand your rights and fight for fair compensation.
Just as there are important actions you should take, there are also pitfalls to avoid to ensure that your claim isn’t compromised.
Leaving the scene of an accident, especially if there are injuries, can lead to serious criminal charges. Under Arizona law (A.R.S. § 28-663), drivers are required to remain at the scene, assist injured persons, and exchange information.
In the moments following an accident, it’s natural to want to apologize, but any admission of fault could be used against you in legal proceedings. Stick to the facts when speaking with law enforcement and the other driver.
Failing to seek medical treatment immediately after a car accident can weaken your case. Insurance companies might argue that your injuries were not serious or were unrelated to the accident if there is a delay in treatment.
You might be approached by insurance companies offering a settlement. It’s important not to sign anything without consulting an Arizona personal injury lawyer. These initial offers are often lower than what you might be entitled to, and signing a release could prevent you from pursuing further compensation.
Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries on social media. Insurance companies may use your posts against you to minimize your claim. It’s best to keep details of the accident private until your case is resolved.
After an Arizona car accident, it’s essential to understand the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. The statute of limitations is the timeframe you have to initiate a lawsuit for compensation.
In Arizona, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for personal injury or property damage (A.R.S. § 12-542). Failing to file within this period can bar you from receiving any compensation for your injuries.
This two-year limit applies to most car accident claims; however, if a government entity is involved, the timeframe for filing a notice of claim is much shorter – 180 days from the date of the accident, with only one year to file a lawsuit. Consulting a car accident lawyer in Arizona is crucial to ensure all deadlines are met.
After a car accident, victims often wonder how to maximize their compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Here are some important steps to help strengthen your car accident claims and achieve the best possible outcome:
Maintain records of all medical visits, treatments, expenses, and lost wages related to the accident. Detailed records are essential when proving the extent of your damages.
It’s vital to follow all prescribed medical treatments and attend follow-up appointments. Failing to do so may suggest to insurance adjusters that your injuries are not as serious as claimed, which could negatively affect your compensation.
Insurance companies may pressure you into accepting a quick settlement, but these offers are often insufficient. Be patient and consult with a car accident lawyer in Arizona before agreeing to any settlement.
To succeed in a personal injury claim, you must prove that the other driver was negligent and that their negligence led to your injuries. An attorney can gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts if needed to establish liability.
Having experienced representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Craig Swapp and Associates is well-versed in Arizona personal injury law and can handle negotiations with insurance companies while advocating for the compensation you deserve.
Remember to take proactive steps to protect your rights, avoid common pitfalls, and work closely with experienced Arizona personal injury lawyers. At Craig Swapp and Associates, we are dedicated to helping car accident victims get the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Arizona car accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. Call us today at 1-480-605-2499 or answer our online form to schedule your free consultation.
Written By: Ryan Swapp Legal Review By: Craig Swapp