Understanding Arizona’s Accident and Injury Laws: What You Need to Know

March 24, 2025

Navigating Arizona's Personal Injury Laws

Accidents can be overwhelming, and understanding Arizona's accident and injury laws can help you protect your rights. Whether you've been in a car crash, slip and fall, or suffered a workplace injury, knowing the legal process can make a significant difference in your recovery and compensation. This guide breaks down the essentials of Arizona's accident and injury laws to help you navigate your next steps. 

Arizona's Comparative Negligence Law

Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that if you’re partially at fault for an accident, your compensation can still be recovered—but it will be reduced by your percentage of fault. 


Example: If you are found 20% responsible for a car accident and awarded $10,000 in damages, your compensation will be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $8,000. 


Why It Matters: 

  • Even if you share some fault, you can still pursue compensation. 
  • Insurance companies may try to assign more blame to reduce their payout, so proper documentation and legal guidance are crucial. 

Arizona's Comparative Negligence Law

Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that if you’re partially at fault for an accident, your compensation can still be recovered—but it will be reduced by your percentage of fault. 


Example: If you are found 20% responsible for a car accident and awarded $10,000 in damages, your compensation will be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $8,000. 


Why It Matters: 

  • Even if you share some fault, you can still pursue compensation. 
  • Insurance companies may try to assign more blame to reduce their payout, so proper documentation and legal guidance are crucial. 

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims

Arizona law sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. 


  • Personal injury claims: 2 years from the date of the accident 
  • Wrongful death claims: 2 years from the date of the victim’s death 
  • Claims against government entities: Only 180 days to file a formal claim


Why It Matters: 
Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to seek compensation. Always seek legal advice promptly to avoid complications. 

Arizona's At-Fault Insurance System

Unlike some states with no-fault insurance systems, Arizona is an at-fault state. This means that the person responsible for causing the accident is liable for damages. 


If you're injured in an accident, you can seek compensation through: 

  1. The at-fault party's insurance 
  2. Your insurance if the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured 
  3. Filing a personal injury lawsuit 


Why It Matters: 
If you're the victim of a car accident, it's essential to collect evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to prove the other party’s fault. 

Arizona's At-Fault Insurance System

Unlike some states with no-fault insurance systems, Arizona is an at-fault state. This means that the person responsible for causing the accident is liable for damages. 


If you're injured in an accident, you can seek compensation through: 

  1. The at-fault party's insurance 
  2. Your insurance if the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured 
  3. Filing a personal injury lawsuit 


Why It Matters: 
If you're the victim of a car accident, it's essential to collect evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to prove the other party’s fault. 

Damages You Can Claim

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, Arizona law allows you to seek compensation for various types of damages: 


  • Medical expenses: Current and future treatment costs 
  • Lost wages: If you cannot work due to your injuries 
  • Property damage: Repair or replacement of damaged property 
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for emotional distress and physical pain 
  • Punitive damages: Awarded in cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm


Why It Matters: 
Calculating damages accurately can be challenging. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. 

Handling Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payouts. They may use tactics like: 


  • Offering quick, low settlements 
  • Pressuring you to make recorded statements 
  • Disputing liability or the severity of your injuries 


Why It Matters: 
Before speaking to an insurance adjuster, consult with a personal injury attorney to avoid settling for less than you deserve. 

Handling Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payouts. They may use tactics like: 


  • Offering quick, low settlements 
  • Pressuring you to make recorded statements 
  • Disputing liability or the severity of your injuries 


Why It Matters: 
Before speaking to an insurance adjuster, consult with a personal injury attorney to avoid settling for less than you deserve. 

When to Seek Legal Help

If you've been injured in an accident and are unsure of your rights, it's best to consult an experienced personal injury attorney. They can: 


  • Evaluate your case and potential compensation 
  • Help gather evidence to support your claim 
  • Handle negotiations with insurance companies 
  • Represent you in court if necessary 

Take Control of Your Recovery—Contact Us Today

Accidents are unexpected, but understanding your rights doesn't have to be confusing. If you've been injured in Arizona and need guidance, contact us today to discuss your case. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Understanding your rights after an accident is crucial. Learn about Arizona’s accident and injury laws and how they affect your personal injury claim. Share this blog to help others stay informed and protect their rights.