What to Expect During a Personal Injury Claim Process in Arizona

April 23, 2025

A step-by-step guide to navigating Arizona’s personal injury claims—from accident to settlement.

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Arizona, the road to receiving compensation can feel confusing and overwhelming. Whether you’ve been in a car crash, suffered a slip and fall, or experienced any other injury, it’s important to know what to expect throughout the personal injury claim process. Understanding the steps involved will help you stay informed and prepared. 


In this blog, we’ll walk you through each step of the personal injury claim process, from seeking medical attention to receiving your compensation. Let’s break it down, so you can feel confident as you navigate your personal injury claim in Arizona.

Get Medical Attention Right Away

Your health comes first. After an accident, even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to see a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, may not show symptoms immediately, so getting checked by a healthcare professional ensures you get the treatment you need. 


Why is this important?

The medical records you gather during this time will become essential evidence in your claim. They will show that your injuries were caused by the accident and help your lawyer build a strong case. 

Get Medical Attention Right Away

Your health comes first. After an accident, even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to see a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, may not show symptoms immediately, so getting checked by a healthcare professional ensures you get the treatment you need. 


Why is this important?
The medical records you gather during this time will become essential evidence in your claim. They will show that your injuries were caused by the accident and help your lawyer build a strong case. 

Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

Once you’ve sought medical care, the next step is to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. 


Your lawyer will: 


  • Review the details of the accident and identify who is at fault. 
  • Gather evidence to support your claim. 
  • Handle communication with insurance companies. 
  • Help you understand the value of your claim.


Having a lawyer from the start can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your case is handled properly. With their guidance, you’ll avoid the traps that insurance companies often set for unsuspecting claimants.

Investigate and Gather Evidence

After hiring a lawyer, the next step is an in-depth investigation. Your attorney will begin gathering evidence to strengthen your case. This may involve collecting: 


  • Police reports, if applicable. 
  • Medical records detailing your injuries. 
  • Statements from witnesses. 
  • Photos or video footage of the accident scene.


This evidence helps build a clear picture of what happened, who was at fault, and how severe your injuries are. The stronger the evidence, the stronger your claim. 

Investigate and Gather Evidence

After hiring a lawyer, the next step is an in-depth investigation. Your attorney will begin gathering evidence to strengthen your case. This may involve collecting: 


  • Police reports, if applicable. 
  • Medical records detailing your injuries. 
  • Statements from witnesses. 
  • Photos or video footage of the accident scene.


This evidence helps build a clear picture of what happened, who was at fault, and how severe your injuries are. The stronger the evidence, the stronger your claim. 

File an Insurance Claim

Once the evidence is collected, your lawyer will file an insurance claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. The insurance company will assess the claim and determine whether they accept or deny it. Often, they’ll offer a settlement—usually less than what you deserve. 


Why is this important?

Insurance companies are focused on saving money, not on giving you a fair settlement. This is where your lawyer’s expertise is invaluable. They’ll protect your interests and ensure that you’re not pressured into accepting a low offer.

File an Insurance Claim

Once the evidence is collected, your lawyer will file an insurance claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. The insurance company will assess the claim and determine whether they accept or deny it. Often, they’ll offer a settlement—usually less than what you deserve. 


Why is this important? 
Insurance companies are focused on saving money, not on giving you a fair settlement. This is where your lawyer’s expertise is invaluable. They’ll protect your interests and ensure that you’re not pressured into accepting a low offer.

Negotiating a Settlement

After reviewing your claim, the insurance company will likely make an initial offer. At this point, your lawyer will carefully evaluate whether this settlement is fair or if it falls short of covering your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 


If the offer is too low, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to get you the compensation you deserve. Negotiations can take time, but your lawyer will work hard to get a fair offer. If needed, they will keep pushing to ensure you’re fully compensated for your injuries. 

Negotiating a Settlement

After reviewing your claim, the insurance company will likely make an initial offer. At this point, your lawyer will carefully evaluate whether this settlement is fair or if it falls short of covering your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 


If the offer is too low, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to get you the compensation you deserve. Negotiations can take time, but your lawyer will work hard to get a fair offer. If needed, they will keep pushing to ensure you’re fully compensated for your injuries. 

Filing a Lawsuit

(If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit. This doesn’t mean you’re automatically going to trial, but it does start the formal legal process. 


Filing a lawsuit allows you to move forward with your claim and send a strong message to the insurance company that you’re serious about getting a fair settlement. Often, the threat of a lawsuit encourages insurance companies to offer better settlements. 

Trial

(If Necessary)

Most personal injury cases settle outside of court, but if your case goes to trial, you’ll present your evidence in front of a judge or jury. They will decide who is at fault and how much compensation you should receive. 


Going to trial can take time and energy, but sometimes it’s the only way to get the justice you deserve. If your case does go to trial, your attorney will be with you every step of the way, fighting for your rights. 

Receiving Your Compensation

Once a settlement is reached or a trial concludes in your favor, it’s time to receive your compensation. This payment should cover: 


  • Medical expenses. 
  • Lost wages. 
  • Pain and suffering. 
  • Other related damages.


Your attorney will ensure that the settlement is fair and that you receive the full amount you're entitled to. If you had to pay for treatment upfront, you’ll also be reimbursed for those costs. 

Be Prepared and Stay Informed

The personal injury claim process can seem complicated, but with the right legal help, you can get through it successfully. From seeking medical care to negotiating with insurance companies, each step is important in securing the compensation you deserve. 


By understanding the process and having an experienced lawyer on your side, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the fair treatment you deserve. 


If you’ve been injured in an accident in Arizona, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you through the personal injury claim process from start to finish. 

Injured in an accident in Arizona? Learn what really happens during the personal injury claim process—who’s involved, how long it takes, and what to expect at every stage. Share this with someone who might need help understanding their rights after an injury.