What Should I Do Immediately After A Car Accident In Arizona?

A car accident can be a shocking and overwhelming experience. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, knowing the right steps to take immediately after an accident in Arizona is critical for your safety, legal rights, and any potential injury claim. Our team at Big Auto is here to guide you through this stressful time and ensure you take the right actions to protect yourself.

1. Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety

Your first priority after an accident is your health and safety.

• Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance.
• If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further accidents. However, if there are serious injuries or significant property damage, leave the vehicles as they are until law enforcement arrives.

2. Call 911 and Report the Accident

In Arizona, you must report an accident to law enforcement if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Even if the damage seems minor, having an official police report can be critical for insurance and legal purposes.

• When speaking with the responding officers, stick to the facts. Avoid speculating or admitting fault.
• Request a copy of the accident report or obtain the report number so you can retrieve it later.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

The evidence you collect at the accident scene can make a difference in your ability to recover compensation later. Important steps include:

• Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
• Collect witness statements and contact information.
• Exchange information with all involved drivers, including:
  • Full name and contact details
  • Driver’s license number
  • Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
  • Insurance company and policy number

4. Seek Medical Attention, Even If You Feel Fine

Not all injuries are immediately apparent. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may take hours or even days to show symptoms.

• Visit a doctor as soon as possible after the accident.
• Follow all medical advice and keep records of your treatments, as this will be crucial evidence if you file an insurance claim or lawsuit.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Most insurance policies require you to report accidents promptly. When speaking with your insurer:

• Provide basic facts about the accident.
• Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you.
• Ask for clarification on what your policy covers, including medical expenses and vehicle repairs.

6. Be Cautious When Speaking to Insurance Adjusters

After an accident, you may receive a call from the other driver’s insurance company. Their goal is to minimize payouts, so be careful when speaking with them.

• Do not provide a recorded statement without consulting a lawyer.
• Do not accept a settlement offer before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and damages.
• Contact a car accident attorney before negotiating with insurers to protect your rights.

7. Understand Arizona’s Fault-Based System

Arizona is an “at-fault” state, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is also responsible for covering damages. This can impact how you seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Property damage
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Other accident-related costs

If the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient, you may need to file a claim through your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or take legal action.

8. Consult with a Car Accident Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complex. An experienced Arizona car accident lawyer can:

• Investigate the crash
• Gather crucial evidence
• Negotiate with insurance companies
• Represent you in court if necessary

A strong legal advocate can ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

9. Be Mindful of Arizona’s Statute of Limitations

If you plan to file a lawsuit, you must act within Arizona’s legal deadlines:

• Personal injury claims: 2 years from the accident date.
• Property damage claims: 2 years from the accident date.

Failing to file within these time frames could mean losing your right to compensation.

The Big Auto Commitment

At Big Auto, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a car accident can be. That’s why we’re committed to fighting for accident victims and ensuring they receive the justice they deserve. You don’t have to face this alone—our experienced attorneys are ready to advocate for you every step of the way. If you’ve been injured in an accident, contact us for a free consultation today. No fees unless we win!