If you get into a car accident in Arizona, you might wonder how insurance and fault work. Some states follow “no-fault” rules, but Arizona is not one of them. This means that the driver who caused the accident is usually responsible for paying for the damages. This post explains what that means and what you should do if you are involved in a crash in Arizona.
What Does It Mean to Be an At-Fault State?
Arizona is called an at-fault or tort state. That means the person who caused the accident is the one who must pay for the other person’s injuries and property damage. You have to prove that the other driver was careless or broke a traffic law to hold them responsible. If you were partly at fault, Arizona uses what’s called pure comparative negligence. This means your compensation can be reduced by how much you were at fault, but you can still get some money even if you share blame.
How Is Fault Determined in Arizona?
Fault is figured out by looking at evidence from the crash. This can include photos, police reports, witness statements, and sometimes traffic camera footage. Police reports often list who they think caused the accident based on the facts they find at the scene. If someone broke a traffic law, like running a red light or speeding, that can also show who was at fault.
What Happens if You Are at Fault?
If you caused the accident, your liability insurance usually covers the damages. Arizona law requires drivers to have at least:
- $15,000 for property damage
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
If you don’t have insurance and cause an accident, the consequences can be serious. Fines start at $500 for the first offense and go higher for repeat offenses. You could also lose your driver’s license for a few months to a year. In addition to fines, you may have to pay the other person’s medical bills and repair costs out of your own pocket.
What If the Other Driver Has No Insurance?
Around 12 to 20 percent of drivers in Arizona don’t have insurance. If the at-fault driver has no insurance, it can be harder to get your money back. That’s why uninsured motorist coverage (UM) is a good idea. This coverage can help pay for your injuries and damages if you’re hit by someone who doesn’t have insurance.
What Should You Do After an Accident?
If you are in a car accident, follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Stay at the scene and make sure everyone is safe.
- Call the police, even if it seems minor. They will make a report that can help later.
- Exchange information with the other driver, like names, addresses, and insurance details.
- Take photos of the accident scene, car damage, and any injuries.
- Don’t admit fault or apologize at the scene. Just stick to the facts.
- See a doctor right away if you are hurt. Some injuries might not be obvious at first.
- Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as you can.
Avoid leaving the scene or moving your car too much unless it is unsafe to stay where it is. Also, don’t talk to the other driver’s insurance company without your own lawyer, especially if you think you might be at fault.
Special Situations: Company Vehicles, Rental Cars, and Multi-Vehicle Crashes
If you cause an accident while driving a company vehicle, the company’s insurance usually covers the damages. The same is true for rental cars—the rental company or your personal insurance might cover the costs depending on the situation.
Multi-vehicle accidents can be more complicated because fault can be shared among several drivers. In these cases, each person’s responsibility is calculated, and compensation is adjusted accordingly.
How a Lawyer Can Help
A car accident lawyer can help gather evidence to prove fault and fight for fair compensation. They know how to deal with insurance companies and can guide you through the legal steps if your case goes to court. Getting help from an attorney can make the process easier and increase your chances of getting the money you deserve.
Arizona is not a no-fault state, so the driver who caused the accident is generally responsible for the damages. If you are involved in a crash, take the right steps to protect yourself, document everything, and consider getting legal help. Whether you were the at-fault driver or the victim, understanding how fault and insurance work can make a big difference.
If you have questions or need help with a car accident claim, call CLS Law at (855) 257-9467 for a free consultation. Getting advice early can help you protect your rights and get the compensation you need.