It is okay to feel confused and anxious after a car accident in Tucson, especially if you are not at fault. Retain your calm and inform the local law enforcement. Wait at the scene until an investigating officer arrives and avoid getting into arguments. It would help if you also started looking for an attorney specializing in personal injury law who can help file a car accident claim. For your help, check the critical laws in Arizona.
Arizona is a fault-based state
Many states have a no-fault system for car accidents, but Arizona is not one of them. In this state, if someone is responsible for an accident, they are also liable for the consequences and injuries endured by others. You will file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company to recover a settlement, but you are also required to provide evidence of fault.
Comparative negligence in Arizona
Arizona follows the pure comparative fault rule. If two parties share the blame for an accident on the roads of Tucson, their fault percentage will determine the outcome. Even if you are more liable than the other driver, you can still recover a financial settlement, but your awarded amount will be adjusted for your share. For instance, if you are 90% at fault and still won a settlement of $100,000, you can recover $10,000. Remember that in such circumstances, the other party will also file a case against you. Let your attorney decide whether the matter is worth the fight.
Time cap for car accident lawsuits
The statute of limitations is a law that sets the deadline for filing an injury lawsuit. For car accident cases, you have two years from the date of the mishap, although there are exceptions. Don’t wait until the last minute if you intend to file a lawsuit in court.
Get the right attorney
Knowing about the statute of limitations and other state laws is not enough to get a fair outcome. You have to be aggressive and proactive, for which you need a lawyer. Check online for local law firms that have been around in Tucson for a long time and has worked on comparable cases. You should also meet the prospective lawyer and must be able to ask questions pertaining to your injuries and the claim. Ask about the case expenses and, more importantly, about the attorney’s contingency fee.
You shouldn’t have to pay an injury lawyer until you win.
