How Is Liability Determined in Arizona Car Accidents? 

February 17, 2025 | Car Accidents

How Is Liability Determined in Arizona Car Accidents? 

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Arizona, you might wonder who is at fault. You might question how liability is determined. Understanding liability in a car accident case is crucial, as it forms the basis for seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

In Arizona, liability is typically assigned based on fault. The party responsible for causing the accident is required to pay for the victim’s damages. Below is an overview of how liability is determined in Arizona car accidents. 

Is Arizona a No-Fault State? 

Arizona is not a no-fault state. It is an at-fault state. This means the person who is responsible for causing the car accident (the “at-fault” driver) is financially liable for the damages. In at-fault states like Arizona, the negligent party or their insurance company is expected to compensate the injured party for their injuries and other losses. 

Arizona law uses a tort-based system to determine liability. Examples of negligent behavior include: 

Since Arizona is a tort-based state, the injured party (plaintiff) can claim compensation against the responsible party (defendant). This differs from no-fault states, where each driver’s own insurance typically covers their losses regardless of who was at fault. 

How Do Police Determine Fault in an Arizona Car Accident? 

After a car accident, the police are usually called to the scene to investigate. They will collect evidence, interview witnesses, and write a police report. This report will include critical information, such as the officer’s observations of the scene, witness statements, and any citations issued. In some cases, law enforcement may issue a traffic citation to the driver they believe is responsible for the accident. 

It is important to note that a citation issued by a police officer does not automatically make the driver liable for the accident. Citations relate to criminal or traffic violations. Liability for damages in a car accident case is determined by civil law. This is why it is important to consult with an experienced attorney. 

How to Prove Liability After a Car Accident in Arizona 

To recover compensation for your injuries, you must prove that the other driver is liable for the accident. This involves demonstrating that the other driver’s negligence (or wrongful actions) directly caused the crash. Proving liability can be challenging, but a skilled attorney can help you gather evidence and present a compelling case. 

Some of the evidence that may be used to prove liability includes: 

  • Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from people who witnessed the accident can be critical in establishing fault. 
  • Police Reports: Police documents can show details of the accident, including who may have violated traffic laws. 
  • Photographs or Video Footage: Pictures or video from the scene of the accident or nearby surveillance cameras can help illustrate how the accident happened. 
  • Expert Witnesses: In some cases, accident reconstruction experts can provide an analysis of the crash and clarify the cause. 
  • Medical Records: To link your injuries to the accident, your medical records will be essential in demonstrating the extent and cause of your injuries. 

An experienced attorney will help gather all necessary evidence to prove that the other driver was at fault and that you deserve compensation. 

Who Might Be Liable for a Car Accident? 

While most car accidents involve two drivers, other parties may also be liable for your injuries. For example: 

  • The Other Driver: The most common liable party is the driver who caused the accident. 
  • The Driver’s Employer: If the at-fault driver was working at the time of the accident, the employer may be held liable. 
  • Vehicle Manufacturers: If the accident was caused by a defect in the vehicle or its components, the manufacturer may be held liable. 
  • Government Entities: If poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or hazardous conditions on public property caused the accident, the local government may be responsible. 

We can work with you to investigate every potential source of liability and pursue every avenue to ensure you receive the compensation you need. 

Contact the Arizona Car Accident Lawyers at Runion Personal Injury Lawyers Today

If you were injured in an accident in Phoenix, AZ, and need legal help, contact our Phoenix car accident attorneys at Runion Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free case review today.

Runion Personal Injury Lawyers
3200 N Central Ave Suite 1100, Phoenix, AZ 85012
(602) 600-9000