Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident in Phoenix, Arizona?

July 11, 2023 | Car Accidents

Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident in Phoenix, Arizona?

Being involved in a car crash, even a small one, can be a scary and costly experience. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand what steps to take and how to protect yourself following a crash-even a “minor” one. 

Arizona Car Accident Statistics 

According to statistics, in Arizona in 2021, there were 121,345 total crashes, leaving 51,633 people injured and 21,416 suspected minor injuries. Additionally, the statewide economic loss due to motor vehicle crashes totaled over $20 billion.

Car accidents, even minor ones, can wreak havoc not only on the lives of the parties involved in the crash but also on the entire state due to the economic consequences of motor vehicle accidents.

Accident Reporting Procedures

You must take specific actions to ensure your well-being and protect your rights when involved in a car crash. You should prioritize safety, contact the police, and gather information. 

In addition, you should also follow procedures recommended by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT).

Here are some of the accident reporting procedures you should follow:

  • Seek medical attention
  • Move your car to a safer place away from the mainline/highway if possible
  • Notify local law enforcement
  • Contact your insurance company
  • Refer to the ADOT accident packet and exchange contact information with the other driver(s)
  • Notify your supervisor, if necessary
  • Submit automobile loss report available at ADOTNet no longer than ten days after the accident
  • Call ADOT Risk Management 
  • Protect your sensitive information
  • Do not admit any fault
  • Do not argue with anyone on the scene

If your accident involves making a claim with insurance, especially against the at-fault driver, it’s wise to reach out to an attorney before any further correspondence. 

Damages You Can Recover After a Minor Car Accident in Phoenix

Car crashes can result in both economic and non-economic damages that you can recover compensation for. The damages you can recover in your case will depend on the nature of the accident and the consequences you’ve experienced. Examples of damages available in car accident cases include:

Many other types of damages could be awarded as well, based on the specific case.

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Minor Accident?

Determining whether you need to hire a lawyer after a car crash depends on various factors.

One of the factors to consider when determining if you need a lawyer is whether or not there is an issue when dealing with your insurance company. 

Insurance Disputes

If you encounter challenges in dealing with your insurance company, a Personal Injury attorney in Phoenix, AZ can assist in negotiating a fair settlement and protecting your rights.

A lawyer’s assistance can help you seek full compensation for damages. You may run the risk of settling your claim for less than it’s actually worth without the assistance of an attorney. Insurance companies are out to protect their bottom lines, not to put money in your pocket.

Case Complexity

If the crash involves serious property damage, injuries, or disputes over liability, consulting a lawyer is advisable. A knowledgeable lawyer can navigate the legal complexities on your behalf and work to get you maximum damages for your injuries and loss.

It’s Likely Worth Your Time To Contact a Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review

It’s not always necessary to hire a lawyer after a car wreck. However, note that most car accident attorneys in Phoenix work on a contingency fee basis. That means they only receive attorney’s fees if they win compensation for your case. As a result, if a lawyer takes on your case, you can be confident that they think you have a strong chance at recovering compensation.

And since the majority of lawyers in this area of the law offer free initial consultations, you can get some preliminary legal help at no charge. it’s almost certainly worth your time to take this step and determine whether hiring an attorney makes sense in your situation.

Contact an Experienced Phoenix Car Accident Lawyer for Help With Your Claim

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

Curiel & Runion Personal Injury Lawyers
1221 E Osborn Rd. Suite 201
Phoenix, AZ 85014
(602) 595-5559

Curiel & Runion Personal Injury Lawyers
400 Gold Avenue SW Suite 650
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 594-3621

Curiel & Runion Personal Injury Lawyers
5151 E Broadway Blvd. Suite 1600
Tucson, AZ 85711
(520) 492-0926