Car accidents happen every day in Arizona, and understanding the laws that apply can make a significant difference in how you handle the aftermath. Being informed about Arizona car accident laws helps protect your rights and ensures you take the proper steps after a collision.
The state operates under an at-fault system, meaning the driver who caused the accident is typically responsible for covering the damages. Arizona also follows pure comparative negligence rules, which allow injured parties to seek compensation even if they share some of the blame—though their recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault. Drivers are required to carry minimum liability insurance, and certain accidents must be reported to law enforcement. At The Law Offices of John Phebus, our legal team guides clients through complex accident claims with clarity and confidence.
If you would like to discuss options on your case and how we can provide legal help, contact The Law Offices of John Phebus Criminal and Personal Injury Lawyer today
According to Arizona Revised Statutes §28-663, a driver involved in an accident that results in injury, death, or vehicle damage—whether on public or private property—must stop and provide their name, address, and the vehicle’s registration number. Additionally, upon request, the driver must show their license to the other party involved in the collision.
Arizona law also requires that accidents resulting in injury, death, property damage exceeding $2,000, or those that lead to a traffic citation be reported to law enforcement. Whenever possible, the report should be made at the scene of the crash so that police can respond and complete a formal report documenting the incident.
Failing to report an accident or comply with these responsibilities may lead to criminal consequences, including misdemeanor or felony charges. Drivers are also required to stop immediately at the scene, offer reasonable assistance to anyone who may be injured, and exchange contact and insurance information. Not following these procedures can result in both legal penalties and complications in any subsequent insurance or legal claims.
Arizona car accident laws establish a fault-based system, where the driver who causes an accident is financially responsible for the resulting damages. This means that when a crash occurs due to negligent behavior, such as texting while driving, speeding, or failing to yield, the at-fault driver’s insurance provider may be responsible for covering the costs of injuries and property damage.
This approach differs from no-fault insurance states, where drivers typically turn to their own insurance policies for coverage, regardless of who was to blame. In Arizona, assigning fault is a critical step in the claims process.
All drivers in the state are required to carry liability insurance that provides coverage for bodily injury and property damage. This insurance plays a key role in how compensation is pursued and distributed following a collision.
Arizona applies a pure comparative negligence rule in personal injury cases, which means that being partially at fault for an accident does not automatically prevent someone from recovering compensation. An injured party can still obtain damages, but the amount awarded will be reduced in proportion to the percentage of fault assigned to them.
As noted by the Arizona Legislature, comparative negligence is always a matter for the jury to decide. If the jury finds the claimant partially at fault, the damages awarded will be reduced proportionally. However, this rule does not apply to individuals who caused the injury or death through intentional, willful, or wanton conduct.
For example, if someone is awarded $100,000 but is found to be 20 percent responsible for the crash, the final recovery would be reduced to $80,000. This system ensures that liability is fairly distributed, while still allowing injured individuals to pursue compensation even in cases of shared responsibility.
There are no state-imposed limits on the amount of compensation a person can seek after a car accident in Arizona. Unlike other states that place caps on damages, particularly for pain and suffering, Arizona does not restrict recovery amounts in motor vehicle accident cases.
This can be especially important in serious collisions where the consequences go beyond immediate medical bills and may include lasting physical, financial, or emotional impacts. Without statutory damage caps, individuals may have the opportunity to pursue full compensation based on the details of their case under Arizona car accident laws.
It’s important to act quickly after a car accident—not only to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights, but also to comply with filing deadlines. Insurance companies often have short timeframes for submitting claims, and waiting too long could put your recovery at risk.
As noted by the Arizona Revised Statutes §12-542, personal injury claims must typically be filed within two years of the date of the incident — unless an exception under section 12-551 applies. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations. In some cases, the clock may begin on the date the injury is discovered rather than the date of the crash, and certain exceptions may extend or reduce the filing period.
If you would like to discuss options on your case and how we can provide legal help, contact The Law Offices of John Phebus Criminal and Personal Injury Lawyer today and connect with one of our highly experienced Glendale criminal defense attorneys.
Understanding and complying with Arizona car accident laws is essential after any collision. From meeting insurance requirements to filing within the legal time limits, each step can significantly impact the outcome of a case.
The Law Offices of John Phebus provides guidance grounded in Arizona law to help ensure accident claims are handled with clarity, timeliness, and legal precision. Contact us today at (623) 847-7117.
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John Phebus is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with a strong focus on DUI defense, vehicular crimes, and serious criminal charges. He has fiercely advocated for clients throughout Arizona, working to protect their rights, driving privileges, and freedom. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to each case, John has achieved many successful outcomes for individuals facing complex criminal matters. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and dedicated Glendale criminal defense lawyer who will fight for your future, John Phebus is here to help.
Years of experience: +30 years
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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Attorney John Phebus, who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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