Phoenix Car Accident Lawyers

The Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Phoenix

The 2023 Arizona Motor Vehicle Crash Facts report shows that most car accidents are caused by unsafe driving. In Phoenix, the main reasons for crashes are:

• Speeding:  Driving too fast caused 446 deaths and 20,682 injuries statewide in 2023. This was 34.1% of all traffic deaths.
• Alcohol Impairment:  Drunk driving led to 332 deaths, making up 25.4% of all traffic fatalities. Drivers aged 25-34 and males were involved the most.
• Distracted Driving:  At least 8,657 crashes were caused by distracted drivers, with 62 fatal crashes. The real number may be higher because not all drivers admit to being distracted.
• Failure to Yield:  Many accidents happen when drivers don’t yield at stop signs, traffic lights, or while turning left.
• Unsafe Lane Changes:  Switching lanes without care or drifting out of a lane causes many crashes.
• Running Red Lights:  Ignoring traffic signals is a major cause of accidents at busy intersections.
• Tailgating:  Following other cars too closely often leads to rear-end collisions, especially in heavy traffic.
• Motorcycle Crashes:  Motorcycle accidents are increasing, with 258 deaths in 2023, an 11.2% jump from 2022.
• Not Using Seat Belts or Helmets:  Not wearing safety gear led to 361 deaths and 3,239 injuries statewide.

Who is Responsible for a Car Crash in Phoenix

If you’ve been in a car accident, figuring out who is at fault is just the first step. To get compensation, you need to show that someone else acted carelessly or wrongfully and caused the accident. Here are common ways drivers or other parties can be responsible:

• Fatigued Driving:  Driving while tired affects focus, judgment, and reaction time. It’s often compared to drunk driving because it can be just as dangerous.
• Distracted Driving:  Distractions like texting, eating, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio can quickly lead to crashes. Even looking away for a moment can cause a serious accident.
• Ignoring Traffic Laws:  Failing to signal, speeding, tailgating, or weaving through traffic are all unsafe actions that often cause accidents.
• Driving Too Fast:  A driver doesn’t have to go over the speed limit to be at fault. Driving too fast for traffic, weather, or road conditions can still lead to accidents.
• Driving Under the Influence:  Alcohol or drugs slow down reaction times and decision-making, making it more likely for impaired drivers to cause serious crashes.
• Reckless Driving:  Running red lights, ignoring stop signs, or not following traffic signals are reckless behaviors that cause many accidents at busy intersections.
• Third-Party Problems:  Sometimes, it’s not just the driver’s fault. Bad road conditions, poor signage, or defective car parts can also lead to crashes. In these cases, other parties, like car manufacturers or road agencies, may be responsible.

Why Intersection Crashes Are So Common in Phoenix

Intersections are busy places where many things are happening at once. Some cars go straight, others turn right, and some cross to make left turns. On top of that, there are pedestrians and bicyclists sharing the space, which increases the chance of accidents.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that most intersection accidents happen because of human mistakes. Common causes include:

• Not checking for other vehicles or people
• Guessing wrong about what another driver will do
• Turning without having a clear view
• Illegal actions like unsafe U-turns
• Driving while distracted
• Misjudging how much space there is between vehicles
• Misjudging how fast another car is going

What to Do After a Car Wreck in Phoenix, AZ

What you do after a car accident can greatly impact your ability to receive fair compensation. Taking the right steps helps protect your legal rights and increases your chances of getting the money you deserve for damages. Here are steps to take after a car accident in Phoenix:

1. Get to Safety. If you’re able, move to a safe spot away from the roadway and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the accident.
2. Call 911. Contact emergency services right away. Phoenix police will secure the accident scene and create an official crash report. If medical attention is needed, they’ll dispatch an ambulance. When speaking with officers:
   • Be honest and stick to the facts.
   • Do not accept fault, even if you think you may be to blame.
   • If you don’t feel immediate pain, state that you are unsure about your injuries.
3. Take Photos. Photos are critical for proving your injury claim. Be sure to capture:
   • Damage to all vehicles involved
   • Driver’s licenses, insurance cards, and license plates
   • Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN)
   • Visible injuries like cuts, bruises, or burns
   • The entire accident scene, including debris, skid marks, and traffic signs
4. Gather Evidence. Look for witnesses who saw the crash and ask for their contact information. Check for video evidence, such as dash cameras or nearby business security cameras.
5. See a Doctor. Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, see a doctor as soon as possible. This is important for your health and helps establish proof of any injuries caused by the accident.
6. Call Our Phoenix Car Accident Lawyers. Handling a car accident claim on your own can be overwhelming. According to a study by Nolo.com, claims led by experienced personal injury lawyers result in up to 3x more compensation for victims.

Dos and Dont’s After a Car Accident

At Thompson Law, we’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve for injuries and damages after an accident. Here’s what you should—and shouldn’t—do following a crash.

What Compensation is Available to Vehicle Accident Victims in Phoenix?

While Arizona law allows car accident victims to recover compensation for their injuries, getting the money you deserve is not always easy. You need experienced Phoenix car accident lawyers to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the full compensation owed to you.

Compensation for car accident injuries typically falls into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages. The total value of your settlement will depend on factors like the severity of your injuries, property damage, and the insurance policies involved. Here’s a breakdown of the damages you may be eligible to receive:

• Economic damages include:
  • Medical bills (past and future)
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement)
  • Out-of-pocket expenses, such as transportation and home modifications
• Non-economic damages cover losses that are harder to calculate, including:
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of companionship or consortium

In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. This happens when the at-fault driver acts with gross negligence or intentional harm, such as driving under the influence or engaging in reckless behavior.

The compensation you receive will depend on the specific details of your case, including your injuries, the evidence available, and the insurance policies in place. Our Phoenix car accident lawyers will thoroughly evaluate your claim, gather evidence, and fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Let us handle the legal battle so you can focus on healing.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents in Phoenix can range from minor fender benders to severe crashes, often causing injuries that require immediate or long-term medical care. It’s important to know what symptoms to watch for if you or a loved one is involved in a collision. Here are some of the most common car accident injuries in Phoenix:

• Whiplash
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Burn injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Paralysis
• Fractures bones
• Internal injuries, such as organ damage
• Lacerations, abrasions, and cuts
• Nerve damage
• Concussions
• Amputation
• Wrongful death

Even if you feel fine after a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention. Some injuries, like internal damage or concussions, may not show symptoms right away and can take days or weeks to develop. A doctor can evaluate your condition, identify hidden injuries, and ensure you receive the treatment needed to heal.

Why Choose Thompson Law As Your Phoenix Car Accident Lawyer?

Get a FREE CONSULTATION With Our Phoenix Car Accident Lawyers

Choosing the right legal team after a car accident can make all the difference in your recovery and compensation. At Thompson Law, we bring experience, dedication, and a client-first approach to every case. Here’s why you can trust us to handle your car accident claim in Phoenix:

• No Fees Unless We Win:  You pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we win your case and recover compensation for you.
• Proven Success:  With over $1.9 billion recovered for our clients, we have the knowledge and skills to fight for the best possible outcome.
• Fast, Easy Process:  We make it simple to get started. Call or message us anytime, and you can speak with a lawyer right away. You can sign up from your smartphone or computer, and we’ll start working on your case within minutes.
• 24/7 Support:  Accidents don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we. Our team is available 24/7 to provide the support and guidance you need, when you need it.
• Personalized Service:  We treat every client with respect, compassion, and care. From answering your questions to keeping you updated on your case, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
• Bilingual Staff:  Language should never be a barrier to getting justice. Our bilingual team is ready to help Spanish-speaking clients navigate the legal process.

At Thompson Law, we fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery. From handling insurance companies to building a strong case on your behalf, we’re here to take the burden off your shoulders.

Don’t wait — Arizona’s statute of limitations for personal injury limits the time to file a claim after a car accident. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our Phoenix car accident lawyers help you get the justice and financial relief you deserve.

Common FAQ's About Phoenix Car Accidents

Who pays for car damage in Phoenix?

Fault insurance laws vary by state, with some states following a fault system and others a no-fault system. In Arizona, the driver at fault for the car accident is responsible for paying for damages. Arizona follows an “at-fault” system, which means the at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers the costs of repairs through their liability coverage. You can also file a claim with your own insurance if you have collision coverage, but you may need to pay your deductible upfront, which could later be reimbursed if the other driver is found at fault.

How long do most car accident settlements take in Phoenix?

Most car accident settlements in Phoenix take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The exact timeline depends on factors like the severity of the injuries, the complexity of the accident, the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate, and whether a lawsuit is filed. Simple cases can settle quickly, while cases involving serious injuries or disputes may take a year or more to resolve.

Can I lose my house due to an at-fault car accident in Phoenix, AZ?

Yes, it is possible to lose personal assets, including your house, if you are at fault for a car accident and do not have enough insurance coverage. If the damages exceed your insurance limits, the injured party can sue you personally to recover the remaining costs. To protect yourself, it’s important to carry enough liability insurance and consider an umbrella insurance policy for added protection.

Is the registered owner of a car liable for an accident in Phoenix?

Yes, the registered owner of a car can be held liable in certain situations. If the owner allows someone else to drive their car and that driver causes an accident, the owner’s insurance policy will typically cover the damages. Additionally, if the owner knowingly lets an unlicensed, reckless, or impaired driver use their vehicle, they could be held directly responsible under “negligent entrustment” laws in Arizona. Your Arizona car accident lawyer at Thompson Law can help answer your questions about what party – or parties – may be liable for your accident injuries.