The most recent data on uninsured car accidents shows that about one in eight drivers is uninsured, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). This is a problem for drivers in Arizona who are in a car accident with an irresponsible driver that is uninsured or underinsured.
If you or a loved one were in a car accident with another driver who was uninsured or underinsured, a lawyer may be helpful for navigating this tough situation. Contact the lawyers at Ben Crump Law, PLLC to request a consultation with a Phoenix uninsured car accident lawyer. Get in touch with a member of our team today, when you call us at (844) 730-0233.
Arizona Insurance Rules
Arizona is one state of many that requires each driver to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance in order to drive. There are the same minimum requirements through insurance companies for cars, golf carts, motorcycles, and mopeds, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation. The financial requirements are as follows:
- $25,000 for one person’s bodily injury liability
- $50,000 for two or more people
- $15,000 property damage liability
Although Arizona law requires the minimum insurance coverage above, not all drivers are adequately covered. Additionally, drivers from outside of the area may not carry the same required liability coverage as in-state residents.
When Arizona residents drive without insurance, there are a number of different consequences they may face, from fines, to license suspension, to jail time. However, this does not guarantee that such drivers will be confronted before a lack of insurance coverage becomes an issue.
Compensation Options
Arizona insurance rules follow a fault system, which means that other parties can hold the driver at fault for any damages caused. However, this does not guarantee that any given driver will have the funds available to pay out damages after such an accident. Since medical bills from serious injuries after a car accident can easily rise into the thousands, it is important to understand your options for compensation.
Normally, the at-fault rules of Arizona make claiming compensation a straightforward process. This is one method to keep smaller damage claims after an accident out of courtrooms, and in the hands of the drivers. However, the option to go to court for cases that cannot be settled is always an option.
You can typically pursue damages for medical costs and property damage from the liable party’s insurance policy. When the driver is uninsured or underinsured, your next options for pursuing compensation are through your own insurance policy under any uninsured liability benefits, or filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC to see how a Phoenix uninsured car accident lawyer can help with the filing and claims process when dealing with the aftermath of a car accident. The lawyers at Ben Crump Law, PLLC are waiting to defend victims of uninsured car accidents.
For a free legal consultation with a uninsured car accidents lawyer serving Phoenix, call (844) 730-0233
Legal Advice for Uninsured Accidents
While Arizona law holds that drivers need to stop and report serious damage or injuries after a car accident, there may be some flexibility in officially making a claim that adequately addresses your unique problems. A lawyer can help you file all required documentation to build your case from the start.
You should always keep the statute of limitations in mind when determining if a lawsuit is the right choice for you. In Arizona, you have up to two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, so the sooner you file your case, the better. In some cases, the statute of limitations begins when you discover an injury that became apparent later than this. The best way to know for sure is to consult with someone who is familiar with Arizona laws and limitations.
Comparative Negligence
Arizona law accounts for possible nuances in personal injury and property damage cases. This is known as comparative negligence, which is the theory that each party involved in an accident may have some degree of fault. When it comes to claims and legal cases, insurance companies will consider comparative negligence when determining how to proceed with payment for any given damage cost.
In other words, you will be responsible for as much damage as you cause in a car accident. Comparative negligence does not prevent victims of car accidents from seeking additional compensation for their injuries.
Compensable Damages
Car accident victims should be able to provide a list of real damages to the liable party. This includes all quantitative costs for the following:
- Seeking medical treatment immediately after the accident
- Follow-up care for related injuries suffered long-term
- Lost income, or loss of ability to work due to injuries
- Funeral costs for people who died unnecessarily from the accident
- Non-bodily injuries, like damage to your car or valuables destroyed in the accident
The list of damages above is not exhaustive of all potential compensatory damages, but it is a start. People who drive without insurance may do so to cut the costs of driving, but the long-term costs of paying for accidents can easily outweigh the benefits of saving that small amount of money. Ultimately, when liable drivers cause car accidents, they will be on the hook for as much or as little of the damage as you pursue.
The role of a Phoenix uninsured car accident lawyer is to help you reach a certain settlement or desired resolution. The lawyers at Ben Crump Law, PLLC can recommend the actions you take to protect and defend your rights after these complicated accidents happen. Contact our offices today to begin building a case that suits your needs at (844) 730-0233.
Phoenix Uninsured Car Accident Lawyer Near Me (844) 730-0233
Legal Representation from Ben Crump Law, PLLC
Victims of car accidents can always benefit from seeking the help of a lawyer. People who drive without insurance may not perceive the dangers before a serious accident happens, but that does not undo the damages that you suffer.
Simplify the litigation process by working with Ben Crump Law, PLLC. Understanding your potential legal options is the first step towards making a full recovery.
Call or text (844) 730-0233 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
