How Much Do Insurance Companies Pay for Car Accidents?
When you get injured in a car accident in Arizona, you can seek compensation for your losses. You could file an insurance claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer or file a lawsuit against the driver. While each avenue could get you a settlement, most car accident victims prefer to avoid the risk of a trial. They instead seek damages from the insurance company.
Usually, the insurance company will make a settlement offer, which your attorney will either accept or reject. The two parties will then negotiate until they reach an agreement. But, exactly how much do insurance companies pay for car accidents?
If you have been injured in a car accident through no fault of your own, discuss your legal options with a Tucson Personal Injury Attorney.
Arizona’s Fault-Based System
In Arizona, financial responsibility for car accident-related losses is determined based on a fault system. Essentially, the driver who caused the accident is liable for any medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering suffered by the victim. Their insurer will usually cover these damages up to a specified policy limit.
If you get injured in a car accident in the state, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The company will process your claim and either deny it or offer a settlement amount. You can then accept or negotiate the suggested amount.
If negotiations with the insurance company fail, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver.
Mandatory Liability Insurance Law
Because of the fault system, the state requires that all operational motor vehicles be covered by liability insurance through an authorized company. This includes cars, motorcycles, trucks, and even golf carts. The set minimum amounts of insurance coverage are:
- $30,000 for bodily injury or death in an accident caused by the driver of the insured vehicle
- $15,000 for bodily injury or death of another person caused by the owner of the insured vehicle
- $10,000 for property damage in every accident caused by the driver of the insured vehicle
This coverage extends to passengers and pedestrians harmed by the driver of the insured vehicle. It pays for medical costs, property damage, and other accident-related costs.
While these minimum amounts are mandatory, drivers can choose to carry more coverage. This can help cover damages cropping from extensive property damage and severe injuries.
Comparative Negligence
The at-fault driver’s insurance company may not always be liable for 100 percent of the damages in a car accident. Where you are partially to blame for a crash, your claim will be subjected to comparative negligence. For instance, if you were to receive $100,000 from the insurance company but are found to be 30 percent at fault, you will receive $70,000.
Consult a Tucson Personal Injury Attorney Today
Generally, the answer to how much do insurance companies pay for car accidents is ‘it depends.’ The payout for a minor fender bender will be significantly less than that of a wrongful death claim. You can work with an expert attorney to determine the damages you are owed.
At Karnas Law Firm, we strive to protect the rights of car accident victims. We have extensive experience in dealing with insurance companies and can get you the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys will also go to trial if your case requires it.
Has a negligent driver injured you? Contact us today to speak to an expert Tucson Personal Injury Attorney.
CALL NOW: 520.462.3886