Tucson Car Accident Lawyer

What Happens After  a Car Accident

Unexpected car accidents can leave you in a world of hurt, both physically and financially. Particularly, devastating injuries can leave you incapable of returning to your old quality of life or even getting back to the job that allowed you to maintain your quality of life. As you grapple with treating your injuries, dozens of worries may flood your mind. How will I pay for treatment? Will I be able to return to work? Will I ever achieve a full recovery? That is where we come in!

If you’ve been the victim of a recent car accident, you should know that there are trusted car accident attorneys in Tucson that you can turn to for help. An experienced Tucson car accident lawyer can help you overcome the aftermath of an accident as smoothly as possible. They can use their competence and confidence to build a strong case in your favor and earn you the maximum settlement allowed for your injuries under Arizona law. They can do that by working with your insurance company or the responsible parties. Either way, our attorney’s can help you with your car accident claim.

At Karnas Law Firm, we understand you’re going through a stressful time. Our accident attorneys are committed to fighting against injustice and making sure that we have a good attorney client relationship. With more than 50 years of experience, we have recovered over $50 million in damages for our clients. Let us put our skills to use in recovering the compensation you need to get back on track.

Here’s how to find us!

Be Proactive: Know the Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Tucson, Arizona

A serious car crash can change your entire life in mere seconds. Accidents are reported on our roads every single day. They remain a leading cause of preventable injuries in our region. According to data from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), there were 121,345 motor vehicle collisions officially reported in the state in 2021. In Pima County alone, there were 10,872 car accidents and 5,432 car accident injuries reported in 2021. You need to know how to protect yourself and your rights after a major crash. Here are key steps to take after an accident in Tucson. 

• Stop Your Car and Exchange Information: If you are involved in a car accident in Tucson, Arizona, the first thing you should do is stop your car and make sure everyone involved is okay. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. If there are no injuries, you should exchange information with the other driver(s) involved. This includes your name, contact information, insurance information, and the make and model of your car. You should also take down the same information for the other driver(s).
• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: All car accident injuries in Tucson should be evaluated by a doctor. To be clear, emergency medical needs always come first. Call 911. Though, you still need medical care even if you don’t think you are injured. Some injuries, such as whiplash or a concussion, may not present symptoms until hours or even days after the accident. Further, you cannot get compensation without medical records. 
• Report the Crash to Law Enforcement: If the car accident caused injury, death, or property damage over $1,000, you are required to report the crash to law enforcement. You can do this by calling the Tucson Police Department, Pima County Sheriff’s Office, or the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The officers will create a report of the accident, which can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or seek compensation.
• Document the Motor Vehicle Crash: You will be in a far better position to get justice and compensation after a serious car accident if you proactively document the collision. Beyond exchanging information with other parties involved in the collision, make sure you take pictures of the crash damage, get witness contact details, and otherwise document the scene.
• Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurer: You should not trust a big insurance company to look out for what is best for you and your family. After a car accident, you may receive calls from insurance adjusters or other representatives from the other driver’s insurance company. It is important to be careful when speaking to these individuals, as they may try to get you to settle for less than you are entitled to. Before speaking to an insurer, make sure you consult with an experienced Tucson auto accident attorney.

Car Crashes are One of the Most Common Causes of Accidental Injuries in Tucson

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), there were 6,190 motor vehicle collisions reported in the City of Tucson in 2021 alone. There were more than 4,700 reported crashes elsewhere in Pima County during the same time period, including in Marana, Oro Valley, and South Tucson. Altogether 3,360 people were injured and 91 people were killed in motor vehicle collisions in the city in 2021. This makes car accidents one of the leading causes of accidental injuries and accidental deaths in our region. 

We Handle All Types of Motor Vehicle Collision Claims in Tucson, AZ

Hurt in a crash in a Tucson or anywhere else in Pima County? Even if you are a safe, attentive, and highly skilled driver, it is something that can happen. Our law firm helps injured victims put the pieces back together after a serious accident. At Karnas Law Firm, PLLC, we handle all types of traffic collision cases. No matter what happened, why it happened, or the severity of your injuries, it is our mission to protect your rights and interests. Along with other types of motor vehicle accident claims, our Tucson attorneys have the professional skills and legal expertise to assist you with: 

• Car accidents; 
• Pedestrian collisions;
• Bike accidents; 
• Motorcycle crashes;
• Large truck accidents; 
• Delivery driver accidents; 
• Other commercial vehicle crashes; 
• Ridesharing accidents (Uber & Lyft); 
• Drunk driving crashes; 
• Hit-and-run collisions; and 
• Uninsured motorist claims. 

Common Car Accident Cases in Tucson

Whether a minor car accident or a major one, they usually happen due to someones negligence. As a car accident victim, you are entitled to compensation to help offset the effects of enduring significant losses after the personal injury caused by the car wreck. Traumatic car accidents in Tucson can lead to several serious injuries, some of which may be debilitating for life. Common car accident injuries include:

• Back injuries.
• Head trauma and brain injuries.
• Spinal cord injuries.
• Cuts, lacerations, bruises, and scrapes.
• Fractured bones.
• Soft tissue injuries.
• Concussions.
• Knee injuries.
• Facial disfigurement.

Overcoming injuries sustained in a car accident can be a job in itself. To fully recover, you need to be able to dedicate as much time as possible to healing your body and doing what it takes to regain your physical strength. When you work with our Tucson car accident attorneys, they will be able to take charge of the legal aspects of your settlement case so you can put all of your energy into returning to your normal life.

Car Crashes Happen for Many Different Reasons—Most are Caused By Human Error

Car crashes are a common occurrence and happen for a variety of reasons. Every serious motor vehicle collision in Tucson should be carefully investigated and evaluated to determine what happened and why it happened. That being said, the overwhelming majority of car wrecks are preventable. A comprehensive analysis cited by Stanford Law School found that 9 in 10 crashes were caused, at least in part, by human error. Other studies have put that figure at an even higher number. Some of the leading causes of auto accidents include: 

• Speeding; 
• Running red lights; 
• Running stop signs; 
• Distracted driving; 
• Texting while driving; 
• Drowsy driving (fatigued);
• Intoxicated driving; 
• Poor road design; 
• Adverse weather conditions; and
• Vehicle malfunctions (automotive defects).

How to Prove Fault

To bring a successful car accident claim, you will need to establish fault for the collision. To accomplish that goal, you will typically need evidence that shows the driver who struck you was insufficiently careful.

There are many types of evidence, and you hopefully gathered some of it at the accident scene. For example, you can rely on:

• Eyewitness testimony. Someone who saw the crash can provide testimony about what happened. Someone standing on the sidewalk could have seen a driver plow into the back of your car while you were stopped at a light. Or another passenger in a vehicle could have seen a driver make an illegal U-turn can hit you. These eyewitnesses are especially credible if they aren’t related to any of the parties.
• Video footage. Some accidents are caught on camera. For example, your car might have a dash cam. Or a nearby business could have a surveillance camera pointed at the street. This video footage helps us see quite easily how the accident happened.
• Physical evidence. The damage on the car or skid marks on the road can help us establish how the vehicles came together. That helps us establish fault.
• Statements made by a driver. The driver who hit you might come out and admit fault, especially immediately after the accident. You can use these statements.

There could be other evidence available. Meet with a Tucson car accident lawyer.

Coping With Medical Bills After You’ve Been Injured in an Accident

After suffering a serious injury, you can easily accumulate thousands upon thousands of dollars worth of debt from medical bills, bills for ongoing treatment after your hospital stay, costs associated with fixing your car, lost income, and more. Our car accident attorneys thoroughly investigate each case, diving into the details of your injuries so that they can secure compensation for your past, present, and future medical costs. With the help of one of our attorneys, you could recover compensation for the physical and emotional costs associated with your injuries. An attorney can help you recover for:

• Medical Expenses
• Lost Wages
• Property Damage
• Pain and Suffering
• Lost earning Capacity
• …and more.

Following an accident, there is a multitude of documentation and bills to sift through. If you’re unsure of the settlement you’re entitled to, a knowledgeable car accident attorney will be able to review your case and devise a plan to get you the cash you deserve. While far more car accident injury claims are resolved through settlement than through a trial verdict, the reality is that litigation is always a possibility. Our trial-tested Tucson car accident lawyers are always ready to take your case the distance to get you and your family justice and the maximum compensation.

What Compensation Exists for Tucson Car Accident Victims?

When an accident takes place, the insurance company of the at-fault driver will go to extensive lengths to pay out as little as possible for costs associated with the accident. If you sustained injuries or experienced pain and suffering from an automobile accident, it’s vital to understand the tactics insurance companies use to get ahead.

Immediately after an accident, insurance adjusters will try to contact you to downplay the severity of your situation and avoid paying claims. They might even be quick to offer you what seems like an advantageous settlement. But, don’t be fooled. The first settlement offered by an insurance adjuster is often much less than what you deserve and will leave you hurting financially in the long term.

The best way to get the settlement you deserve is to partner with an experienced car accident lawyer. In fact, it’s in your best interest to never accept a settlement without speaking to a trusted car accident attorney first.

Calculating the Value of Your Settlement

Many victims naturally wonder how much they can receive. They might have sky-high medical bills or be unable to work for months.

There is no general formula used to calculate the settlement value of a claim. Instead, we review your economic damages, like lost income, medical bills, and car damage:

• Ambulance fees
• Surgical costs
• Prescription medication
• Prosthetics, like a wheelchair
• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy
• Doctor visits
• Transportation cost to visit the doctor
• Repair estimates for your car
• Lost self-employment income, including lost gig work

Then we add a fair amount to cover your physical pain, emotional distress, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life. A “fair” amount for these non-economic damages is subjective. But we push to obtain the most possible for your injuries.

Someone who suffers an amputation or paralysis will undoubtedly have more valuable claims than someone whose whiplash clears up in a month. But each case is different. We also must consider your proportionate fault, which we discuss in more detail below.

An Overview of Car Accident Laws in Arizona

Following a car accident in Tucson, it is normal to feel stressed out, frustrated, and not sure of exactly what to do next. It is important that you know your rights under the law. Here are some of the key points to understand about the car accident liability laws in Arizona: 

Arizona is a Fault-Based Car Crash Liability State:

Some U.S. jurisdictions have no-fault auto accident laws in place. Arizona is not one of those states. In Arizona, liability for a car crash is based on fault. For this reason, it is absolutely essential that every serious crash in Tucson is carefully investigated. The party who caused the accident through their negligence—failure to proper care—can be held liable for the damages. 

Liability is Propionate to Degree of Fault (Comparative (Negligence):

It is not especially uncommon for multiple parties to be found at-fault for the same car crash in Arizona. An injured victim may even be partially responsible for their own crash. In these cases, financial recovery is still possible. Under A.R.S. § 12-2505, car accident liability is handled based on pure comparative negligence. Each party is responsible for their “share” of the blame for a collision. If a speeding driver in Tucson is found to be 60 percent liable for a crash, they will bear responsibility for 60 percent of the damages. 

The Statute of Limitations is Two Years:

Under Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 12-542, there is a two year statute of limitations for car accident claims. You must file a claim within two years of the date of the crash. What happens if you fail to bring a timely personal injury case for a car accident? You could be denied a chance to get compensation at all. Do not wait to get started with the process: Consult with a Tuscon, AZ auto accident attorney as soon as possible after a serious collision. 

How to Deal With the Insurance Company After a Serious Crash in Tucson, Arizona 

How do you get compensation to pay your bills after a car accident? In most cases, you will need to file a claim with an insurance company—even your own insurer or another party’s liability policy. It is never easy to deal with an insurance company. These large corporations are motivated by a profit incentive. They want to resolve cases for less. It is absolutely critical that car accident victims in Tucson know how to take on the insurance companies. Here are actionable tips you can use: 

• Know that Insurance Adjusters are Protecting the Company: First and foremost, you need to know that the insurance adjusters are never on your side. Big corporations train their representatives to be friendly and disarming—but their mission is to find a way to settle a claim for less or maybe even deny a claim outright.  
• Avoid Consenting to a Recorded Statement: An insurance adjuster may request that you give a recorded statement about your car accident. You should not give a statement to an opposing insurance carrier without speaking to a Tucson attorney. A statement could be used against you in court. Words can get twisted and could easily harm your case. Politely decline the request for a recorded statement. Let your lawyer handle any communication with the insurance company.
• Never Speculate About Your Crash or Your Insurance: One of the most common mistakes that people make when dealing with insurance companies is getting caught speculating about their crash or their injuries. Avoid it. Do not speculate about the cause of the crash or the extent of your injuries. Never make any assumptions or guesses. 
• Be Patient—An Insurer May Lead With a Lowball Settlement: Insurance companies may initially offer a lowball settlement in an attempt to quickly resolve the case. That quick settlement offer may not be a full and fair settlement offer. Make sure that you understand the full scope of your damages—medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc—so that you know the true value of your case. 
• Work With a Top Tucson Car Accident Attorney: Retaining the services of a top Tucson car accident attorney can greatly increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. An aggressive Tucson car accident attorney can handle all communication with the insurance company, negotiate a fair settlement, and, if necessary, take your case to court. 

How Long Does It Take to Get a Car Accident Settlement in Tucson, AZ?

The correct answer is that it depends. If you and the insurance company agree on all facts, then you can settle quite easily—in a matter of months, actually. But there are usually some common snags that delay agreement:

• Disagreements about fault. The other driver might blame you totally for the crash by claiming you cut him off. By contrast, you think the other driver was tailgating and that’s why he slammed into your rear end. The only way to resolve this type of dispute is to gather as much evidence of the crash as possible, which takes time.
• Disagreements about the severity of your injuries. An insurer might refuse to offer fair compensation because they discount your physical pain or emotional distress.

Ideally, we can settle a case in six months. That allows you to get access to compensation to cover your bills and begin putting the pieces of your life back together. But where disagreements persist, we might need to file a lawsuit in court, which can take over a year to get to a jury.

Why Hire the Tucson, AZ Auto Accident Lawyers at the Karnas Law Firm

Motorcycle accident injury claims are highly complicated. You do not have to go up against negligent defendants and insurance companies alone. At The Karnas Law Firm, we provide the high quality, results-oriented legal representation that you can rely on. When you reach out to our Tucson law office, you will have a chance to speak to an Arizona motorcycle accident attorney who can: 

• Hear your story, review your case, and explain your rights/options;
• Investigate the motorcycle crash—gathering the evidence you need to move forward; 
• Handle legal paperwork and settlement discussions with insurers; and
• Take action to help you get justice and the maximum financial settlement.

The experienced team of auto accident attorneys at Karnas Law Firm has more than 25 years of experience working on cases like yours. With their top-rated practice, they have helped more than 10,000 individuals and families earn the settlements they deserve. This experience sets us apart from other firms. Whereas some lawyers handle one or two car accidents a year, we have tackled every conceivable type of car accident case. This type of experience lets us efficiently tackle the legal work and negotiate a favorable settlement. We are not learning car accident law on the fly. We are leveraging decades of experience to your benefit.

We represent car accident victims on a contingency fee basis—meaning we will not accept payment until you get paid. There are no upfront costs or out of pocket fees.

Car Accident Claims in Tucson: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it Important to See a Licensed Physician to Bring an Auto Accident Injury Claim?

Yes. Medical records serve as key evidence in an injury claim and can help to establish the extent of your injuries and the impact they have had on your daily life. Without medical documentation, it is virtually impossible to prove the extent of your injuries and recover fair compensation. Be sure to seek professional medical attention promptly after a crash. Otherwise, you may not be in a position to recover the full and fair financial compensation that you deserve. 

How Strict is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Crash Injury Claim in Arizona?

The statute of limitations for a car accident injury claim in Arizona is generally two years from the date of the accident. If the statute of limitations runs out, you may no longer be able to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as if the injury was not immediately apparent or if the injured party was a minor at the time of the accident. However, these exceptions are narrow. They should never be relied upon. Protect yourself and your legal claim: Consult with a Tucson car accident lawyer right away after a serious crash.

Where Do Most Tucson Accidents Happen?

A car accident can happen anywhere in Tucson—on the freeway, on a quiet side street, in a parking lot, or a driveway. Negligent drivers are literally everywhere in the city.

According to the Tucson Police Department, the most dangerous intersections are:

• Alvernon and 22nd Street
• Grant and Tanque Verde
• Golf Links and Swan
• Grant and Tanque Verde
• Oracle and Wetmore
• Fort Lowell and 1st Avenue
• Irvington and Campbell
• Nogales and Valencia

Drivers should exercise extreme caution when approaching any intersection.

How Do I Know If the Insurer is Offering a Fair Settlement?

Determining if the insurer is offering a fair settlement can be difficult, especially if you are not familiar with the process and the full extent of your damages. A fair settlement should cover all of your economic and non-economic losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. You do not have to figure this out alone. Our top-rated Tucson, AZ car accident lawyers are standing by, ready to help you take action to maximize your settlement offer.  

What are Your Options If You are Hurt in a Hit-and-Run Crash?

Any car crash is frustrating—even more so if the other driver does not stop. If you are hurt in a hit-and-run crash, you have several options for pursuing a legal claim. Depending on your specific circumstances, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. If the hit-and-run driver is found, you may be able to file a claim with their insurance company or take legal action against them directly. If the driver cannot be located, you may still be able to recover compensation through other sources. Our Tucson car accident lawyer will review your case and help you explore every option to recover compensation. 

Can I Bring a Car Accident Claim for My Child’s Injuries?

Yes, you can bring a car accident claim for your child’s injuries in Arizona. Indeed, it is the role of the parent or guardian to take action on behalf of their child. A minor cannot bring a claim on their own. However, there are some special rules that apply in these types of cases. For example, a car accident injury settlement that has been reached on behalf of a child (minor) needs to be approved by a court in Arizona. Child injury claims are especially complicated. Our Tucson auto accident lawyers have the specialized knowledge and expertise to protect you, your child, and your family. 

How Do I Hold a Vehicle Manufacturer Liable for a Car Accident?

When a car accident happens because of or is made worse by a vehicle defect (automotive defect), the manufacturer may be legally liable through a product liability claim. To hold a vehicle manufacturer liable, you must show that the vehicle was defectively designed, manufactured, or marketed, and that this defect was the cause of your injury. These are among the most complex types of car accident injury claims. Our Tucson car accident attorneys can help you take action to hold a manufacturer accountable for harm caused by vehicle defects. 

Our Experienced Tucson Accident Attorneys are Here to Help

If you’re ready to work with a law firm that is Lead Counsel Rated and recognized for its exceptional and outstanding client service, call (520) 462-3886 or contact us online to discuss your car accident case for free. At Karnas Law Firm, we are standing by, ready to get started on your case. From our law office in Tucson, we handle auto accident injury claims throughout Pima County, including in Casas Adobes, Catalina Foothills, Marana, Oro Valley, Sahuarita, Drexel Heights, and Green Valley.

Testimonial

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“By far the most professional law firm I have dealt with! Very friendly and inviting! Did a great job in getting my case settled swiftly without any issues! I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a great law firm!!”

Richard K.