Yuma Car Accident Lawyers

Motor vehicle collisions in Yuma, Arizona, may lead to traumatic injuries resulting in significant emotional, physical, and financial losses. The aftermath of car wrecks may often leave injured parties dealing with mounting medical bills and wage loss. Unfortunately, dealing with insurance companies may complicate matters further, as insurers often attempt to dispute claims and minimize payouts. By retaining legal counsel after a car accident, you can level the playing field against difficult insurers and ensure that your rights are protected.

A Yuma auto accident attorney can advocate for your rights and help ensure that you receive the compensation needed to rebuild your life after a crash.

How is Fault Determined in a Car Wreck in Arizona?

To establish liability in a motor vehicle collision, various types of evidence can be crucial in building a strong case against the opposing party. This evidence may include photos of the crash site, damage to involved vehicles, and eyewitness statements that provide firsthand and unbiased accounts of the incident. Additionally, traffic camera footage, police reports, and photos of visible injuries from the crash can further support a claim for damages. It is important to gather and preserve evidence of a Yuma car accident immediately before the evidence is lost or destroyed.

Who Can Be Held Liable in the Case of a Motor Vehicle Collision?

An experienced injury attorney can determine whether additional parties may be held liable for a car wreck. Your lawyer will conduct an in-depth investigation into various factors of the incident, such as whether the other vehicle was owned by someone other than the driver, if the motorist was acting within the scope of their employment, if there was negligent entrustment of the car, and other relevant circumstances. Take action now – reach out to a skilled attorney who can build a strong case for your Yuma car accident and explore all potential sources of financial recovery.

Who Pays for Medical Bills and Other Losses from an Accident?

The insurance company representing the individual or entity responsible for the crash usually covers the damages incurred. There are two types of recoverable damages: economic and non-economic. Economic damages refer to the measurable financial losses incurred due to the incident, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, wage loss, diminished earning capacity, and out-of-pocket expenses related to the crash. Non-economic damages encompass losses that are not easily quantifiable, such as mental anguish, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium.

What if the At-Fault Driver Does Not Have Enough Auto Insurance for the Crash?

In Arizona, the state’s minimum auto insurance limits are $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per traffic collision, and $15,000 for property damage. Unfortunately, these minimums often fall short of covering the true costs of medical treatment, wage loss, and property damage, especially in serious car accidents. In such situations, having underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can be invaluable, as it can help bridge the gap between what the at-fault driver’s insurance covers and the actual costs of your recovery, up to your policy’s UIM limits.

What if the Other Driver Fled the Scene of the Car Wreck?

If the at-fault driver left the scene of a motor vehicle collision without exchanging contact and insurance information, it may complicate the process of recovering compensation for your injuries and losses. In such cases, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may come into play, as it is designed to protect drivers and passengers in situations where the at-fault party lacks coverage or is unidentified. While UM coverage is optional to carry for Arizona auto insurance policies, having it is important to protect yourself from losses in the event of a crash with a driver without insurance.

To successfully claim under your UM coverage for a hit-and-run accident, there must be clear and compelling evidence demonstrating that the incident actually occurred. This may include eyewitness statements, photos of the crash site, surveillance footage from nearby cameras, and any damage to your vehicle that aligns with the collision. A police report is important for documenting the incident and substantiating a claim for damages. For more information, reach out to an experienced Yuma auto accident attorney for a free consultation.

Why Would Punitive Damages Be Awarded in a Car Accident Case?

Punitive damages serve a specific purpose of punishing the opposing party for egregious behavior and deter similar actions in the future. Unlike compensatory damage, which is intended to cover the plaintiff’s actual losses, punitive damages are reserved for rare cases where the at-fault party’s actions were deemed to be particularly egregious. In the case of a traffic collision, your attorney may seek punitive damages from the defendant if there is clear evidence proving that they were driving while intoxicated or excessively speeding in the moments leading to the crash.

How Long is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in AZ?

Generally, an injured party must file a lawsuit within two years of the date of the incident if a settlement has not yet been reached. The lawsuit must be filed within the time limit to ensure that the statute is protected and that the case is not dismissed by the court. Exceptions may apply to the two-year deadline. For example, a notice of claim must be filed within six months if a case names a government agency a defendant. To determine the applicable statute of limitations for your specific situation, it is important to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer in Yuma.

Do You Need an Attorney for a Car Accident in Yuma, Arizona?

An injured party is often at a significant disadvantage against insurance companies without the representation of an experienced injury lawyer. Major insurance carriers prioritize minimizing payouts to maximize profit margins, employing aggressive claims adjusters and defense counsel to challenge seemingly straightforward claims. To protect your rights and navigate the complexities of the claims process, it is important to work with an attorney who has the experience, skills, and resources to effectively manage and litigate your case, if necessary.

How Much Does an Injury Lawyer Cost in AZ?

Most lawyers handle personal injury cases for motor vehicle collisions on a contingency fee basis. This means that clients do not pay upfront costs to hire an attorney to handle their case. Instead, the lawyer receives a percentage of the settlement or award if the case is successful. In some cases, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit if a mutual settlement agreement cannot be reached with the insurer. It is important to note that when a lawsuit is filed, the costs of legal representation typically increase. For more details, contact an experienced attorney near you.

How Soon Should I Contact an Attorney After a Crash?

It is recommended that an injured party retains legal counsel immediately to protect their rights and best interests. The timing and type of treatment received, as well as the swift collection of evidence from the crash site, notarized statements from eyewitnesses, and documentation of medical recovery, all play a significant role in a personal injury case. By hiring an attorney soon after a car accident in Yuma, Arizona, you can improve your chances of receiving a favorable result in your case. Call or submit an online contact form to schedule your free case review today.

Why Choose Southwest Injury Law for Your Case

Selecting the right law firm can greatly influence the success of a Yuma car accident case. At Southwest Injury Law, we focus exclusively on personal injury. Serving clients across Arizona, our legal team is committed to delivering personalized support and guidance, ensuring that each client receives regular case updates as they occur and being available to answer any questions they may have. With our experience, skills, and resources, you can feel confident that your case is in good hands, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we seek maximum compensation and justice.

Contact a Yuma Car Accident Lawyer Today

Motor vehicle collisions may be incredibly traumatic events that lead to physical injuries, emotional distress, and significant financial hardship for those involved. If you are ready to share the story about your crash with a Yuma auto accident attorney, call (602) 777-3300 to schedule your free consultation today. We can review your potential case, explain your rights, and go over your options moving forward. Our personal injury law firm proudly serves clients in Yuma County and throughout the state of Arizona.