What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Arizona?
Generally, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit in Arizona
What if my claim is against an Arizona government entity?
Claims against a city, county, or state entity have a much shorter deadline: you must file a formal Notice of Claim within 180 days and a lawsuit within one year.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you were 99% at fault, though your award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
What are the "Tier" levels in Arizona personal injury lawsuits?
Arizona uses a tiered system for civil cases based on value: Tier 1 (up to $50,000), Tier 2 ($50,000–$300,000), and Tier 3 (over $300,000), which dictates the complexity and duration of the discovery process.
Is there a limit on how much I can recover for pain and suffering?
Unlike some other states, the Arizona Constitution prohibits laws that limit the amount of damages you can recover for personal injury or death.
What is the "Discovery Rule" in Arizona?
This rule may extend the statute of limitations if your injury was not immediately apparent; the two-year clock begins when you reasonably should have discovered the injury.
What types of damages can I recover in my claim?
You may be entitled to economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement).
How do I pay my medical bills while my case is pending?
Your attorney can often work with medical providers to accept a medical lien, allowing you to receive treatment now and pay from your final settlement.
How much is my case worth?
Value depends on injury severity, total medical costs, lost income, and the insurance coverage available.
What should I do immediately after an accident?
Seek medical care, report the incident to the police, take photos of the scene and injuries, and avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters.
How long does it take to settle a personal injury case in Arizona?
While some cases settle in a few months, complex litigation or cases involving serious injuries can take two years or longer.
Will my case have to go to trial?
Most personal injury cases (approximately 95%) settle before reaching a trial.
Should I talk to the other driver's insurance company?
No. You should avoid speaking with the at-fault party's insurer before consulting a lawyer, as they may use your statements to reduce your claim's value.
How long do insurance companies have to respond to a claim?
In Arizona, insurers generally must adjudicate "clean claims" within 30 days of receipt.
Do I have a case if I don’t feel hurt right away?
Yes. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries (like soft tissue damage or concussions) take days to manifest. It is vital to see a doctor immediately.
Can I file a claim for a dog bite in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona has strict liability laws for dog bites, meaning an owner is often liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
What if the at-fault driver doesn't have insurance?
You may be able to recover compensation through your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage if you have it on your policy.
Can social media affect my claim?
Yes. Insurance companies often monitor profiles to find evidence that contradicts your injury claims. Arizona courts allow for specific, relevant content to be used as evidence during discovery.
