9 Most Frequently Asked Questions – Arizona Car Accidents

Do I need to come to your office to start my accident case?

No. In 2011, I offered virtual legal services for the first time. Even before 2020, you could open and complete your entire case from the comfort of your home.

Do I need Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Yes, underinsured motorist coverage is the most beneficial type of insurance you can buy.

Underinsured coverage will pay for your medical bills and pain and suffering if the driver who hit you did not have enough insurance.

Uninsured coverage will pay your bills if the driver who hit you had no insurance.

Do I still have a case if the other driver did not get a ticket?

Yes. You can still pursue an injury claim if the other driver was at fault. Unless the police actually saw the accident while it was happening, a ticket is only what the police documented in their report.

It can help if the other driver gets a ticket, but it’s not definitive.

What is the best thing you can do to help strengthen your accident case?

Two things. Seek medical attention immediately or as soon as possible after the accident. Second, make sure you attend regular appointments with your chiropractor, physical therapist, etc.

Delay and gaps in treatment are the number one reasons insurance companies devalue cases.

Who pays to get my car fixed?

It depends. The driver’s insurance company that hit you must pay for your car damage.

However, you can get your car fixed or replaced much faster and with less stress, if you have your own insurance company take care of your car. Then your insurance company will get their money back from the liable driver.

Does the insurance company pay my medical bills directly?

No. When your case settles, and you receive your settlement check, you are responsible for paying any outstanding medical bills out of the settlement.

Will I lose my claim if I’m partially at fault?

No. In Arizona, you will not lose your claim if you are partially at fault for the accident or your injuries. This most often comes up if you are not wearing your seatbelt. If you’re not wearing your seatbelt, your case could be reduced by 50%, but you don’t lose your case completely.

Do I really need a lawyer for my accident case?

Yes. Unless you’re in an accident and thankfully you only have $1,000 or $2,000 in medical bills, you don’t need a lawyer.

However, you should hire a lawyer if you have medical bills over that amount or some other extraordinary circumstance.

Does the IRS tax the settlement money I received?

No. Under Federal law, the IRS does not tax the money you get in a car accident case. One notable exception is if you receive money for “Punitive damages” in your case.

Punitive dames are money to punish the at-fault driver. It usually comes up in a case where the driver who hit you was drunk.

Bonus: Arizona Criminal Law Question and Answer

Can I get my Criminal conviction erased in Arizona?

No. As of this writing in July 2022, Arizona does not have a law that seals your old criminal conviction.

HOWEVER, on January 1, 2023, you will be able to get your old criminal case sealed. (Just like juvenile records are sealed at eighteen.)

If you have any questions, please call anytime!

Derron