June 25, 2026 | Car Accidents

How Common Are Car Accidents in Arizona?

Car accidents are a serious problem in Arizona. While some crashes only cause vehicle damage, many lead to painful injuries, costly medical care, and long recovery periods. In severe cases, families lose loved ones on roads they travel every day.

Keep reading to learn more about how common car accidents are in Arizona, common causes, and what to do if you get into a crash.

How Many Crashes Happen in Arizona Each Year?

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation’s most current data, there were 121,107 total motor vehicle crashes in Arizona in 2024. 

Those crashes included:

  • 1,117 fatal crashes
  • 37,376 injury crashes
  • 82,614 property-damage-only crashes

Those crashes caused 54,426 injuries and 1,228 deaths. That means about 149 people were injured every day, and one person was hurt about every 10 minutes.

These numbers show that most crashes do not cause fatal injuries. However, even a “minor” crash can still lead to whiplash, back pain, broken bones, concussions, and emotional stress.

Why Do So Many Crashes Happen in Arizona?

Car accidents can happen for many reasons. However, most crashes involve some form of human error.

Common causes include:

Arizona’s roads can also be dangerous because of long rural highways, heavy urban traffic, dust storms, extreme heat, and nighttime visibility issues. These conditions can make it harder for drivers to react in time.

When Do Arizona Crashes Usually Happen?

Crashes can happen at any time, but ADOT reported that 70.5% of all Arizona crashes in 2024 occurred during daylight hours between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. This makes sense because more drivers are on the road during the day. Morning and evening commutes can be especially risky because traffic is heavier and drivers may be in a rush.

Fatal crashes can also happen at night, when visibility is lower and impaired driving may be more common. Drivers should slow down, avoid distractions, and give other vehicles enough room at all times.

What Injuries Are Common After Arizona Car Accidents?

Crash injuries can range from mild to life-changing. Some injuries are obvious right away, while others take hours or days to appear.

Common car accident injuries include:

  • Neck and back injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Concussions
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Cuts and bruises
  • Internal injuries
  • Knee, shoulder, and wrist injuries
  • Anxiety and post-traumatic stress

Anyone hurt in a crash should seek medical care as soon as possible. Medical records can also help connect the injury to the accident if the injured person later files an insurance claim.

What Should You Do After a Car Accident in Arizona?

After a crash, your first priority should be safety. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if the crash is blocking traffic.

You should also try to:

  • Get medical care.
  • Exchange information with the other driver.
  • Take photos of the vehicles and the crash scene.
  • Get names and contact information from witnesses.
  • Report the crash to your insurance company.
  • Avoid admitting fault.
  • Keep copies of bills, repair estimates, and medical records.

Consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible after a wreck can help you determine your legal rights and options before you miss any important deadlines.

Contact the Phoenix Car Accident Lawyers at KRLG Injury Lawyers for Help

Car accidents are common in Arizona, but that does not make the aftermath any easier. If you were injured in a crash, our attorneys can review what happened, explain your options, and help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses.

For more information, contact an experienced Phoenix car accident lawyer at KRLG Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve Scottsdale, Phoenix, Maricopa County, & Arizona’s surrounding areas.

Kurtz Riley Injury Lawyers
7702 E Doubletree Ranch Rd, Suite 150, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
(623) 303-5754

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