June 23, 2026 | Car Accidents
A car accident can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. Between medical appointments, vehicle repairs, missed work, and calls from insurance adjusters, it can be difficult to think about anything beyond getting through the day.
If someone else’s negligence caused the crash, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. However, Arizona law limits how long you have to take legal action. Understanding these deadlines can help you protect your rights and avoid losing your opportunity to recover compensation.
What Is the Deadline to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Arizona?
In most Arizona car accident cases, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations.
While two years may sound like a long time, it often goes by faster than people expect. Many accident victims spend months focusing on their recovery before realizing they may need legal help.
If the filing deadline passes before a lawsuit is filed, you may lose your right to pursue compensation altogether. That’s why it is important to understand your options as early as possible, even if you’re not sure whether you want to take legal action.
Why Is It Important to Act Sooner Rather Than Later?
One of the biggest mistakes accident victims make is assuming they can wait until the deadline approaches before taking action.
The reality is that evidence becomes harder to find over time. Witnesses move away or forget important details. Surveillance footage may be deleted. Physical evidence from the crash can disappear. Even medical records can become more difficult to organize after months or years have passed.
Taking action early gives your attorney the opportunity to investigate the accident while the evidence is still fresh. It can also strengthen your position during settlement negotiations with the insurance company.
Are There Any Exceptions to Arizona’s Filing Deadline?
In some situations, the deadline may be different.
For example, if the injured person is a minor, Arizona law may allow additional time to file a lawsuit. Cases involving government agencies often have much shorter notice requirements and filing deadlines. Certain disabilities or legal circumstances may also affect how the statute of limitations applies.
Because every case is unique, it is a good idea to speak with an attorney who can explain the specific deadlines that may apply to your situation.
What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?
Unfortunately, missing the statute of limitations can have serious consequences.
Even if you have strong evidence and significant injuries, the court will likely dismiss your case if it is filed after the deadline expires. Once that happens, the insurance company may have little reason to negotiate a settlement.
In other words, waiting too long could prevent you from recovering compensation that might otherwise have been available.
Can You Still Recover Compensation if You Were Partially at Fault?
It’s possible. Many people hesitate to pursue a claim because they believe they may have contributed to the accident.
Fortunately, Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for the crash. Your recovery will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if your damages total $100,000 and you are found 20% responsible, you may still recover $80,000.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame to injured victims whenever possible. Having an attorney on your side can help ensure the facts are presented fairly.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Car Accident?
The financial impact of a car accident often extends far beyond the initial medical bills.
Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Every case is different, and the value of a claim depends on factors such as the severity of the injuries and how they affect your daily life.
Reach Out to KRLG Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation with Our Scottsdale Car Accident Lawyers
After a serious car accident, it is normal to have questions about your rights and what comes next. The good news is that you do not have to figure everything out on your own.
The Scottsdale car accident lawyers at KRLG Injury Lawyers can review your situation, explain the deadlines that apply to your case, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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
