A car crash can change your life in seconds. One moment you’re driving to work or heading home, and the next you’re dealing with medical bills, insurance adjusters, and vehicle repairs. Many people assume they can handle a car accident claim on their own—until they discover how complicated it is.
That’s where a car accident lawyer steps in. An experienced personal injury attorney not only fights for your compensation but also ensures your rights are protected every step of the way.
Understanding the Role of a Car Accident Lawyer
A car accident lawyer represents injured victims in legal claims arising from vehicle collisions. Their main goal is to help clients recover damages for losses caused by another driver’s negligence. Those damages can include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
But the work of a car accident lawyer goes far beyond filing paperwork. From the moment you hire an attorney, they begin building a case that can stand up to scrutiny by insurance companies and, if necessary, a court of law.
1. Investigating the Accident and Gathering Evidence
The first step a lawyer takes is investigating the cause of the crash. Arizona follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for compensating victims.
To prove fault, your lawyer will collect crucial evidence, such as:
- Police and accident reports
- Photos and videos from the scene
- Vehicle damage assessments
- Witness statements
- Medical records and expert opinions
This evidence establishes the essential legal elements of negligence: duty of care, breach, causation, and damages. Without strong evidence, insurance companies often try to deny or minimize valid claims.
2. Determining Liability Under Arizona Law
Determining liability can be more complex than it seems. Arizona’s comparative negligence rule allows an injured person to recover damages even if they were partially at fault for the accident. However, their compensation is reduced in proportion to their percentage of fault.
For example, if you were found 20% responsible for a crash and your total damages were $100,000, you could still recover $80,000. A skilled attorney will analyze accident evidence carefully to minimize your share of fault and maximize your recovery.
3. Handling Communication With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are not on your side—their goal is to protect their profits. Adjusters often pressure victims to settle quickly or give recorded statements that can later be used against them.
Your attorney acts as your legal shield, handling all communications with insurers and ensuring you don’t say anything that could harm your case. They also review policy language, identify coverage limits, and ensure the insurer meets its obligations under Arizona law.
By managing negotiations professionally, your lawyer can prevent insurance companies from undervaluing your claim or denying it altogether.
4. Calculating the Full Value of Your Damages
A major advantage of hiring a car accident lawyer is their ability to calculate the true value of your claim. Many victims underestimate the long-term costs of injuries, especially when symptoms worsen over time or require ongoing treatment.
Your attorney will evaluate both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical bills: Hospital care, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
- Lost wages: Income lost due to missed work or disability.
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle.
- Future expenses: Long-term medical care, rehabilitation, or vocational retraining.
A thorough calculation ensures you seek fair compensation—not just what the insurance company offers first.
5. Negotiating Settlements
Once your lawyer has built a strong case, they enter settlement negotiations. Most personal injury cases resolve outside of court, but achieving a fair settlement requires deep knowledge of Arizona personal injury law and negotiation tactics.
An experienced attorney will present evidence of liability, prove the severity of your injuries, and push for a settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages. If the insurer refuses to make a fair offer, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court.
6. Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If settlement talks fail, your lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court. In Arizona, most car accident lawsuits must be filed within two years of the accident date. Missing this statute of limitations can permanently bar you from recovering compensation.
In court, your attorney will present your case before a judge or jury, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for the damages you deserve. Having an experienced trial lawyer signals to the insurer that you are serious about pursuing full justice.
7. Providing Ongoing Legal Support and Guidance
Beyond legal strategy, a car accident lawyer provides invaluable guidance and peace of mind. They help clients understand the process, respond to insurance letters, manage medical liens, and ensure compliance with all filing deadlines.
They can also coordinate with medical providers, experts, and accident reconstruction specialists to strengthen your case and relieve the burden of handling complex legal issues while you recover.
Contact KRLG Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
After a car accident, your focus should be on recovery—not on fighting with insurers or deciphering Arizona’s injury laws. By hiring an experienced personal injury attorney at KRLG Injury Lawyers, you put a dedicated advocate on your side who will protect your rights, pursue fair compensation, and guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation.
You focus on healing. Let us handle the insurance companies. Call Kurtz Riley Law Group today for a free consultation about your case at (623) 303-5754.
Kurtz Riley Injury Lawyers - Scottsdale Office
7702 E Doubletree Ranch Rd, Suite 150,
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
(623) 303-5754