Unfortunately, auto accidents happen all too often and, when serious, can forever alter the lives of those involved. If you find yourself facing the consequences of a bad crash, you might not know where to turn. To help guide you through this difficult time, we’ve compiled the four most important facts about car accidents you should know. Let’s dive right into it. 

 

Car Accidents Are Incredibly (and Tragically) Common 

Traffic collisions take the lives of approximately 1.35 million people each year, resulting in nearly 3% of deaths globally. In fact, nearly 100 Americans die from a fatal collision every day. More often than not, these horrific crashes are caused by reckless or negligent driving. Evidence shows that about 40% of car accidents happen due to drunk driving, while another nearly 40% result from distracted driving. 

 

You Can Sue For Damages Caused By Car Accidents

If you’ve been on the receiving end of a car accident, you have the right to file insurance claims and lawsuits. These, unfortunately, won’t reverse the damage done. However, they’ll provide you the money to grieve or heal in peace without worrying about hospital bills, funeral fees, or loss of income. 

Depending on your situation, you can file different claims. These are your options:

 

Wrongful Death 

Fatal accidents are tragic and shouldn’t go unpunished. If you’ve lost a loved one in a collision, you can file a wrongful death claim on their behalf. This holds the negligent party accountable for their actions. For you, this allows you to grieve without financial stressors. For them, wrongful death usually leads to an impounded vehicle and a suspended license. 

 

Personal Injury

If you yourself have been injured in a crash, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party. If won, you’ll get the financial assistance to help you heal through this tough time and the satisfaction of justice served. 

 

Arizona Has Strict Laws Regarding Car Accidents 

Every state features its own set of laws regarding car accidents. In Arizona, you must file a claim within two years of the day of the collision before the statute of limitations expires. Even if you don’t originally plan to use it, you may need to if things don’t run smoothly with the insurance companies. So, start your insurance claim early and leave yourself plenty of time to comfortably evaluate your options. 

Phoenix auto accidents, and all others in Arizona, operate on a comparative fault rule, whereby each party involved must account for their total damages. For example, if the other person was 90% at fault for the accident, but you were driving over the limit, you’ll have to account for 10% of their damages. But don’t let that stop you- it only means a certain percentage will be taken out of your total compensation if that’s the case. 

 

Car Accidents Are Easily Handled With a Reliable Lawyer 

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. It helps to have the expert advice of a reliable attorney who knows the law, can sharply negotiate against lawyers and insurers, and provide sufficient evidence to prove your case. This way, you can fully shift your attention to healing without worrying about paperwork and court appearances. 

 

Contact Tirado Law For a Free Consultation 

For an experienced lawyer, you can count on, look no further than Accidents Tirado Law. We’re dedicated to helping our clients get justice and begin the path of healing. Want to know more? Give us a call for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your options today.