Personal Injury Lawyer in Mesa, AZ

If you were injured in an accident, you may be entitled to fair financial compensation from the person responsible. You may need to navigate complex insurance claims or even file a personal injury lawsuit to get what you deserve. Our legal team can help you get justice, closure, and fair financial compensation.

Personal injury cases must involve some sort of physical injury to the plaintiff, although they may claim other damages like property damage or lost wages. While insurance may help some injured victims recoup some of their losses and expenses, insurance may not cover everything. You could be left with unpaid damages, or the insurance company could deny your claims. An attorney can help you sue those responsible so that you get all the compensation you deserve.

Receive a private, free case review from our personal injury attorneys at the Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm by calling (480) 428-0816.

How Do Personal Injury Cases Occur in Mesa, AZ?

Personal injury cases are somewhat hard to pin down because they encompass such a wide variety of accidents and injuries. If you are unsure whether you have a valid legal claim, speak to an attorney now.

Vehicle Accidents

One of the hallmarks of personal injury claims is that injuries occur in some sort of accident. Car accidents are very common in the field of personal injury law. Accidents involving bikes, motorcycles, trucks, and other vehicles are also very common.

Pedestrian Accidents

Even if you are not behind the wheel, you might be badly injured in a pedestrian accident. Crossing the street or simply walking down a busy sidewalk can become dangerous due to negligent drivers. In many cases, pedestrians are severely injured and entitled to substantial financial compensation.

Does Insurance Cover Personal Injuries?

Many people have insurance specifically for things like accidents and unexpected injuries. Unfortunately, insurance companies do not always provide the safety net that they promise.

Health Insurance

You may have health insurance that can cover some or even all of your immediate medical costs after a bad accident. Health insurance policies may offer varying degrees of coverage, and your attorney can help you make sure that the insurance company is not shortchanging you. Remember, even if your health insurance pays for your hospital bills, you may still claim these bills in a lawsuit. However, you may have to repay your health insurance provider if you win your case.

Auto Insurance

Car accidents are among the most common causes of personal injury cases, and auto insurance is frequently involved. In some cases, auto insurance combined with health insurance comes together to provide complete coverage, and you might not need to pursue further legal action. In other cases, injured victims are not so lucky. The other driver might be uninsured, or your damages might exceed policy limits.

Business Insurance

If you are injured because of a business or organization, the defendant may have business-related insurance that may cover your damages. Many businesses have large insurance policies, especially if the business comes with higher safety risks.

What Evidence Should I Have to Prove a Personal Injury Case?

Evidence is key to a successful personal injury case. The evidence you need and where you can find it will depend on specific facts surrounding your case.

Medical Records

A major component of our evidentiary arsenal is your medical records. We need these records to prove to a jury how badly you were injured and the costs of treatment. Since these are your records, you have every right to request them from the hospital where you were treated. However, it may take hospital administrators time to compile these records, so we should try to obtain them as early as possible.

Photos and Videos

Photos and videos are commonly used as evidence in personal injury cases. For example, after car accidents, drivers often take pictures of the damage to their vehicle to send to insurance companies. Your photos may preserve other details about the accident that we can use to prove the defendant's negligence. We may also search for video footage of the accident from dashcams or nearby surveillance cameras.

Testimony

Testimony from witnesses and your own testimony may be used to support your claims. People who saw the accident happen might have spoken to the police, and we can get their names from the police report. You might personally know some witnesses and be able to convince them to testify. Your own testimony is also crucial.

Who is Responsible for Personal Injuries?

To get the compensation you need, we need to determine exactly who is responsible. If defendants are left out of your lawsuit, you risk losing valuable compensation.

People

Many plaintiffs sue individual people or groups of people they believe are directly responsible for their injuries. For example, if you are injured in a car accident caused by only one other driver, you may sue them. However, many accidents occur when the negligence of multiple drivers combines to cause the accident, and each driver who contributed may be held accountable.

Businesses and Organizations

As mentioned above, a business or organization may be held responsible for an accident. For example, if you were in an accident while driving a rental car because the brakes failed, you could sue the rental company that provided you with the faulty car.

Governmental Entities

Even governmental entities or agencies may be held responsible for accidents and injuries, depending on the circumstances. Governmental entities are often shielded from liability under sovereign immunity laws, but this protection only goes so far. For example, if you are injured in an accident with a public bus operated by Valley Metro in Arizona, you may sue the transportation agency, which is a governmental entity.

How Do I Start a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Mesa, AZ?

Starting a personal injury lawsuit is tricky, and you should not try to do so alone. Speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer before trying to begin your case.

Hire a Lawyer

Before you start your lawsuit, you should seek help from an experienced attorney. Your attorney can advise you of all your legal options while helping you prepare to take your claims to court. Lawsuits are infamously complex, and you should not attempt to file one on your own.

Gather Information and Evidence

Before you can file your lawsuit, our personal injury attorneys must gather the necessary information and evidence to build the case. This may mean returning to the scene of your accident to see if any other evidence remains. We may need to track down and interview potential witnesses and consult police reports to ensure we have a complete evidentiary picture.

Draft and File a Formal Complaint

Once we have gathered the evidence and information we need, we can draft a formal legal complaint. This is a lengthy document that must meet specific formatting rules to be accepted by a court. It must spell out how the accident happened, who is involved in the case, your damages, and at least some evidence to back up your claims.

We do not have to include all our evidence or enough evidence to meet the burden of proof. We only need to show there is enough evidence to support your claim.

What Can My Lawyer Do to Help Me During a Personal Injury Case?

Your attorney is your best resource throughout your lawsuit, and they should help you from start to finish.

Communication with the Defense

A major part of your attorney's job is to shield you from being confronted by the defendant. Once the case is filed, you should not have any direct communication with the defendant. Instead, your attorney should relay all communications between you and the defendant. If the defendant tries to contact you directly for any reason, tell your lawyer immediately.

Coordinating Witnesses and Evidence

Handling a lawsuit requires balancing witnesses, evidence, court officials, defendants, law enforcement, and numerous other parties connected to the case. Your attorney should be able to coordinate with witnesses to provide testimony and gather evidence to back up your claims. They should also be able to relay information about the evidence to the court and the defense so that it is admissible.

Talking to Insurance Companies and Creditors

Your attorney can also help you deal with insurance companies or people you might owe money to because of the accident. Insurance companies might want to repay the compensation they provided you if you win your case. If you did not have insurance, you might owe hospitals or others a lot of money. Your attorney can help you keep creditors at bay while your case is pending.

FAQs About Personal Injury Cases in Mesa, AZ

Who Can I Sue for Personal Injuries

You may sue the person, people, or entity that is directly responsible for the accident that injured you. Many plaintiffs sue one or several people, while others sue businesses or organizations. Your attorney can help identify the appropriate defendant.

How Do Personal Injury Incidents Happen?

Many personal injury cases stem from unfortunate accidents. Vehicle accidents are some of the most common reasons behind personal injury cases, and you should contact a lawyer if you were injured in an auto accident.

Will Insurance Cover Personal Injury Damages?

Often, insurance helps pay for certain damages after an accident. You may file a claim with the defendant's liability coverage or file a first-party claim with your own policy to pay for medical bills. However, non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, are often not covered, and you may need to sue for those damages.

Should I Sue for Personal Injuries?

You have the right to sue for personal injuries, but you do not have to if you do not want to. Many people prefer to exhaust their other legal options before suing, and your attorney can help you decide what to do.

How Long After an Accident Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

In Arizona, an injured victim may file a personal injury lawsuit up to 2 years after the initial accident. If you do not file your case on time, you may be barred from ever filing it, and you might never receive fair compensation.

Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?

You are not required to have a lawyer to file a lawsuit, but having one is almost always a good idea. Lawsuits are incredibly complex and difficult to navigate, and an experienced attorney can make the process much easier and improve your chances of success.

When Will I Receive Financial Compensation After Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

If you successfully prove your claims in court, it may still be some time before you receive compensation. It is not unusual for liable defendants to take a few months to get the funds needed to pay for the plaintiff's damages. The money often goes through the courts first, which will take time.

What Happens if the Defendant in My Personal Injury Case Runs Away?

If the defendant flees the accident scene before they can be identified, you should contact the police immediately. In car accident cases, this may be a hit and run and is a serious criminal offense. The police may investigate and find the person who caused the accident.

Are Personal Injury Claims Worth a Lot of Money?

The value of any specific case depends on the plaintiff's injures, losses, and expenses. These may vary greatly between cases, so each case is unique. Generally, the more severe your injuries, the more compensation your claim should be worth.

How Much Evidence Do I Need to Prove a Personal Injury Case?

In a civil lawsuit, the plaintiff has the burden of proving their claims by a "preponderance of the evidence." This means that we must prove it is more likely than not that the defendant is liable for your damages. While this is a lower standard than in criminal cases, it is still tough to satisfy.

Get Help Now from Our Personal Injury Attorneys in Mesa, AZ

Receive a private, free case review from our personal injury attorneys at the Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm by calling (480) 428-0816.

Mesa Car Accident Lawyer

Karissa Murphy

ATTORNEY
480-634-7480
karissa@phxinjurylaw.com
TEXT US

Over-the-Phone Free Case Evaluation.

We can address all of your concerns about your car accident and discuss possible medical treatment, at-fault issues, and settlement options.

When an accident disrupts your life, a Mesa car accident lawyer acts quickly to settle the matter in your favor. The Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm pursues the most effective solution to secure you the results you need. Whether your case is settled or proceeds to trial, an Arizona personal injury lawyer will relentlessly fight for your rights and future. 

Why Choose Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm

A car crash can be an overwhelming and isolating experience that can leave you questioning a lot. How to get compensation, justice, and the other resources you need should not be one of those questions. Mesa auto accident attorneys take these concerns on and provide creative solutions that let you rest easier knowing your case is in good hands. When you hire our team, you can expect us to help you with: 

• Maximizing compensation is vital to ensuring you have what you need to fully recover after an accident. We aggressively fight for you so you can move forward with confidence. 

• Medical care guidance can eliminate your worries by ensuring you find the doctors and treatment options that are right for you. Our team recommends the most effective and helpful professionals who can help you regain your health and empower your future.

• Handling complex legal procedures is a core part of what we do for our clients everyday. We take care of the claim process for you so you never have to wonder if forms are filled out correctly, if deadlines have passed, or if your case is accurately compensated.

• Assistance with car rentals is a service we provide so we can minimize further disruptions to your life. We help you find the rental that most meets your needs, determine how long you will need it for, and handle the insurance aspects.

• Ongoing case management by our team allows you to be hands-off and focus on healing from your injuries. We handle paperwork, negotiations, and so much more to reach a resolution swiftly. We also communicate with you on a regular basis.

• Weekly case updates: A 76-year-old grandfather, husband, and father was killed driving back home after buying groceries in Mesa, AZ. The at-fault driver, also 76 years old, had taken Ambien before driving and was charged with negligent homicide. Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm represented his surviving family members—his wife, sons, and daughters—in the civil matter and assisted them throughout criminal proceedings. This Mesa auto accident was settled for $800,000.

Why You Need an Attorney for a Mesa Car Accident

Individuals who file a claim without the help of a lawyer often suffer in the long run because they recover significantly less by comparison. Lawyers have comprehensive legal knowledge and local connections that allow them valuable insight and access that can provide solutions and get results. They can also negotiate with insurance companies and handle the various legal requirements so you do not have to do it on your own.  

The best car accident lawyer is not someone who can guarantee you a specific outcome, but someone who will strongly advocate for you given the details of your specific situation and get you the most favorable outcome possible. Every case is different and presents its own set of challenges, but a lawyer will steadfastly support you and negotiate on your behalf through the entire process.  

Common Types of Collisions We Handle

Our team handles a wide variety of auto accidents to ensure that you have a lifeline regardless of the situation you are facing. There are different factors involved in each type of collision, and our seasoned team can skillfully navigate the nuanced considerations, strategies, and requirements needed to resolve your case. Below are just a few of the types of accidents we can help you with.

• Rear-end accidents are among the most common collisions, and smaller vehicles often take the brunt of the impact. 

• Head-on accidents can be life-threatening as the full force of the impact is felt directly. Higher speeds can make these collisions even more deadly. 

• Side-impact accidents can cause severe injuries given the limited amount of protection that exists on the side of the vehicle. Most likely to occur in intersections.

• Sideswipe accidents are particularly dangerous because they may cause the driver of the car being sideswiped to over-correct and lose control. 

• Rollover accidents subject vehicle occupants to multiple points of impact and severe injuries. 

• Hit-and-runs can be challenging to resolve because the driver at fault has fled the scene. 

• Multiple-vehicle accidents may start with one car and then a chain reaction may begin where each car impacted collides with another vehicle and causes further injury and damage. 

Types of Compensation You may Receive

You may be able to recover multiple losses through compensation. What you can recover and how much your settlement might be worth are all dependent on your specific losses. A Mesa vehicle accident lawyer will help you calculate the value of your losses to determine what damages you need to fully satisfy them. This estimate will also help guide negotiations so you can receive maximum compensation. Some of the most common losses that can be recovered through an insurance or personal injury claim include:

• Medical treatments, diagnostics, lab work, medications, and ongoing therapies
• Home accommodations
• Lost wages or lost earning capacity
• Property damage 
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Pain and suffering
• PTSD, anxiety, depression and/or insomnia
• Emotional distress
• Loss of companionship or consortium
• Decreased quality of life and enjoyment

Damages are designed to offset the weight of your losses and help you return to the state you were in before the accident. While this may not always be completely possible and cannot undo what you have suffered, it can ease your financial stress and suffering by giving you the peace of mind that you have the resources you need to cope and receive support. 

Common Injuries We Help Clients With

Mesa has the third highest number of crash-related injuries (3,150) in Maricopa County, according to the latest report by the Arizona Department of Transportation. It also has the second highest number of fatalities (54) and alcohol-related injuries (223) and fatalities (15) after Phoenix. Given the large size of the city, extra precautions are necessary to avoid accidents and injuries.  

Car crash injuries can range wildly from whiplash, lacerations, broken bones and sprained muscles, to more severe conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, or paralysis. Car accidents also often affect core areas of the body such as the neck, chest and back, which can severely limit mobility in the wake of a collision. For some, it may lead to chronic pain that can cause long-term complications. In the most severe accidents, wrongful death could occur. 

How Much Does a Mesa Car Accident Lawyer Cost?

Mesa car accident injury lawyers will not charge you any attorney fees unless we win your case and secure a settlement or verdict. Your wellbeing is important to us and we ensure you receive the legal representation you need to recover your losses. We only collect our fees from what you have been awarded so you do not have to pay us directly. We believe in making legal services accessible so you have someone to fight for you and protect your interests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Mesa Car Accident

While there are many challenges that could arise during the course of a car accident claim, there are certain steps you can take from the beginning to minimize potential obstacles. By doing so, you can streamline the process and improve your chances of securing a larger settlement. There are several common mistakes that can be made in the heat of the moment that should be avoided at all cost if possible.

Refusing to get medical treatment after an accident is one of the biggest mistakes you can make after a collision. Not only does it jeopardize your health, it could prevent you from recovering compensation for any injuries that you may discover later on. Admitting fault or talking about the accident on social media can also result in a denied claim or come back to haunt you 

To have the best chance at a favorable outcome, it is essential to have a strong case and plenty of evidence. Failing to file a police report or take pictures of the accident and your injuries can severely weaken your claim and make it harder to show the other driver's negligence. Failing to hire a lawyer can also be a costly mistake, as other parties will seek to take advantage of you and not treat you fairly. 

Call a Mesa Car Accident Lawyer for Help Today

The team at our Mesa office is ready to help you if you have suffered the horrors of an auto collision. The Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm will come alongside you and apply our extensive legal and local knowledge to your case to secure you the most favorable results possible. To learn more about how we can serve and fight for you, reach out to us today for a free consultation.  

FAQs 

Is there a statute of limitations for car accidents?

Yes. ARS § 12-542 provides accident victims two years to file a claim before they are barred from recovery.

Can I recover compensation if I'm partially to blame? 

ARS § 12-2505 allows each party involved in an accident to recover compensation for their losses. However, their damages will be reduced proportionally to their percentage of fault. A lawyer will fight to ensure you have minimal liability so you can recover the maximum amount.

Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Helping You Receive the Money You Deserve

Phoenix Car Accident Lawyer: What to Expect When You Hire Us

Your journey with Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm, alongside your trusted car accident lawyer, is more than a legal endeavor—it's about finding a reliable partner during one of the most challenging times of your life. Here's what you can expect when you entrust us with your case:

Types of Car Accidents We Handle

Your journey with Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm, alongside your trusted Arizona car accident lawyer, is more than a legal endeavor—it's about finding a reliable partner during one of the most challenging times of your life. Below are the types of car accidents we handle:

We Help Get Treatment for These Types of Injuries

An Arizona car accident can be a traumatic event, often leading to a diverse array of injuries. These injuries can range from the immediately apparent, such as broken bones, to the subtle, like internal trauma or emotional distress. Every individual reacts differently to accidents, and each injury is unique. Our Arizona car accident lawyers at Phoenix Accident and Injury Law understand this complexity and have cultivated a reputation for ensuring clients receive the appropriate treatment for their specific injuries:

Types of Injuries

• Head Injury and Concussion: Silent threats that demand immediate attention, often with lingering impacts.
• Broken and Fractured Bones: Painful outcomes requiring timely intervention to ensure optimal recovery.
• Back and Neck Injury: Being essential to daily activities, their impairment can severely disrupt the flow of life.
• Paralysis: A devastating aftermath with life-altering consequences and extensive rehabilitative needs can be overwhelming to navigate alone. However, with the support and guidance of our car accident lawyers in Arizona, you can confidently pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
• Rib and Chest Pain: Beyond immediate discomfort, these injuries are potential indicators of deeper, underlying concerns that may require legal guidance from an Arizona car accident lawyer.
• Whiplash: A common yet overlooked repercussion leading to persistent pain and requiring expert care.
• Chronic Pain: A lasting testament to an accident's impact, hinting at potential unresolved medical issues.
• Pregnancy Complications & Miscarriage: Sensitive, heartbreaking realities that need the utmost care and compassion.
• Fatality: A tragic outcome where the goal becomes helping loved ones seek justice and closure can be emotionally challenging to handle. In such difficult times, the help and support of our car accident lawyers in Arizona can guide you through the legal process with compassion and determination.
• Minor Auto Accident Injuries: While seemingly insignificant, every injury deserves attention.

We Handle Car Accidents in These Arizona Cities

What should I do after a car accident?

First, ensure everyone's safety and call emergency services. Then, document the scene by taking photos and collecting witness information. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Finally, contact a car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.

How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?

Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle your case. Typically, the fee ranges from 30-40% of the settlement amount or judgment. Be sure to discuss fees upfront during your consultation.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim?

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. It's crucial to file your claim as soon as possible to avoid losing your right to compensation.

What if the car accident was my fault?

Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be eligible for compensation. Arizona follows comparative negligence laws, meaning that your compensation may be reduced based on your degree of fault, but you can still recover damages.

What types of damages can I claim after a car accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and future medical expenses. A lawyer can help you identify all possible damages in your case.

How can a car accident lawyer help with insurance claims?

A lawyer can help ensure your insurance claim is filed correctly and that you are not unfairly denied coverage. They can also assist in negotiating with your insurance company or the at-fault party's insurer to ensure you receive fair compensation.

What should I expect during my free consultation with a car accident lawyer?

During a free consultation, the lawyer will review the details of your accident, discuss your legal options, and evaluate the potential value of your claim. You can also ask about their experience, fees, and how they will handle your case.

Karissa Murphy

ATTORNEY
480-634-7480
karissa@phxinjurylaw.com
TEXT US

Over-the-Phone Free Case Evaluation.

We can address all of your concerns about your car accident and discuss possible medical treatment, at-fault issues, and settlement options.