Accidents can lead to unexpected medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain. In Arizona, personal injury claims give victims avenues to recover compensation when negligence from another person causes harm.
However, the claims filing process may need to be revised due to strict deadlines, negotiations with insurance companies, and complex court procedures. To make things easier, many injured people turn to local lawyers for assistance. Someone like Jeffrey Phillips, a personal injury attorney at Phillips Law Group can provide assitance during this time.
In this article, we will explore the essential elements of hiring a personal injury lawyer in Arizona.
Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in Arizona
There are different types of personal injury claims that occur in Arizona every year. The most frequent ones involve motor vehicle collisions, usually because of distracted driving or impaired drivers.
Other frequent cases include premises liability claims, such as slip-and-fall accidents in stores, parks, or other public spaces due to property owners’ neglecting to fix hazardous conditions.
Dog bites and medical malpractice complete the list. Injuries sustained either from the negligence of pet owners or improper care of health professionals may give rise to a serious dispute that deserves adequate representation.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Personal injury attorneys in Arizona help accident victims get fair compensation. They are licensed to practice tort law and represent clients in legal matters.
A key role of an attorney is negotiating with insurers, who often minimize payouts. A lawyer advocates for your interests to help you avoid unfair settlements.
Personal injury attorneys will take care of the paperwork, court filings, and deadlines. There is a strict time limit during the litigation process, and failure to observe any of them may mean one loses the right to compensation. An attorney ensures all procedures are followed correctly and on time.
When to Contact an Attorney
It is of the utmost essence to seek the services of a personal injury lawyer immediately after your accident in Arizona. This early involvement will give the attorney the best opportunity to obtain fresh evidence and witness statements, which may help in proving your case.
Delays may also lead to the loss of some critical deadlines. Arizona’s statute of limitations typically gives you two years to file a personal injury claim.
Moreover, prompt contact with an attorney may protect you from pressure from insurance companies. Some insurers often rush to unsuspecting victims of accidents to convince them to accept quick settlements, probably well below their full damages. A lawyer cannot allow this to happen.
Finding the Right Personal Injury Lawyer
Locating the right attorney for your case requires careful consideration. You could seek references from trusted friends or family members who have had cases similar to yours. Personal recommendations often provide insight into the attorney’s communication and success rates.
You might also explore online directories that list qualified attorneys in Arizona, ensuring they specialize in personal injury cases. Many websites include reviews and ratings from previous clients, helping you make an informed choice.
Lastly, arrange consultations with potential lawyers to assess their experience handling cases like yours. A face-to-face meeting allows you to ask about fees, case strategy, and expectations for compensation.
Navigating Legal Fees
In Arizona, personal injury lawyers often take cases on contingency. What that means is you pay no up-front costs or fees for services.
The lawyer will take a percentage, usually 33 to 40 percent of your overall settlement or court award. Through a contingency fee arrangement, the immediate financial burden is very little for the client, which most clients appreciate since it allows access to an attorney.
Before making a deal with any law firm, ask about any potential costs. Occasionally, additional fees will be incurred for expert witnesses or filing fees with the courthouse, and these need to be ascertained in advance to avoid any surprises down the line.
