Arizona Personal Injury Guide
Key deadlines, fault rules, insurance minimums, and laws that affect personal injury claims in Arizona.
2 years
Injury SOL
Pure Comparative Fault
Fault system
Min. bodily injury coverage
$25,000 / $50,000
Statute of Limitations
These are the time limits to file a lawsuit. Missing these deadlines generally means losing your right to recover compensation.
Personal Injury
2 years
from the date of injury A.R.S. § 12-542
Property Damage
2 years
from the date of damage A.R.S. § 12-542
Wrongful Death
2 years
from the date of death A.R.S. § 12-542
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Fault Rule: Pure Comparative Fault
Arizona follows pure comparative fault (Fault system codified in A.R.S. § 12-2505). An injured party may recover damages regardless of their share of fault, but recovery is reduced in proportion to their own fault. There is no threshold percentage that bars recovery.
Reporting Deadlines
Car accident - police report
Arizona requires drivers involved in accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage to report to law enforcement at the scene. If police do not respond, a written report must be filed with ADOT within 24 hours.
Government entity claim
Claims against Arizona state agencies or political subdivisions must be filed within 180 days under A.R.S. § 12-821.01. Claims against cities and towns: within 180 days. Strict compliance required.
Workers' compensation
In Arizona, a workers' compensation claim must be filed with the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA) within 1 year of the injury or the last benefit payment. Notify your employer as soon as possible.
Uninsured motorist claim
Report promptly per your policy requirements. The general personal injury statute of limitations (2 years) applies to UM/UIM lawsuits.
Insurance Minimums
These are the minimum auto insurance coverage amounts required in Arizona. Many drivers carry only these minimums, which may be insufficient for serious injuries.
Bodily Injury (per person)
$25,000
Bodily Injury (per accident)
$50,000
Property Damage
$15,000
Uninsured Motorist
Must be offered; may be waived in writing
Key Laws to Know
Pure Comparative Fault (A.R.S. § 12-2505)
Arizona codified pure comparative fault, eliminating the contributory negligence bar. An injured party's damages are reduced proportionally by their share of fault, but recovery is not barred regardless of fault percentage.
Non-Economic Damages - No General Cap
Arizona does not cap non-economic damages (pain and suffering) in general personal injury cases, unlike some states. Medical malpractice caps were struck down by the Arizona Supreme Court as unconstitutional.
Dram Shop Liability (A.R.S. § 4-311)
Arizona holds licensed alcohol vendors liable for injuries caused by serving alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a person under 21. This extends potential liability in drunk driving accident cases.
Government Tort Claims (A.R.S. § 12-820 et seq.)
Claims against the state, counties, or municipalities require pre-suit notice within 180 days. There are caps on damages against government entities in Arizona.
Workers' Compensation - Arizona Industrial Commission
Arizona workers' compensation is administered by the Industrial Commission of Arizona. It covers medical treatment and lost wages for workplace injuries, regardless of fault. Claims must be filed within 1 year.
Arizona Cities
Local resources, hospitals, courts, and accident corridor information for major cities in Arizona.
The above is general educational information about Arizona law and may not reflect recent legislative changes. Consult a licensed attorney in Arizona for advice specific to your situation.
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