Arizona law guide
Arizona Car Accident Laws, in Plain English
The two-year deadline, the 180-day trap on government claims, and Arizona's unusually forgiving fault rule — explained without the legalese.
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and AZ Legal Help is not a law firm. Deadlines and rules vary by situation — a participating Arizona law firm can explain what applies to you. No outcome is guaranteed.
Attorney advertising. AZ Legal Help is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Your information may be shared with a participating Arizona law firm for review. No outcome is guaranteed.
Two years to file — with a 180-day trap
Arizona generally allows two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (A.R.S. § 12-542). But if a public entity is involved — a city vehicle, a dangerous public road — a formal notice of claim is generally required within 180 days, and the lawsuit within one year.
Pure comparative fault: you can recover even if mostly at fault
Arizona follows pure comparative negligence (A.R.S. § 12-2505): recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault but never barred by it. Even a driver found largely responsible may still recover for the other side's share — one of the most claimant-friendly fault rules in the country.
Dogs and motorcycles: two Arizona quirks
Arizona holds dog owners strictly liable for bites regardless of the dog's history (A.R.S. § 11-1025) — but the statutory claim generally must be brought within one year. And since 2022, motorcyclists may lane-filter between stopped cars on certain roads, though lane splitting at speed remains illegal.
Before you take the first offer
First offers often arrive before the full extent of injuries is known — and accepting generally ends the claim. A participating Arizona law firm can review an offer for free. Start at the Arizona personal injury hub or request a review on this page.
Arizona law FAQ
Common questions
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Arizona?
Generally two years from the date of injury — but claims involving a public entity generally require a formal notice of claim within 180 days. This is general information, not legal advice; a participating Arizona law firm can explain the deadlines that apply to you.
What if I was mostly at fault?
Arizona follows pure comparative negligence: your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault but not barred by it. A participating Arizona law firm can explain how this may apply.
Is this legal advice?
No. AZ Legal Help is a legal advertising and lead-generation website, not a law firm. This guide is general information; a participating Arizona law firm can review your specific situation for free.
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