Car Accident Attorney in Phoenix
If you were injured in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, a Phoenix car accident lawyer can be essential in protecting your rights and helping you pursue compensation. Car accidents in Phoenix often lead to extensive medical bills, lost wages, long-term pain, and ongoing insurance challenges, and many crash victims aren’t sure where to turn for guidance.
The numbers show how common and serious these collisions are. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, Maricopa County saw 88,094 car accidents in 2024, and 26,550 of those crashes resulted in injury or death. With traffic volume rising across the region, drivers and passengers face significant risks on Phoenix roads every day.
At Gallagher & Kennedy, our Phoenix car accident attorneys understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a crash can feel. Whether you are struggling with medical treatment, transportation issues, or pressure from an insurance adjuster, our role is to help you make informed decisions and move forward with confidence. We take the time to explain your options clearly, outline what to expect in the process, and begin building a strategy designed around your needs and recovery.
Why Choose Our Phoenix Car Accident Lawyers?
Choosing the right attorney can directly affect how your case is handled, how insurance companies respond, and the outcome you ultimately receive. Gallagher & Kennedy is a Phoenix-based personal injury law firm with more than 45 years of experience representing injured clients throughout Maricopa County.
Our Phoenix car accident lawyers understand how local claims are evaluated and what it takes to build a case insurers take seriously. From evidence collection to negotiation or litigation, we position your claim to reflect the full extent of your losses—not just what an insurance company offers upfront.
With more than 275 combined years of experience, our attorneys handle car accident cases involving catastrophic injuries and complex liability. We build claims supported by detailed evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and medical documentation that clearly connects your injuries to the crash.
Gallagher & Kennedy Is One of the Ten Largest Firms in the State of Arizona
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless compensation is recovered. This allows you to move forward without added financial pressure during recovery.
As one of the largest personal injury law firms in Arizona, Gallagher & Kennedy has the resources to fully investigate and support complex cases. When necessary, we work with accident reconstruction experts, investigators, and medical specialists to strengthen your claim.
Our attorneys are prepared to negotiate from a position of strength and, when needed, take your case to trial to pursue a fair and complete outcome.
Our Car Accident Law Firm Has the Reputation and Resources You Need
Our adversaries know that we back every case with tireless advocacy. When our Phoenix car accident lawyers negotiate with the insurance company, we know the strength of our claim and can move to trial if necessary.
Even our competitors recognize the edge we provide to personal injury victims. Many smaller firms in the area refer tough car accident cases to us.
They know we have the experience, skills, and a network of vast resources to do the job properly. Going the distance for clients is one thing but having the resources to sustain that passion is another. Each Phoenix car crash attorney at our firm is prepared to support you with the extent of our financial resources. We perform an in-depth workup of your case, often requiring access to top-notch investigators, tools, and experts.
We are fortunate to have the ability to fund the kind of investigation and case-building that leads to multi-million-dollar results for Phoenix car accident claimants.
Car Accident Case Results
Our firm has secured significant recoveries for clients injured in car accidents, including cases involving serious and life-altering injuries:
- $11 million for a client who suffered permanent injuries in a serious car crash
- $4.25 million for clients injured in a motor vehicle collision
- $1.65 million for passengers injured in a multi-vehicle accident
- $950,000 settlement for a rear-end collision case
- $550,000 for a husband and wife injured in a car crash
- $500,000 jury verdict for a motor vehicle accident in Arizona
These results reflect our ability to handle a wide range of car accident claims, from complex injury cases to more common collisions. While every case is different, our focus remains the same: pursuing full compensation and protecting our clients from insurance companies that try to minimize what their claim is worth. Don't let your claim be undervalued.
Do I Need a Phoenix Auto Accident Attorney or Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer?
Many people searching for legal help after a car crash use terms like car accident lawyer, auto accident attorney, or motor vehicle accident lawyer. While the wording varies, these searches reflect the same need: guidance after a collision caused by another party’s negligence.
A Phoenix auto accident attorney can assist with claims involving motorcycles, passenger vehicles, pickup trucks, SUVs, rideshare vehicles, and other motor vehicles, like semi-trucks, involved in serious crashes. These cases often involve similar legal issues, including determining fault, dealing with insurance companies, documenting injuries, and calculating both immediate and long-term losses.
Whether you searched for a Phoenix auto accident lawyer or motor vehicle accident lawyer in Phoenix, the legal process follows the same path; investigating the collision, gathering evidence, and identifying all sources of liability.
At Gallagher & Kennedy, our Phoenix car accident lawyers tailor their approach to your situation. By building claims around clear evidence and a detailed understanding of Arizona law, we aim to position our clients for the strongest possible outcome, securing the best compensation.
6 Ways An Auto Accident Attorney in Phoenix Can Help with Your Claim
We begin each case with a detailed investigation. Our car accident lawyers take the time to understand everything about your collision so we can determine a course of action moving forward. We want to have a clear picture of your case on both a factual and legal level.
Some of the responsibilities of your Phoenix auto accident lawyer include:
1. Investigating the Cause of Your Car Crash
We must learn the cause of your collision to recover the compensation you need. This allows us to determine who should pay for your losses. We can work with experienced investigators and crash experts to develop an accurate picture of the collision. We gather evidence, speak to witnesses, review the crash report, examine the scene, and reconstruct the accident if necessary.
Our investigation intends to answer these questions:
- Who caused the car accident?
- How did the at-fault party act negligently?
- When did the motor vehicle crash happen?
- What was each party doing immediately before the collision?
- Was anybody intoxicated when the accident happened?
- What happened in the car collision’s immediate aftermath?
- Who owns the involved vehicles?
- Was anybody on the clock when the auto collision happened?
2. Retrieving Evidence
We may need to gather extensive evidence to support your injury case.
While investigating your claim, an auto accident lawyer in Phoenix may retrieve the following types of evidence (in addition to others):
- Traffic footage
- Surveillance video
- Dashcam video
- Cell phone video
- Cell phone records indicating call and text history
- Vehicle event data
- Witness testimony
Investigations can get complicated. While our team hits the pavement to investigate your collision, you can rest easy and spend time with loved ones.
3. Identifying Fault and Determining Liability
The end goal of an investigation is to determine fault and liability. The at-fault party (usually a motorist) causes your collision in Phoenix. The liable party (usually the motorist’s insurer) pays for your losses. Sometimes, car accident cases can have multiple at-fault and liable parties.
The at-fault party in your case may include:
- Another driver: Negligent driving and intentional misconduct are often the driver-related causes of auto accidents. Drivers may act negligently when they drive while intoxicated, speed, or “cut off” other motorists.
- A tire company: Our law firm has handled countless car accident claims in which defective tires caused crashes. We can recoup damages through a product liability claim if a defective car part led to your collision.
- Car manufacturer: When car parts and equipment fail, it could be a sign of a manufacturing problem. Sometimes, vehicles are recalled because of problematic parts, but not all drivers are aware of the recall. Other times, manufacturers may fail to include certain vehicles in the recall. In any case, our lawyers investigate the vehicle for signs of manufacturing issues.
- A construction company: If the hazards of a construction site cause a car accident, the site owner or construction company may be responsible. Falling objects, debris scattered onto the roadway, and obstructing or mishandled machinery can lead to a car accident.
4. Communicating with the Other Parties
With a Phoenix car accident attorney on your side, you won’t need to worry about what to say to the insurance company. Not only do we provide legal guidance for speaking to the insurance adjuster, but we also do it for you. Our firm manages all case-related phone calls, video conferences, emails, and face-to-face meetings.
You can rest easy knowing you won’t be inundated with questions or requests for documents and information. Likewise, we manage the retrieval of key documents, like medical records, so you don’t have to.
5. Demanding and Negotiating for Fair Compensation
Once your injury lawyer has concluded their investigation and calculated your losses, we can demand compensation from the liable party. We work hard to prepare a case that compels fair and full compensation.
Our Phoenix injury lawyers can negotiate from a viewpoint that includes intimate knowledge of the value of your case, strong insight into traffic and insurance laws, and years of experience countering unfair insurance tactics. This vantage point allows us to negotiate at the highest possible level.
6. Filing an Auto Accident Lawsuit
Our Phoenix car accident lawyers work with insurers to negotiate a fair car accident settlement to the extent that it remains fruitful. If the insurance company is uninterested in awarding an appropriate amount of compensation, we won’t hesitate to file a lawsuit. We are a full-service litigation firm that has tried some of the biggest cases in the country.
What Should I Do After My Car Accident in Phoenix? (5 Steps)
After a serious car accident, the steps you take can directly affect your health, your recovery, and your ability to pursue compensation. The following actions help protect both your well-being and your claim.
1. Seek Medical Attention
Seeking medical care establishes a clear record of your injuries and connects them to the accident. This may involve visiting an emergency room, urgent care provider, or your primary physician.
Medical treatment:
- Documents your injuries for your claim
- Helps determine the full scope of your condition
- Supports your recovery and long-term health
It is important to follow your treatment plan closely. Gaps in care or failure to follow medical advice may be used by insurers to challenge your claim.
2. Limit Communication with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may attempt to gather statements or information that could reduce the value of your claim. Your attorney can manage all communication and protect you from common tactics used to minimize compensation.
3. Understand Your Legal Rights
Many injured individuals are unaware of what they are entitled to after an accident. For example:
- You are not required to give a recorded statement
- You are not obligated to accept an initial settlement offer
- You have the right to consult with a car accident attorney
Understanding these rights helps prevent insurers from taking advantage of the situation.
4. Keep Track of Your Losses
Accurate documentation strengthens your claim. This includes:
- Missed work and lost income
- Medical treatment and related expenses
- Changes to your daily life or ability to function
These details help ensure your claim reflects the full impact of the accident.
5. Be Careful with Social Media
Insurance adjusters may review social media activity for information they can use against your claim. Even unrelated posts may be misinterpreted.
Limiting activity and adjusting privacy settings can help protect your case while it is ongoing.
How Much Compensation Can a Phoenix Car Accident Lawyer Recover for Me?
Arizona follows a "pure comparative negligence" system, meaning even if you are partly at fault for the accident, there is still compensation you can recover. The potential compensation available is determined by the percentage of fault assigned to each party.
An auto accident lawyer in Phoenix can help you recover damages encapsulating your financial and non-financial losses. The exact amount you can recover is indeterminable until you reach maximum medical improvement and we consider your future losses. Only then can your attorney be able to provide an accurate valuation of your case.
Recoverable damages in your car accident claim may include:
- The cost of medical treatment
- Physical rehabilitation
- Accessibility modifications for your home or vehicle
- Mobility aids and other assistive devices (such as a wheelchair, walker, prostheses, etc.)
- Vehicle repairs or replacement costs
- Travel expenses
- Lost income and job benefits
- Permanent disability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of enjoyment of activities
Your specific damages may vary from the above list. By connecting with an experienced Phoenix car crash attorney, you can learn about other types of compensable losses not included here.
Our Firm Can Demonstrate How Another’s Negligence Caused Your Collision
Many car accident cases require your Phoenix car accident injury lawyer to establish negligence.
Using evidence, this means showing:
- The other party had a civil obligation to act with reasonable care, which for motorists means obeying traffic laws and signals.
- The other party violated this obligation through their carelessness, recklessness, or omission.
- The other party caused your car accident and resulting injuries.
- You have damages stemming from the collision, such as pain and suffering, medical bills, and property damage costs.
We don’t have to prove negligence if a faulty vehicular component or car part led to your condition. In a product liability case, we only have to prove that the defective product caused your accident and injuries.
Challenges That Can Affect a Phoenix Car Accident Claim
Insurance companies don’t always act in good faith. Some stoop to low levels to deny auto accident victims compensation. You don’t have to worry about this happening with a car accident lawyer in Phoenix by your side. Our years of experience have given us keen insight into how insurers combat claims.
Our local attorneys are ready to help if:
The Insurer Denies Your Claim
It’s not unusual for an insurer to deny a claim based on its first submission. However, it must offer a reason for the claim’s denial. This allows you to change your strategy based on the insurer’s reasoning.
Some reasons for denied claims include the following:
- There’s not enough information to support your accident’s cause.
- There are disputes regarding fault and liability.
- You don’t have appropriate coverage.
Our team can learn the reason for a denied claim and take appropriate action. This may involve consulting with field experts, reevaluating our legal strategy, and threatening litigation.
The Other Party Denies Fault
If the at-fault party denies responsibility, the driver's insurance company could deny your claim. It may continue denying compensation until you present more evidence or otherwise assert your right to damages. Our team comprises seasoned investigators who know how to prove collisions’ causes.
The Insurer Offers Less Than You Need
You and the liable insurance company have two different goals. You want to recover compensation for your past, present, and future injury-related losses. The insurer wants to make money selling policies and limiting payouts. To reach its goal, the insurer may offer less than you need and pressure you to accept.
Our auto accident lawyers don’t have time for low settlement offers. If the insurer wants to negotiate in good faith, we can do so. If not, we can file a civil lawsuit and pursue what you need in court.
What Can I Expect When I Speak with an Auto Accident Attorney in Phoenix?
You can get answers to some of your most pressing questions. That way, you can put your concerns to rest.
You can learn about:
- The benefits of working with our Phoenix injury team
- Your legal rights and options
- Whether you could file a lawsuit
- Information specific to your situation
- The various laws that apply to your case
- What to expect in a personal injury case
See How Gallagher & Kennedy Can Help
What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Phoenix?
As noted earlier, learning the cause of your motor vehicle accident lets us determine who should pay for your losses. We’ve managed Phoenix car accident cases stemming from:
Driver Error—the Leading Cause of Collisions
Many traffic collisions in Phoenix arise from the wrongful actions of other drivers, including:
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Failing to follow traffic signs and signals
- Weaving in and out of lanes
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or fatigue
- Driver inexperience
- Distracted driving, such as texting
- Aggressive driving
- Improper turns
You could hold their insurance company liable if another driver’s negligence caused your collision. All motorists must carry liability insurance. This could offer a route of pursuing damages in the aftermath of your collision.
Vehicular Malfunction
Vehicle-related problems can also lead to accidents. Some of these issues arise from poor maintenance, and others are out of the driver’s hands—like when a new car comes off the lot with issues.
The most common source of vehicle problems include these malfunctioning or defective auto parts:
You could file a product liability claim if a defective vehicle or car part caused your accident. You could also sue a mechanic if their poor handiwork resulted in your losses.
Environmental Conditions
Environmental conditions, which are entirely out of a driver’s control, contribute to traffic accidents in Phoenix.
Some of these conditions are:
- Road hazards
- Bad weather
- Low light visibility
- Obstructions of view
- Poor road design
- Defective traffic signs and signals
A car accident attorney at our law firm can uncover the cause of your Arizona car accident and pursue the damages you need.
"Statewide, weather conditions such as rain, snow, and dust storms accounted for over 3,400 total accidents, according to AZDOT."
What Injuries Allow Me to Seek Compensation in a Phoenix Car Accident Claim?
Car accident injuries most frequently occur to the legs, arms, face, and head/neck. Even if you suffered another type of injury, you can still seek damages.
Our Phoenix lawyers advocate for car accident claimants who have suffered:
- Lacerations (cuts)
- Abrasions (scrapes)
- Contusions (bruises)
- Fractured arms, legs, and facial bones
- Crushed arms and legs
- Traumatic brain injury
- Head/skull injury
- Neck injury
- Spinal injury
- Pelvic injury
- Chest injury
- Abdominal injury
- Burns
- Amputation
- Internal organ damage
A Phoenix car accident attorney at Gallagher & Kennedy can help you fight for compensation.
We Advocate for Wrongful Death Claimants in Phoenix
If you’ve lost a loved one in a car accident, your family may have the right to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim. While some cases are resolved through insurance negotiations, others may require filing a lawsuit to seek a fair outcome.
Under Arizona law, wrongful death claims may be brought by a spouse, parent, child, or personal representative of the deceased. These cases are intended to address the financial and personal losses families experience after a fatal accident.
Recoverable damages may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support and benefits
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
- Pain and suffering
- Other out-of-pocket losses related to the accident
Our team can evaluate your situation and explain your options with care and clarity during a difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Cases in Phoenix
While weighing your legal options, you may ask:
How Long Does It Take to Recover Compensation After a Phoenix Car Accident?
The timeline depends on factors such as injury severity, liability disputes, and how the insurance company responds. Some cases resolve in a matter of months, while others take longer if litigation becomes necessary. A Phoenix car accident lawyer can help move your claim forward while protecting its full value.
What Is My Phoenix Car Accident Case Worth?
The value of a car accident claim depends on several factors, including:
- the severity of your injuries
- medical expenses and future care needs
- lost income and earning capacity
- available insurance coverage
- the strength of supporting evidence
A Phoenix auto accident attorney evaluates both current and long-term losses to determine what your case is truly worth—not just what an insurer initially offers.
Do I Have to Go to Court to Get Compensation?
Most car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, if the insurance company disputes liability or refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit.
Working with a lawyer who is prepared to go to trial can improve your position during negotiations.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Arizona?
Arizona law generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the two-year period typically begins on the date of death.
Exceptions may apply, so it is important to speak with a Phoenix car accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Will My Health Insurance Cover Treatment After a Car Accident?
Health insurance or MedPay coverage may help pay for treatment initially. However, these payments do not replace your right to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
A Phoenix car accident lawyer can help ensure your medical costs are included in your injury claim.
What If the At-Fault Driver Doesn’t Have Enough Insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still recover compensation through your own UM/UIM coverage or other available policies.
An attorney can identify all potential sources of recovery and develop a strategy to maximize compensation.
How Are Future Losses Calculated After a Car Accident?
Future losses may include reduced earning capacity, ongoing medical care, and long-term limitations. These damages are often calculated using input from medical providers, economists, and vocational experts.
This helps ensure your claim reflects the full impact of the accident over time.
What If I Was Partially at Fault for a Car Accident in Phoenix?
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence system. You can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault, but your recovery may be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.
Insurance companies often use this rule to reduce payouts, which makes strong evidence and legal strategy important.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Car Accident in Phoenix?
You may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- medical expenses
- lost income
- pain and suffering
- reduced quality of life
A Phoenix car accident attorney can evaluate your case and identify all available damages.
Why Does Trial Experience Matter in a Car Accident Case?
Insurance companies consider whether a lawyer is willing and able to take a case to trial. Firms with trial experience are often in a stronger position during settlement negotiations.
If litigation becomes necessary, trial readiness is essential to pursuing a full and fair outcome.
Speak to Gallagher & Kennedy About Your Car Accident Case Today
Auto accidents can result in serious injuries. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an auto accident, a Phoenix car accident attorney at Gallagher & Kennedy can help. We understand how challenging this time is for you and your family. We have the financial wherewithal, experience, and legal team necessary to seek the best possible outcome. Our Phoenix personal injury lawyers deliver high-caliber legal services with compassion. Call us today at (602) 530-8400 for your free consultation.