Is a Car Accident a Civil Case?

Typically, a car accident is a civil case. In an auto accident lawsuit, a plaintiff can request damages for their medical bills, pain and suffering, and other quantifiable and subjective losses. A personal injury lawyer can represent the plaintiff, helping them pursue maximum compensation.

With assistance from car accident lawyers in Phoenix, you can ask the party responsible for your auto crash to cover your damages. An auto accident attorney will prepare an argument to help you prove that you are not liable for the crash. If this argument is successful, you could collect 100% of the damages you are requesting. 

Is a Car Accident a Civil Case in Arizona?

A car accident is a civil case in Arizona if a plaintiff seeks damages from a defendant. For example, a driver is tailgating and cannot stop in enough time to avoid slamming their car into yours. At this point, hire a tailgating accident lawyer in Phoenix, and they can file a civil claim for damages on your behalf. 

Following an auto accident, you could get compensation through a liable party’s insurance company. Notify your insurance company about your accident. Your insurer can work with the at-fault party’s insurance company, and, in one of the best-case scenarios, you get the compensation you need to recover financially from your accident. 

Unfortunately, a liable party or their insurer can dispute your insurance claim. Or, an at-fault party may lack sufficient insurance coverage. In these scenarios and others, it is best to have an auto accident lawyer represent you, as they can ask for damages through a personal injury lawsuit. 

For a free legal consultation, call 866-499-8989

Can a Car Accident Be a Criminal Case?

A car accident can be both a criminal and civil case. It becomes a criminal case if the district attorney’s office files criminal charges against an at-fault party based on their unlawful actions. Reasons why the party responsible for an auto accident can face criminal charges include:

• Drunk driving
• Hit and run
• Reckless driving
• Drag racing
• Driving after their license was revoked or suspended

Regardless of the criminal charges an at-fault motorist faces, you can submit a civil claim against them. A personal injury lawyer in Phoenix can guide you through the process of filing a civil claim. They can answer your legal questions and help you make informed decisions at each stage of your litigation. 

How does a Car Accident Civil Case Work?

Start your civil case by finding a car accident lawyer who will serve as your legal advocate and representative. Per Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 12-542, the statute of limitations for a civil claim relating to a personal injury is two years. Your lawyer can submit your claim promptly and, from here, help you in the following areas:

Collecting Evidence

Saying a liable party is responsible for your accident does not guarantee you will recover damages. Your attorney can use accident scene photos and videos, medical records, and other evidence in your case. This body of proof can help you make a compelling argument that leads a judge or jury to award full damages. 

Negotiating a Settlement

You and the defendant can come to terms on a settlement. If the defendant offers a settlement, your lawyer will notify you, and you can review the proposal with them. You are not legally obligated to approve a settlement and can decline an offer without incurring any penalties. 

Bringing Your Case to Trial

If no settlement is reached, you and your lawyer present your case in court. During your trial, the defendant and their attorney will explain why they believe a judge or jury should rule against you. Once a judge or jury hears from both sides and examines their respective evidence, you will find out if you will receive damages. 

The legal process can be complicated, and challenges can come up along the way. Your lawyer addresses legal issues before they escalate. They make sure you can avoid mistakes throughout your litigation and, ultimately, boost your chances of securing the compensation you want. 

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Should You File a Civil Case After a Car Accident?

Filing a civil case after a car accident caused by a negligent motorist can benefit you now and in the future. Your case gives you the opportunity to collect damages. To understand why this is important, consider what will happen if you choose not to submit a claim. 

By forgoing a civil case, you are solely responsible for your accident-related losses. Meanwhile, the at-fault party does not have to pay you anything. They may even file a civil case against you and claim you are liable for your accident. 

When in doubt about whether you should proceed with a car accident lawsuit, consult with a lawyer. Next, an attorney can discuss your legal options and what can happen if you sue for damages. If you decide to submit a claim, your lawyer will help you do just that. 

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Partner with Car Accident Lawyers Who Want You to Get Your Life Back on Track Fast

A civil case may seem overwhelming at first. You do not have to go through your litigation by yourself. Ask for legal assistance from a car accident lawyer, and they can protect your rights as the legal process moves forward. 

Zanes Law is an Arizona personal injury law firm that has helped our clients secure more than $500 million in damages. Let our auto accident lawyers handle your civil case. Schedule a consultation with our attorneys.

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