PhoenixPersonal InjuryLawyers

While it’s possible to handle a personal injury claim on your own, working with an experienced Phoenix personal injury attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Accident claims can be complex, and insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. 

Here’s why hiring a lawyer is highly beneficial:

Understanding Your Rights

A personal injury lawyer understands the laws governing accident claims and can explain your rights in clear terms.

Without legal guidance, you may miss opportunities to maximize your compensation or put your claim at risk of being denied.

Handling Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are not on your side—they aim to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. Adjusters may use tactics to undervalue or deny your claim, such as:

• Offering a lowball settlement that doesn’t cover all your damages
• Pressuring you to accept a quick payout before you understand the full extent of your injuries
• Twisting your words to minimize liability

An attorney will handle all communications with the insurance company, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you’re not taken advantage of.

Accurately Calculating Damages

Determining the full value of your claim involves more than just adding up medical bills. A lawyer will ensure that all your losses—both economic and non-economic—are accounted for, including:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Attorneys also work with experts, such as doctors, economists, and accident reconstruction specialists, to strengthen your case and support your compensation demands.

Handling Legal Matters

Personal injury claims often involve complicated legal procedures, including filing paperwork, meeting deadlines, and complying with Arizona’s specific laws (like the statute of limitations). Any errors could jeopardize your case.

A lawyer will handle these details, ensuring your claim is filed correctly and on time, so you can focus on recovering.

Building a Strong Case

To prove your claim, you’ll need solid evidence that demonstrates the other party’s liability and the extent of your injuries. A lawyer will:

• Investigate the accident to uncover critical details
• Collect evidence, such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements
• Work with experts to provide testimony supporting your case

This thorough preparation allows your attorney to build a strong case, whether for settlement negotiations or trial.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Lawyers are skilled negotiators who know how to counter insurance company tactics and advocate for the full value of your claim.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Reducing Your Stress

Recovering from an accident is challenging enough without the added stress of handling a legal claim. By hiring a lawyer, you can:

• Avoid the frustration of dealing with insurance adjusters
• Focus on your physical and emotional recovery
• Trust that your case is in the hands of a skilled professional who has your best interests at heart

We understand that injuries can happen in various ways, each with unique challenges and legal complexities. Our experienced Phoenix personal injury lawyers act with dedication to providing comprehensive legal representation across different practice areas.

Here are some of the practice areas we handle:

• Phoenix Car Accident Lawyer: We provide legal support to individuals injured in car crashes caused by others’ negligence. An auto accident attorney can help after a head-on, rear-end, or side-impact accident, advocating for compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
• Phoenix Truck Accident Lawyer: Victims of commercial truck accidents receive our dedicated advocacy. Your truck accident lawyer may go up against teams of corporate attorneys in these cases, working to secure compensation for injuries caused by truck driver negligence, faulty equipment, or unsafe driving practices.
• Phoenix Bicycle Accident Lawyer: We represent cyclists injured due to negligence, especially in accidents involving motor vehicles. A bicycle accident attorney can help you review your options and pursue justice for injuries sustained in these often-devastating crashes.
• Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Motorcyclists face higher risks on the road, and when accidents occur due to the fault of others, we provide comprehensive support. Your motorcycle accident lawyer will fight for fair compensation for medical expenses, pain, and suffering, and any long-term effects from the crash.
• Phoenix Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: We assist those injured as pedestrians while walking on public roads or in crosswalks. A pedestrian accident lawyer can help you through the legal process after being struck by a vehicle or involved in an accident caused by another party’s negligence.
• Phoenix Premises Liability Lawyer: Injuries sustained on another person’s property may lead to a premises liability claim. These cases often involve slip-and-fall accidents, negligent security, or poorly maintained property. A premises liability attorney can guide you through the steps to pursue compensation for your injuries.
• Phoenix Child Injury Lawyer: Our team advocates for children who have been injured due to negligence or intentional harm, including daycare accidents and incidents at school or play areas. A child injury lawyer will work to hold responsible parties accountable and secure compensation for the child’s recovery.
• Phoenix Boating Accident Lawyer: If you’ve been injured in a boating accident on Arizona’s waterways, we offer experienced legal representation. A boating accident lawyer can help you seek justice and compensation for injuries caused by negligent boat operators, unsafe conditions, or defective equipment.
• Phoenix Workers’ Compensation Lawyer: We assist workers who have been injured on the job in securing workers’ compensation benefits. Whether you’re dealing with a construction accident or any other workplace injury, a workers’ comp lawyer will handle your claim and ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
• Phoenix Dog Bite Lawyer: If you’ve been injured in an animal attack, we fight for adults and children seeking compensation for dog bite injuries. A dog bite accident lawyer in Phoenix can help you identify the liable party and pursue the financial recovery necessary for your medical bills and emotional suffering.
• Phoenix Wrongful Death Lawyer: In wrongful death cases, we represent families who have lost loved ones due to others’ negligence or intentional harm. A wrongful death attorney provides compassionate care and diligent legal support to seek justice and compensation for your loss.

The above are just examples of the kinds of cases we handle. No matter the nature of your injury, our dedicated team is here to provide the legal guidance and representation you need to seek justice so you can move forward with your life.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, taking the right steps immediately afterward can strengthen your case, protect your rights, and ensure your well-being. The aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but following these recommendations can set you on the path to recovery and fair compensation:

Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety must always come first. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, visit a doctor or hospital as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions, soft tissue damage, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time if left untreated.

• Follow Doctor’s Orders: Adhere to your medical provider’s recommendations for treatment, therapy, and follow-up appointments. This not only aids your recovery but also establishes a clear medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
• Keep Medical Records: Save all documentation related to your treatment, including bills, prescriptions, and diagnosis notes. These records will be essential for calculating damages in your claim.

Document Evidence

Gathering evidence is crucial for building a strong case. If you’re physically able to do so, collect as much information as possible at the scene of the accident:

• Take Photos and Videos: Capture images of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, hazards, and your injuries. If it’s a slip-and-fall case, document the area where the accident occurred.
• Get Witness Information: Collect the names, phone numbers, and statements of any witnesses. Their accounts may help establish liability.
• Record Details: Write down everything you remember about the accident while it’s still fresh in your mind. Include the time, date, weather conditions, and any other relevant details.

This evidence not only helps strengthen your claim but also protects you if the other party contests your account of the incident.

File a Report

Reporting the accident to the appropriate authorities is an important step in documenting what happened:

• Car Accidents: Contact the police and request an official accident report. This report often serves as a key piece of evidence when determining liability.
• Premises Liability Accidents: If you were injured on someone else’s property, inform the property owner or business manager immediately. Ask for a written incident report.
• Workplace Injuries: Notify your employer about the accident and file a claim through your company’s workers’ compensation system.

Be sure to obtain a copy of any reports filed, as they will be valuable for your case.

Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies

After an accident, you may receive a call from the at-fault party’s insurance company. While it may seem like they’re trying to help, their goal is often to minimize your claim or find reasons to deny it.

• Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as accepting responsibility for the accident. Even saying something as simple as “I’m sorry” can be used against you.
• Don’t Sign Anything: Don’t agree to any settlements or sign any documents without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies may offer a lowball settlement that doesn’t fully cover your damages.
• Refer Them to Your Attorney: Let the insurance adjuster know that your attorney will handle all communication. This ensures your rights are protected and prevents you from being pressured into accepting an unfair settlement.

Contact Zanes Law

The sooner you involve a personal injury attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case. At Zanes Law, we’ll take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your recovery. Here’s how we help:

• Free Case Evaluation: We’ll listen to your story, review the details of your accident, and provide clear guidance on your legal options—all at no cost to you.
• Evidence Collection: Our team will gather additional evidence, such as surveillance footage, expert opinions, and accident reconstruction analyses, to strengthen your case.
• Negotiation and Advocacy: We’ll handle negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. If necessary, we’re prepared to take your case to court.

By contacting a personal injury attorney in Phoenix right away, you’ll gain a dedicated team that’s ready to fight for your rights, protect your interests, and secure the financial recovery you need to move forward.

Remember: Time Is Critical

In Arizona, you have a limited window to file a personal injury claim due to the statute of limitations. Acting quickly not only ensures compliance with legal deadlines but also preserves crucial evidence that could otherwise be lost.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t wait. We’ll stand by your side every step of the way to help you achieve justice and fair compensation.

While minor accidents with superficial injuries probably don’t necessitate legal representation, there are certain situations where hiring an attorney is critical to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. 

Attempting to handle a claim on your own can lead to mistakes, undervalued settlements, or even a denial of your claim. Below are some scenarios where hiring a lawyer is especially important:

Serious Injuries or Permanent Disabilities

If you’ve suffered severe injuries, such as:

• Broken bones 
• Internal bleeding
• Soft tissue injuries requiring treatment/ physical therapy
• Back or neck injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Burn injuries
• Permanent disabilities

The stakes are much higher. These types of injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and longer-term care, which can result in significant expenses.

An attorney will:

• Ensure that the full extent of your injuries is properly documented.
• Work with medical experts to calculate future medical costs and the impact on your quality of life.
• Pursue compensation not just for current expenses but also for long-term care needs, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering.

With so much at stake, hiring a lawyer can ensure you don’t settle for less than you’re owed.

Disputed Liability

When the at-fault party or their insurance company denies responsibility for the accident, proving liability becomes a challenge. Without strong evidence, your claim may be dismissed or undervalued.

An attorney will:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly to determine who was at fault
• Gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and photographs or videos of the accident scene
• Work with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists, to build a strong case demonstrating the other party’s negligence

By hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer in Phoenix, you can level the playing field and ensure your side of the story is heard.

Multiple Parties Involved

Accidents involving multiple parties—such as multi–vehicle crashes, construction site injuries, or accidents involving businesses—can quickly become complicated. Each party may try to shift the blame, and insurance companies may dispute how liability is divided.

In these cases, a lawyer will:

• Identify all responsible parties and determine how liability should be apportioned
• Negotiate with multiple insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation from all liable parties
• Protect you from being unfairly assigned a higher percentage of fault, which could reduce your compensation under Arizona’s comparative negligence laws

Handling a multi-party claim on your own can be overwhelming, but an experienced attorney can handle this for you.

Inadequate Settlements or Denied Claims

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by offering lowball settlements or denying claims outright. If you feel pressured to accept an offer that doesn’t cover your medical bills, lost income, or other damages, it’s time to consult a lawyer.

An attorney will:

• Review the settlement offer to determine if it’s fair.
• Negotiate aggressively with the insurance company for a higher payout.
• Take your case to court if the insurer refuses to offer a reasonable settlement.

Having legal representation signals to the insurance company that you’re serious about your claim and won’t accept less than what you deserve.

Complex Legal or Procedural Issues

Some personal injury claims involve intricate legal or procedural challenges, such as:

• Claims against government entities (which often have stricter filing deadlines and procedures)
• Cases involving defective products or medical malpractice (which require specialized legal knowledge)
• Disputes over jurisdiction or applicable laws in cross–state accidents

Wrongful Death Cases

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, pursuing a wrongful death claim requires a thorough understanding of the law. A lawyer can help you:

• Seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and loss of companionship
• Handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on grieving and healing

Wrongful death cases are often emotionally charged and legally complex, making professional representation essential.

Even if your case doesn’t fall into one of the scenarios above, hiring an attorney can still significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. Here’s why:

• Leveling the Playing Field: Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to protect their interests. Having your own attorney ensures you have someone fighting for you.
• Avoiding Costly Mistakes: An attorney can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as missing deadlines, providing damaging statements, or accepting an inadequate settlement.
• Maximizing Compensation: A lawyer will ensure all your damages—economic and non-economic—are properly calculated and included in your claim.

While it’s not legally required to hire an attorney for every accident claim, doing so can make a significant difference in more complex or high-stakes cases.

It is a good idea to consult with an experienced attorney after any type of accident caused by someone else’s negligence to protect your interests.

The value of a personal injury claim depends on several factors unique to each case. Understanding these factors can help you set realistic expectations and work with your attorney to maximize your compensation. 

Our personal injury attorneys in Phoenix thoroughly evaluate every detail to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Below are the key factors that can influence the value of your claim:

The Severity of Your Injuries

The extent and severity of your injuries are among the most significant factors affecting your claim’s value.

• Minor Injuries: Claims involving minor injuries, such as cuts, bruises, or sprains, typically result in lower compensation.
• Severe or Catastrophic Injuries: Severe injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or injuries requiring surgery and long-term treatment, lead to higher settlements or awards.
• Permanent Disabilities or Disfigurement: If your injuries result in permanent disability, reduced mobility, or scarring, the value of your claim may increase substantially to account for ongoing medical needs and loss of quality of life.

Medical Expenses

The cost of medical treatment directly impacts the value of your claim. These expenses may include:

• Emergency room visits
• Surgeries and hospital stays
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Medications and medical equipment
• Follow-up appointments with specialists

Both past and future medical costs are considered when calculating damages. If your injuries require ongoing care, your attorney will include those anticipated costs in your claim.

Lost Income and Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Lost Wages: The income you’ve already lost due to missed work.
• Loss of Future Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from performing your previous job or reduce your ability to earn in the future, this loss can significantly increase your claim’s value.

Your attorney may work with vocational experts or economists to calculate the long-term financial impact of your injuries.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering damages aim to compensate for the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life you’ve experienced due to the accident. These damages are subjective and can vary widely depending on:

• The intensity of your physical pain and discomfort
• The emotional toll of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD
• The impact of your injuries on your daily life and relationships

An experienced attorney will present compelling evidence, such as medical records and personal testimony, to illustrate the extent of your suffering.

Property Damage

If your personal property was damaged in the accident (e.g., your vehicle in a car accident), the cost of repairs or replacement will also factor into your claim. Providing estimates or receipts for repairs can help accurately calculate this portion of your compensation.

Liability and Comparative Fault

In Arizona, comparative negligence laws determine how fault is assigned in personal injury cases. If you’re partially responsible for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

Because fault has a direct impact on your recovery, establishing the other party’s liability is crucial. Your attorney will work diligently to collect and present evidence—such as accident reports, photographs, expert analyses, and witness testimonies—to demonstrate that the other party was primarily responsible and to minimize any fault attributed to you. 

This process is vital for maximizing the compensation you receive.

Available Insurance Coverage

The amount of insurance coverage available plays a significant role in determining how much compensation you can recover. For example:

• Auto Accidents: The at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits may cap the amount you can receive.
• Premises Liability: Property owners may have liability insurance that covers your damages, but the policy limits may restrict recovery.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault party has insufficient insurance, your own insurance policy may cover the remaining damages, depending on your coverage.

Your attorney will investigate all potential sources of compensation to ensure you recover the maximum amount possible.

Evidence and Documentation

Strong evidence can bolster your claim and increase its value. This includes:

• Police or accident reports
• Photos and videos of the accident scene and your injuries
• Medical records and bills
• Witness statements
• Expert testimony (e.g., medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists)

The more evidence you have to support your claim, the stronger your negotiating position will be during settlement discussions or in court.

Every personal injury case is unique, and the value of your claim depends on a combination of factors. We take the time to thoroughly evaluate your case, gather compelling evidence, and develop a strong strategy to maximize your compensation.

Understanding the legal process can make filing a personal injury claim less intimidating. Our firm is committed to guiding you through every step with care, transparency, and professionalism. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

Initial Consultation

The first step is a free, no-obligation consultation with our team. During this meeting, we’ll listen to your story with compassion, ask questions to understand the details of your case, and evaluate the potential for compensation. 

We’ll explain your legal options in clear, straightforward terms and help you decide on the best course of action. This consultation is your opportunity to ask questions, share your concerns, and get a sense of how we’ll approach your case.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Once you hire us, we’ll immediately begin investigating your case. A strong personal injury claim relies on solid evidence, so our team will:

• Collect police reports, medical records, and accident scene photos
• Interview witnesses to gather firsthand accounts of the incident
• Consult with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or economists, to strengthen your claim
• Review insurance policies and other relevant documents to identify all potential sources of compensation

We leave no stone unturned in building the strongest case possible for you.

Filing the Claim

After gathering the necessary evidence, we’ll prepare and file your personal injury claim. This involves drafting legal documents, outlining the damages you’ve suffered, and submitting the claim to the appropriate insurance companies or parties. 

We ensure that all paperwork is completed accurately and submitted within Arizona’s statute of limitations, protecting your right to pursue compensation.

Negotiations

Most personal injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations rather than going to trial. During this phase, we’ll communicate directly with the insurance companies or opposing parties, presenting the evidence we’ve gathered to demand a fair settlement.

Insurance companies often try to undervalue claims, but our team is experienced in handling these tactics. We’ll negotiate aggressively on your behalf to ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. 

Throughout this process, we’ll keep you informed and consult with you before making any decisions.

Trial (if Necessary)

While many cases settle out of court, some require litigation to achieve a fair outcome. If the opposing party refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.

During a trial, we’ll present compelling arguments, backed by evidence and expert testimony, to demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the negligence of the at-fault party.

Our trial attorneys are skilled litigators and will fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. 

Our focus is on providing personalized and compassionate legal support while delivering results. We understand that an injury can be one of the most challenging experiences of your life, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s what sets us apart:

Decades of Experience

With years of experience handling personal injury cases, we’ve developed a deep understanding of Arizona’s legal system and what it takes to win. Our team has successfully handled even the most complex cases, ensuring that our clients receive the compensation they deserve.

Proven Track Record

Our 99% success rate speaks for itself. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients, helping them rebuild their lives after devastating accidents.

Whether through settlements or courtroom victories, our results reflect our dedication to achieving justice for every client we represent.

Client-Centric Approach

From the moment you contact us, we prioritize your well-being and recovery. We understand the emotional toll an injury can take, so we take care of the legal aspects while you focus on healing.

You’ll receive personalized attention and regular updates, ensuring you always feel supported and informed.

Free Case Evaluations

We believe everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we offer free no-obligation consultations to assess your case and explain your legal options.

Additionally, our contingency fee structure means you don’t pay unless we win your case. This removes the financial burden and allows you to pursue your claim with confidence.

Comprehensive Legal Support

Personal injury cases can involve a wide range of challenges, from negotiating with insurance companies to gathering evidence and filing claims.

Our attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and determination to handle every aspect of your case. You can trust us to fight tirelessly on your behalf.

Relentless Advocacy

Whether negotiating with insurers or presenting your case in court, we’ll fight fiercely to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.

Local Knowledge

As a Phoenix-based law firm, we have a deep understanding of local laws, courts, and processes. This insight gives us an advantage when representing clients in Arizona and ensures that every case is handled with precision and professionalism.

In Arizona, claimants generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit from their accident or injury. It’s important to note that this two-year period only applies if your incident happened within the borders of Arizona; however, there are exceptions to extend that timeframe.

For example, there can be differences based on certain factors, like whether minors were involved in the incident or if a government agency caused harm due to its employees’ negligent behavior.

Some cases also involve medical malpractice claims, which might require specialized advice from experts who understand Arizona laws related to these types of lawsuits.

We guide you through categorizing your accident and filing a related claim. This process begins with us identifying a liable party.

These parties can include:

• Other drivers
• Small businesses
• Corporations and manufacturers
• Delivery companies
• Landlords
• Dog owners
• Public entities

When considering who to hold liable for your injury, think about who owed you a duty of care at the accident scene. All the parties mentioned above must behave reasonably to avoid harming others.

Anything from deliberate recklessness to accidental attention slips can lead to a civil court case. To prove liability, you or an attorney must establish a duty of care between yourself and the allegedly liable party.

From there, you must use evidence to indicate that the breach of that duty of care contributed to your injuries. You may only request compensation for your losses if you can tie them back to that original duty.

Personal injuries can profoundly impact an individual’s life, causing physical pain, psychological trauma, and financial hardships. Our team has handled a wide range of cases involving bodily injuries.

While the types and severity of injuries vary widely, certain medical conditions are common in personal injury claims. Here are some of the injuries our Phoenix personal injury law firm encounters regularly:

• Whiplash: Often associated with car accidents, whiplash injuries occur due to the rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck. This kind of neck injury can result in pain, stiffness, and other discomforts.
• Broken Bones: Breaks and fractures can happen in various accidents, such as falls, car crashes, or workplace incidents. These injuries require medical attention and may involve lengthy recovery periods.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments. TBIs often result from accidents involving head trauma.
• Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs): Injuries to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis, impacting an individual’s mobility and quality of life. Spinal cord injuries frequently result from motorcycle accidents, car accidents, falls, or acts of violence.
• Burn Injuries: Burns can range from mild to severe and may require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries and skin grafts. These painful injuries can result from fires, chemical exposure, or electrical accidents.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries affect tendons, ligaments, and muscles and can lead to pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. They often occur in car accidents, slips, and falls.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, such as the spleen, liver, or kidneys, can be life-threatening and often result from high-impact accidents.
• Amputations: Losing a limb due to an accident has profound physical and emotional consequences, requiring extensive rehabilitation and adaptive measures.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Injuries can lead to visible scarring and disfigurement, affecting an individual’s self-esteem and overall well-being.
• PTSD: Emotional injuries like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can result from traumatic events, such as car accidents, violent incidents, or injuries. PTSD can have a lasting impact on mental health.
• Chronic Pain: Some injuries lead to long-term or chronic pain, significantly affecting an individual’s daily life and well-being.
• Infection: Injuries that break the skin can lead to infections, which can be severe if left untreated. A Phoenix personal injury accident attorney can track the costs of caring for an infection.

Any of these injuries can result in substantial medical expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering. If you or someone you love has sustained any of these injuries due to someone else’s negligence, seeking legal advice and pursuing compensation for your losses is vital.

Personal injury cases can involve a wide range of challenges, from negotiating with insurance companies to gathering evidence and filing claims. Our attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and determination to handle every aspect of your case. You can trust us to fight tirelessly on your behalf.

When you choose us,  you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re gaining a dedicated team that’s committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.

We treat every client like family, and we’re passionate about helping you move forward after an accident. Let us put our experience, dedication, and compassion to work for you.

Doug Zanes has served Phoenix, AZ, as a personal injury and accident attorney since 1997.

He operates the Phoenix office on N 42nd Street and E Thomas Road, centrally located in the Phoenix/Scottsdale/Tempe area, ensuring that locals can access expert personal injury services at the drop of a hat.

Zanes is joined by a team of personal injury lawyers with over 80 years of combined experience. Each accident attorney strives to help clients achieve full compensation for their pain, suffering, and related losses.

We understand that a personal injury claim can feel overwhelming. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions our clients have to help you feel more informed and confident about the process.

How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Case?

The timeline for resolving a personal injury case varies depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, the extent of your injuries, and whether a settlement can be reached or if the case goes to trial.

• Quick Resolutions: Some cases settle within weeks or a few months, especially when liability is clear and the insurance company is cooperative.
• Moderate Timelines: Cases involving more severe injuries, disputed liability, or higher financial stakes may take several months to resolve as negotiations continue.
• Longer Timelines: If a fair settlement cannot be reached and your case goes to trial, it may take a year or longer to achieve resolution.

Our legal team will work diligently to resolve your case as quickly as possible without compromising the value of your claim.

We understand the financial and emotional strain you may be experiencing, and we’ll keep you updated throughout the process so you’re never left wondering about the status of your case.

How Much Will I Have to Pay for a Phoenix Personal Injury Lawyer?

We believe that everyone deserves access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. Here’s what that means for you:

• No Upfront Costs: You won’t pay anything out of pocket to hire our firm.
• We Only Get Paid if You Win: Our fees are a percentage of the settlement or court award you receive, so there’s no financial risk to you.
• Transparent Fee Structure: We’ll explain our contingency fee agreement in detail during your initial consultation, so you fully understand how we’re compensated.

This arrangement allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about legal fees. It also ensures that we’re just as motivated as you are to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Can You Recover Compensation if You Hold Some Blame?

Arizona addresses its civil cases through the lens of comparative negligence. Therefore, you retain the right to financial compensation after an accident, regardless of whether or not you contributed to your injuries.

That said, comparative negligence impacts how much compensation you can take away from a case. If you receive a settlement offer via trial, the court will reduce that settlement by the percentage you contributed to your accident.

For example, if you are 10% responsible for a car accident, you’ll be denied 10% of your total compensation.

That said, we can contest accusations of fault in your case.

Should You Accept an Insurance Company’s Settlement Offer?

If you have insurance at the time of a personal injury accident, you need to file a claim with your own insurance provider. Depending on the allegations of fault, you may then receive a settlement offer from the at-fault party’s insurer.

While the insurance company sometimes makes these offers in bad faith, they often represent a company’s desire to avoid going to court.

With that in mind, do not accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney first. We can calculate your accident’s worth and ensure an insurance company doesn’t short you.

Can You Sue Your Employer for Something That Happened at Work?

If your employer pays for workers’ compensation insurance, that coverage protects them from lawsuits that might cite negligence as the cause of your injuries. As a result, bringing a personal injury lawsuit against your employer can be difficult.

Should you have concerns about your treatment in the workplace, you can file a complaint with Arizona’s workers’ compensation system. Alternatively, you can work with a personal injury lawyer to see whether a manufacturer, delivery team or another third party contributed to your workplace losses.

While you cannot bring a personal injury lawsuit against your employer, you can bring one against a subcontractor. With that in mind, don’t hesitate to consult with a member of our team. One of our attorneys can help you determine your legal rights after a workplace accident.

Are There Caps on Personal Injury Compensation?

Fortunately, Arizona does not place damage caps on the compensation you can receive if you win your personal injury case. With that in mind, our team fights for the maximum compensation for your injury.

We’ll work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for the damages you are entitled to.

If you sustained injuries due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.

Will Your Personal Injury Case Automatically Go to Trial?

A personal injury case does not automatically go to trial. Instead, you must submit your complaint and wait for the county clerk to proceed. If a judge determines that you have the grounds for a case, you can move to negotiations or a trial.

In either situation, you’ll have the right to summon a liable party with legal backing. If you opt to participate in negotiations, our attorneys can arrange meetings with the liable party outside of court. We can then discuss your optimal compensation based on our estimates.

We can move personal injury negotiations to trial if the liable party appears uncooperative. Alternatively, you can take your case straight to court. Either way, the decision of whether or not to go before a judge is up to you.

Can I Receive Punitive Damages for My Losses?

You can receive punitive damages for personal injury losses. Judges tend to assign punitive damages to cases involving gross negligence or excessive recklessness. In turn, these damages are designed to prevent the defendant and other parties from engaging in similar behavior.

That said, you may not request punitive damages in your initial complaint. These damages are only awarded at a judge’s discretion. With that in mind, please do not include them in your estimate or request them in court.

What Is Arizona’s Comparative Negligence Rule?

Arizona is one of the few states that has adopted a modified hybrid form of comparative negligence. Suppose the court finds an injured victim partially at fault for their injuries. In that case, they may still recover financial compensation from those primarily responsible, even if it’s only a percentage of the total damages.

Many personal injury cases involve some level of shared responsibility between two or more parties. When assessing liability in any given case, courts consider whether someone involved had a duty of care towards another person and how much control each party had over the situation before the incident occurred.

Under this rule, anyone over 50% responsible for an incident cannot receive compensation from any other party. If both parties share equal percentages, neither will collect anything.

Hiring an attorney can make a massive difference in the outcome of your case in this situation. An experienced lawyer will work to ensure fault is assigned accurately.

Determining whether you have a valid claim is the first step in gaining access to much-needed financial compensation. An experienced Phoenix personal injury lawyer can review your case and let you know if you have a valid claim.

Any situation in which someone else’s negligence has caused physical, emotional, psychological, or financial harm is grounds for seeking damages from that person or entity. Examples include medical malpractice, car accidents, premises incidents, defective products causing harm, or wrongful death cases due to negligence.

Schedule a free consultation with our Phoenix personal injury lawyers today.