Phoenix Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Accidents

An uninsured motorist accident can leave you dealing with serious injuries, mounting bills, and no clear path to compensation. In Arizona, being hit by a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance doesn’t mean you’re out of options. However, it does mean you need to understand how your own coverage and state laws apply.

With roughly 12% of Arizona drivers uninsured, these cases are more common than most people expect. At Zanes Law, our car accident lawyers help injured victims across Phoenix navigate uninsured and underinsured motorist claims, hold insurance companies accountable, and pursue every available path to recovery. We’ll quickly go over what uninsured and underinsured coverage is and your legal options after an uninsured motorist accident.

What Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Arizona?

Under Arizona law, A.R.S. § 20-259.01, insurers must offer uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, but drivers can decline it in writing. These are separate coverage plans, so having one doesn’t mean you automatically have the other.

Here’s a quick look at the differences between the two according to the Arizona Department of Insurance & Financial Institutions:

For a free legal consultation with a uninsured motorist lawyer serving Phoenix, call (866) 499-8989

What Happens If You Don’t Have UM/UIM Coverage?

Many Arizona drivers don’t realize they declined UM/UIM coverage when they signed their car insurance policy. Unfortunately, that decision often proves problematic after a serious accident.

If you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, your options for compensation are limited. These can include:

• Using collision coverage to repair your vehicle (if you have it)
  • This doesn’t cover medical expenses or lost income.
• Filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver
  • Arizona is a fault-based state, so the at-fault driver is legally responsible for the damages.
  • However, many uninsured drivers lack the assets to pay a judgment.

If the at-fault driver has no insurance and no financial resources, recovery may be very limited. This is where the right legal representation can help protect your rights. At Zanes Law, we often uncover options clients didn’t realize they had, such as overlapping policies or additional coverage layers.

Disclaimer: Every case depends on specific policy terms and facts. This information is general and not legal advice. Consult with an uninsured motorist accident lawyer to go over the specifics of your case.

Phoenix Uninsured Motorist Lawyer Near Me (866) 499-8989

Arizona’s Uninsured Motorist Statute: What You Need to Know

Arizona law provides a clear framework for uninsured motorist claims, but the details matter. Missing one deadline or not providing proof can hinder your claim and reduce your chances of filing for the compensation you deserve.

Key points to be aware of include:

Coverage must be offered.

• Under A.R.S. § 20-259.01, insurers must offer UM and UIM coverage with every auto policy.
• Drivers can reject coverage, but only in writing.

Time limits apply.

• Under A.R.S. § 12-555, the Arizona uninsured motorist statute sets a deadline for filing a claim.
• These deadlines can be shorter than typical personal injury statutes of limitations.

Hit-and-run claims require proof.

• Arizona follows a “physical contact rule” under § 20-259.01(M).
• You must show evidence of contact or corroboration.

Comparative fault still applies.

• Your compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault.

Keep in mind that these laws and insurance policies can be interpreted differently depending on the situation. Always consult an attorney about your specific case.

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Steps to Take After an Uninsured Motorist Accident in Phoenix

What you do after an accident can directly impact your ability to recover compensation. Be careful with what you say, gather as much evidence as you can, and get in touch with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Here’s what you can do to help protect your claim:

1. Call the police immediately.
   A police report establishes fault and is often required for UM/UIM claims.
2. Document everything at the scene.
   Take photos of any vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and gather any witness information.
3. Notify your insurance company right away.
   Many policies require notice within a short window after the accident, sometimes as little as 30 days.
4. Do not accept a settlement too quickly.
   Your insurance company may try to minimize payouts, even though you are their policyholder.
5. Get medical attention as soon as possible.
   Medical records are critical for proving the extent of your injuries.
6. Speak with an uninsured motorist accident lawyer.
   A car accident attorney can review your policy, identify coverage, and handle negotiations.

At Zanes Law, we’ve worked with clients in Phoenix who initially believed they had no options, only to discover coverage through careful policy review and legal guidance. Whether it’s diminished value property damage or medical expenses, we make sure all damages are accounted for.

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How Zanes Law Handles Uninsured Motorist Claims

When your own auto insurance company becomes the one you’re negotiating against, the process can feel overwhelming and frustrating. That’s where the right legal experience matters.

At Zanes Law, we take care of the legal process so you can focus on your recovery. Our personal injury team:

• Investigates whether the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured
• Reviews your insurance policy for all available coverage
• Handles all communication with insurance companies
• Documents medical expenses, lost wages, and damages
• Pursues claims against the at-fault driver when appropriate
• Represents you in court if needed

For over 20 years, we’ve helped Arizona families recover after serious accidents. With a 99% win rate and no upfront fees, we focus on getting results while you focus on healing.

Talk to a Phoenix Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you were injured in an uninsured motorist accident in Phoenix or anywhere in Arizona, you don’t have to figure things out alone. At Zanes Law, we offer free, no-obligation case evaluations, and you pay nothing unless we win.

Get in touch with our Phoenix car accident lawyers today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards recovery.

Call or text (866) 499-8989 or complete a
Free Case Evaluation form

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