What to Do After a Car Accident in Arizona: A Step-by-Step Guide for Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and Scottsdale Drivers

If you’ve ever been in a car crash in Arizona, you know how fast everything can change. One minute you’re on your way to work, the next you’re dealing with wrecked cars, injuries, insurance calls, and legal headaches.

Whether the accident happens in Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, or anywhere in the Phoenix metro area, knowing what to do and what not to do can make a big difference in your recovery, your finances, and your legal rights.

At The Law Offices of Daniel J. Marco, PLLC, we’ve helped hundreds of Arizona drivers, passengers, and pedestrians after car accidents. Here’s what you need to know, explained clearly and simply.

1. First Things First: Check for Injuries

Your safety and the safety of others is the top priority. If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s better to get medical help right away. Some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma, don’t show symptoms right away.

Don’t try to move someone who’s injured unless there’s an immediate danger, like fire or traffic.

2. Never Leave the Scene

Even if it’s just a fender bender, don’t drive away. Arizona law requires all drivers involved in an accident to stop and stay at the scene. Leaving too soon, even if no one is hurt, can get you in serious legal trouble.

Stay put, keep calm, and follow the steps below.

3. Move to Safety, If You Can

If your vehicle is blocking traffic but still runs, and it’s safe to move it, pull over to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you. This helps prevent another accident and protects you from further danger.

4. Call the Police

In most accidents involving injuries or significant damage, you’ll want an official police report. The responding officer will document what happened, speak with everyone involved, and write up a report that your insurance company and attorney may rely on later.

If the police don’t respond, you can still file a report at your local police department.

5. Exchange Information with Other Drivers

It’s important to get the other driver’s details. At a minimum, exchange:

• Full names and contact info
• Driver’s license numbers
• License plate numbers
• Insurance companies and policy numbers
• Vehicle make, model, and color, and VIN if possible

Be polite but keep the conversation brief. Don’t argue, don’t apologize, and don’t admit fault. Stick to the facts.

6. Gather Evidence at the Scene

Use your phone to take photos of:

• All vehicles involved (especially damage)
• The street, traffic signs, and skid marks
• Your injuries (if visible)
• The other driver’s car and license plate

If there are any witnesses nearby, get their name and phone number. They could be key in proving what really happened later on.

7. Don’t Admit Fault—Even If You Think You Might Be Wrong

In Arizona, fault is a legal issue that’s decided after reviewing all the evidence. Even saying something like “I’m sorry” could be used against you in an insurance claim or lawsuit.

Instead, focus on making sure everyone is safe, and let the investigation figure out who’s to blame.

8. Report the Crash to Your Insurance Company

As soon as you’re safe, notify your insurance provider. They’ll ask for basic details: what happened, who was involved, and whether there were injuries or damage. Be honest, but don’t give a recorded statement or accept a settlement without talking to a lawyer, especially if you’re hurt.

9. Get Checked Out by a Doctor—Even If You Feel Fine

Some injuries don’t show up right away. You might feel fine after the crash, only to wake up stiff or dizzy the next morning. It’s smart to visit a doctor within 24 to 48 hours after any crash.

If you end up filing a personal injury claim, medical records from the very beginning will help support your case.

10. Save All Records and Receipts

Start a folder (physical or digital) and save everything related to your accident:

• Medical bills
• Repair estimates
• Tow or rental car costs
• Pay stubs showing missed work
• Any letters or emails from insurance companies

Keeping detailed records will help you and your attorney fight for full compensation later.

11. Understand Arizona’s Rules on Fault

Arizona uses something called pure comparative fault. That means you can still recover money for your injuries—even if you were partially at fault. For example, if you were 30% responsible for a crash, you could still collect 70% of your damages.

Insurance companies use this to lower what they pay, so having a lawyer can help make sure they don’t push unfair blame on you.

12. Know the Time Limit to File a Lawsuit

In Arizona, you usually have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit for injuries or damages, but there are exceptions. This is called the “statute of limitations.” If you wait too long, you could lose your right to compensation, no matter how strong your case is.

If your injuries take time to show up (like brain trauma or spinal pain), the clock may start when you discover them. Don’t wait to talk to an attorney.

13. Be Careful What You Say to Insurance Adjusters

After a crash, the other driver’s insurance company may contact you quickly. They might ask for a statement or offer you a fast settlement. Be careful.

Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, not to help you. Don’t say anything, sign anything, or accept money without talking to a personal injury lawyer first.

14. How a Local Arizona Lawyer Can Help

Hiring a car accident lawyer in the Phoenix area can make a huge difference in how your case turns out. At The Law Offices of Daniel J. Marco, PLLC we work with people from all over the East Valley, including:

• Mesa
• Chandler
• Gilbert
• Scottsdale
• Tempe
• Queen Creek
• Phoenix and beyond

We know the local courts, local doctors, and local insurance companies. We’ll deal with the paperwork, the calls, and the negotiations so you can focus on healing.

Whether it’s dealing with a totaled car, fighting for pain and suffering compensation, or handling a complex uninsured motorist claim, we’ve got your back.

15. What You May Be Entitled To

If you were injured in a crash that wasn’t your fault, you may be able to recover:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Car repairs or replacement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Every case is different, and the best way to understand your rights is to speak with an experienced attorney.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Panicked

No one plans to be in a car accident. But if it happens, being calm, careful, and informed can protect your health, your money, and your legal rights.

If you’ve been in a crash in Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Phoenix, or Scottsdale—and you’re unsure what to do next, The Law Offices of Daniel J. Marco, PLLC is here to help. We offer free consultations, and you don’t pay us unless we win your case.

📞 Call Now for a Free Consultation

Don’t wait. The longer you go without legal help, the harder it can be to recover what you deserve. Call us today or visit www.marcoinjurylaw.com to schedule your free case review.

We’re here to serve our neighbors across Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, and the greater Phoenix area. You take care of healing; we’ll handle the rest.