A practical guide for drivers dealing
with serious accidents and insurance claims.
First steps to take
How insurance claims work
Do you need an attorney?
What affects your settlement
If your accident was serious, the scene was likely handled by others.
These steps are for when you're in a position to act.
1. Get the police report
2. Gather existing documentation
3. Keep records of your care and treatment
4. Track the impact on your daily life and missed work
All of these increase your case value
5. Know your timeline — 2 years in Arizona
6. Before you talk to insurance — know your rights
Know your rights before you speak to insurance.
After a serious accident, the insurance
company will be in touch — often very quickly.
1. An insurance company assigns someone to your case
2. They make an offer
It is a starting point, not a final number.
3. They may ask for a recorded statement
You are not required to give one before understanding your rights.
What you say can affect your claim.
4. They want you to sign quickly
Once you sign a settlement, the claim is closed permanently.
There is no going back.
Most people think hiring an attorney means lawyers, courtrooms, and big fees.
The reality is completely different.
1. An attorney knows what your case is worth
2. They handle everything
Communication with insurance, paperwork,
negotiations — all of it.
You focus on recovery.
3. They only get paid if you win
No upfront cost.
No hourly fees.
Their fee comes from the settlement —
only if there is one.
4. A free evaluation costs nothing