Average Car Accident Settlement in Arizona (2026 Guide)
Quick Answer
The average car accident settlement in Arizona ranges from $15,000 to $70,000 for moderate injuries. Minor accidents with soft tissue injuries typically settle for $5,000 to $15,000. Serious injuries involving broken bones, surgeries, or long-term disabilities can result in settlements from $100,000 to $500,000 or more. Fatal car accidents in Arizona may lead to wrongful death settlements exceeding $1 million. Settlement amounts depend on your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the at-fault driver's insurance coverage limits.
Last Updated: January 2026
Key Takeaways
- Average Arizona car accident settlements: $15,000-$70,000 for moderate injuries
- Arizona uses pure comparative negligence—recover even if 99% at fault
- You have 2 years to file a lawsuit under A.R.S. § 12-542
- Phoenix area has higher accident rates and settlements
- Arizona has one of the highest uninsured motorist rates (around 12%)
Settlement Ranges by Injury Type
| Injury Type | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Whiplash / Soft tissue | $5,000 - $25,000 |
| Herniated disc | $30,000 - $200,000 |
| Broken arm or leg | $20,000 - $100,000 |
| Multiple fractures | $75,000 - $300,000 |
| Traumatic brain injury | $150,000 - $2,000,000+ |
| Spinal cord injury | $500,000 - $5,000,000+ |
| Wrongful death | $500,000 - $4,000,000+ |
What Makes Arizona Car Accident Cases Different?
Arizona's Pure Comparative Fault Rule
- You can recover damages even if you are 99% at fault
- Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
- There is no threshold that bars recovery
Arizona's Statute of Limitations
Arizona Minimum Insurance Requirements
- $25,000 bodily injury per person
- $50,000 bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 property damage
Factors That Determine Your Arizona Settlement
1. Medical Expenses
- Emergency room treatment and ambulance fees
- Hospitalization and surgeries
- Doctor visits and specialist consultations
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Prescription medications
- Future medical care you will need
2. Lost Income
- Wages lost during recovery
- Used sick time and vacation days
- Lost bonuses, tips, or commissions
- Reduced future earning capacity
3. Pain and Suffering
- Physical pain from your injuries
- Emotional distress, anxiety, and depression
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of consortium (impact on your spouse)
4. Property Damage
- Vehicle repair or fair market value if totaled
- Rental car while yours is being repaired
- Personal items damaged in the accident
- Diminished value after repairs
Phoenix-Specific Factors
- High-speed collisions: Freeway accidents often cause more severe injuries
- Distracted driving: Phoenix has significant distracted driving issues
- DUI accidents: Arizona has strict DUI laws, and drunk driving accidents may allow for punitive damages
- Uninsured drivers: Arizona has one of the highest uninsured motorist rates in the country (around 12%)
Common Mistakes That Reduce Your Settlement
- Not calling the police: A police report creates official documentation of the accident
- Admitting fault at the scene: Even saying 'I'm sorry' can be used against you
- Delaying medical treatment: Insurance companies argue delayed treatment means your injuries are not serious
- Posting on social media: Adjusters search your profiles for evidence to use against you
- Accepting the first offer: Initial offers are almost always lowball amounts
- Giving recorded statements: You are not required to give one to the other driver's insurance
- Signing broad medical releases: These allow insurers to dig through your entire medical history
How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take in Arizona?
- Minor injuries, clear liability: 3 - 6 months
- Moderate injuries, some dispute: 6 - 12 months
- Serious injuries: 12 - 24 months
- Cases that go to trial: 2 - 3+ years
When to Hire an Arizona Car Accident Lawyer
- Your injuries require ongoing medical treatment
- The insurance company denies or undervalues your claim
- Liability is disputed
- Multiple vehicles or parties are involved
- You suffered permanent injury or disability
- The at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured
- The insurance company is delaying your claim
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average settlement for a car accident in Phoenix?
Phoenix car accident settlements average $20,000 to $75,000 for moderate injuries. Serious injury cases involving surgeries or permanent disabilities settle for $100,000 to $500,000 or more.
Can I sue if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes. Arizona's pure comparative negligence rule allows you to recover damages even if you are mostly at fault. Your settlement is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
How much can I get for pain and suffering in Arizona?
Arizona has no cap on pain and suffering damages in car accident cases. Amounts depend on injury severity, typically calculated as 1.5x to 5x your medical expenses.
What if the other driver does not have insurance?
You can file a claim under your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage if you have it. Arizona insurers must offer UM coverage, but purchasing it is optional.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Arizona?
You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Do not wait until the last minute—building a strong case takes time.
Do I have to pay taxes on my car accident settlement?
Generally, no. Compensation for physical injuries is not taxable under federal law. However, punitive damages and interest may be taxable. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. Contact an attorney to discuss your specific situation.
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