After an accident, separating fact from fiction in Arizona personal injury laws can be surprisingly difficult. At Hale Injury Law, we regularly hear from clients across Arizona who are hesitant to pursue a claim because of myths they’ve heard from friends, insurance companies, or social media.
It’s time to set the record straight. Whether you were in a car crash in Phoenix, slipped and fell in a Scottsdale store, or suffered a dog bite in Tucson, understanding your rights is crucial. Below, we break down five of the most common myths about personal injury claims in Arizona and reveal the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Personal Injury Claims Take Forever
The Truth: How long your case will take from start to finish depends on the accident itself. There’s no one-size-fits-all; your case is as unique as you! Your Arizona personal injury claim will take all of you into account.
Delays happen when injuries are still being treated, liability is disputed, or the insurance company is dragging its feet. It is important to take the necessary time to treat your injuries and work with your medical providers and legal team.
Insurance companies want to avoid the cost and risk of litigation just as much as you do. If your injuries are well-documented and liability is clear, your claim could be resolved relatively quickly through negotiation.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help move the process along by handling paperwork, following up with adjusters, and applying pressure when necessary.
Myth #2: You Don’t Need to Pursue a Claim for a Minor Injury
The Truth: Even injuries that seem minor at first can lead to long-term complications and expenses.
Whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue injuries might not fully present symptoms until days or even weeks after an accident. If you don’t file a claim early or preserve your right to compensation, you may find yourself stuck paying for physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, or lost wages out of pocket.
Arizona law allows injury victims to recover damages even for seemingly “small” injuries, as long as they can show another party was negligent. Don’t write off your claim before you’ve had a full medical evaluation.
Myth #3: The At-Fault Party Has to Pay Your Medical Bills Out of Pocket
The Truth: In Arizona personal injury claims, it’s usually the at-fault party’s insurance, not the person, that pays for your injuries.
This myth often prevents people from filing a claim because they’re worried about bankrupting a friend, family member, or average person who caused the accident. But that’s exactly why drivers, homeowners, and businesses carry liability insurance.
If you were hit by a negligent driver, for example, their auto insurance is responsible for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In rare cases where the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, your own insurance or legal action may still provide a path to recovery.
Myth #4: If You Have Insurance, You Don’t Need a Lawyer
The Truth: Your insurance company, even your own, may not have your best interests at heart.
Insurers are for-profit businesses. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible, even to their own policyholders. Whether you’re filing a claim through your personal injury protection (PIP), uninsured motorist coverage, or the other party’s liability policy, the insurance company has a team of adjusters and attorneys working to minimize your compensation.
An Arizona personal injury lawyer levels the playing field. They can evaluate your claim’s true value, negotiate directly with insurers, and ensure you aren’t pressured into an unfair settlement.
In many cases, hiring a lawyer results in significantly higher payouts, even after attorney’s fees.
Myth #5: Filing a Legal Claim Means You’ll Have to Go to Court
The Truth: Most Arizona personal injury cases settle long before trial.
Going to court can feel intimidating, and some people avoid filing a claim because they think it means appearing before a judge or jury. But the reality is that over 95% of personal injury claims are resolved through out-of-court settlements.
If a fair settlement can’t be reached, litigation may be necessary, but it’s the exception, not the rule. And even if your case does go to court, your attorney will handle the preparation, represent you, and advocate on your behalf every step of the way.
The Bottom Line: An Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You
The legal system can be confusing—but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re worried about the cost, the timeline, or the stigma of filing a claim, the right attorney can clarify your options, advocate for your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Hale Injury Law, we’ve helped Arizonans debunk these myths and recover financially after serious accidents. If you’ve been injured in Arizona, reach out today for a free consultation.
Don’t let myths and misinformation keep you from getting the support you need. Contact Hale Injury Law today and speak with a real attorney who will fight for your rights because you deserve to heal without financial hardship.