Personal Injury Lawsuit in Arizona
Filing a personal injury lawsuit in Arizona is a structured legal process. Understanding the steps, deadlines, and pure comparative fault rules will help you make informed decisions about your case.
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.
2 years
Filing Deadline
Pure comparative fault
Fault System
At-Fault
Auto System
$15,000 – $70,000
Avg Settlement
Lawsuit Steps in Arizona
Hire an Attorney
Most personal injury attorneys in Arizona work on contingency — no upfront fees. They evaluate your case and advise on whether litigation makes sense.
Investigation & Evidence
Your attorney gathers medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions to build the strongest possible case.
Demand & Negotiation
Before filing suit, your attorney typically sends a demand letter and attempts settlement. Most cases resolve without going to court.
File the Complaint
If negotiations fail, your attorney files a complaint in the appropriate Arizona court. You must file within 2 years of the injury.
Discovery
Both sides exchange evidence, take depositions, and may hire expert witnesses. Discovery typically takes 6–18 months.
Mediation / Trial
Most cases settle during or after discovery. If not, your case goes to trial before a judge or jury under Arizona court rules.
Key Arizona Law Facts
Arizona follows pure comparative negligence — injured victims may recover damages regardless of their percentage of fault, with the award simply reduced proportionally, allowing recovery even when the plaintiff is primarily responsible for the accident.
Under A.R.S. § 12-542, personal injury lawsuits must be filed within 2 years of the accident date; claims against government entities require a 180-day administrative notice of claim before suit can be filed.
Arizona does not operate under no-fault auto insurance rules; it is a traditional at-fault tort state, meaning the party responsible for the accident bears financial liability for resulting injuries and property damage.