by Zayed Al-Sayyed

Car accident attorney, Personal InjurySeptember 4, 20240 comments

Arizona Car Insurance Laws

Whether you’re planning to move to Arizona for the first time or have been a long-time resident, it’s important to understand the Arizona car insurance laws you must follow. Like most states, Arizona requires vehicles to maintain a car insurance policy.

In this article, we’ll cover the Arizona car insurance laws you need to be aware of, how insurance factors into an accident, and the minimum liability requirements.

What are Arizona Car Insurance Laws?

Arizona car insurance laws require each motor vehicle that operates on state roads to have some form of liability insurance. This law includes non-traditional motor vehicles, like golf carts, mopeds, and motorcycles. Your Arizona car insurance needs to meet the following liability minimums:

• $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one individual
• $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more individuals
• $15,000 for property damage

Most insurance carriers understand the minimum liability requirements and can construct compliant policies. These minimums are designed to cover medical and property damage bills when you are at fault in an accident.

The Purpose of Arizona Car Insurance Laws

Accidents can be expensive, from damage to vehicles and property and serious bodily injury. Most individuals can’t afford to pay for these expenses out-of-pocket, which is why Arizona has car insurance laws in place. Most Arizona car insurance providers extend your liability coverage to anyone driving your vehicle, like a family member.

Remember, once Arizona car insurance policies thresholds are exceeded, you are personally liable for any remaining financial obligations. This is why many Arizona drivers take out policies in excess of the mandatory minimums. Similarly, you may need another policy in place if you were involved in a car accident and the at-fault party does not have the proper insurance.

Arizona is an At-Fault State

Arizona is an at-fault car accident state. This means that the financial responsibility falls on the individual who caused the accident. However, comparative negligence can come into play, which removes a portion of the burden off your shoulders. Nevertheless, be prepared to be personally responsible for any damage or medical bills resulting from an accident you caused.

Activating Arizona Car Insurance

Once an accident happens, you will file a claim with your insurance provider, even if you aren’t at fault. If you are at fault, your insurance provider will investigate and begin to make payments. If you aren’t the cause of the accident, your insurance company will pursue a subrogation claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.

Penalties for Noncompliance with Arizona Car Insurance Laws

Arizona law enforcement usually asks for proof of insurance during routine traffic stops. If you are unable to substantiate your insurance, you could face suspension of your vehicle’s registration or receive a suspended driver’s license.

To get these items reinstated, you will need to pay fees and file proof of financial responsibility. These penalties multiply if you are involved in an accident and do not have the proper insurance coverage.

Involved in an Accident?

Whether you’re the at-fault party in an accident or trying to recover damages from a driver without insurance, it’s important to work with a qualified attorney. Our team at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed is ready to help you navigate Arizona’s car insurance laws. Reach out today to schedule your free consultation.