por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Arizona Seat Belt Laws

When you slide into the seat of a motor vehicle, your first move should always be to click your seat belt into place. For many of us, this is an immediate instinct. For others, their car’s beeping seatbelt signal reminds them to buckle up. We know to wear our seat belts, but why? And what exactly are the Arizona seat belt laws?

Arizona seat belt laws are intended to keep drivers and passengers safe and sound while traveling in the Grand Canyon State. According to the most recent data from the NHTSA, seat belts lower the risk of serious physical injury by up to 50 percent and cut the risk of death by up to 45 percent.

Today, our car accident attorneys are explaining everything you need to know about seat belt laws in Arizona so you can stay safe and avoid fines while on the road.

Seat Belt Laws in Arizona

The driver and all front-seat passengers must wear a properly fastened chest and waist strap while traveling in this secondary seat belt state. By law, back-seat passengers are not required to wear a seat belt. However, this back-seat exception does not pertain to children.

In Arizona, all passengers under the age of 16 years must buckle up regardless of where they are seated. If you’re driving with a child and they have not fastened their seat belt, you’re responsible and law enforcement can ticket you for seat belt offenses.

Anyone traveling in the front seat of a motor vehicle should always wear a seat belt and law enforcement can ticket you if they catch you in motion without one.

Child Car Seat Requirements in Arizona

For minors between the ages of 1 and 4 years old, Arizona car seat laws require that minors should sit in a front-facing seat. Children between 5 and 7 years old should use booster seats. Once the child reaches 8 years of age, they can sit in the vehicle without a booster seat or car seat, but they must wear a seat belt at all times.

Consequences of Violating Arizona Seat Belt Laws

In Arizona, the fines for violating seat belt laws will vary depending on the number of people not using them. The first offense usually attracts a minuscule fine of $10 for each passenger. If there are any kids under the age of 5 years old in the vehicle who are not secured in a car safety seat, you’ll be subject to a minimum fine of $50 dollars.

Because Arizona is a secondary seat belt state, you cannot be pulled over solely for not wearing a seat belt. You must have committed another traffic offense first. The fines associated with Arizona seat belt laws might seem relatively minor, but if you are involved in an accident, the medical costs and losses could be much higher.

Reasons for Wearing Seat Belts

The injury and choking hazards associated with the improper use of seat belts are significantly high. It’s important to use the correct restraint for your child’s age, weight, and height. Seat belts are designed to secure drivers and passengers against the dangerous movements that could occur during a sudden stop or car crash.

Adults and children alike should wear a seat belt at all times when riding in a motor vehicle. Wearing a car seat belt could be the difference between you or a loved one walking away from an accident relatively unscathed and facing severe injuries or even death. Protect yourself, your loved ones, and other drivers on the road by buckling up.

Expert Car Accident Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

Unfortunately, many people experience pain and suffering in car accidents, even while complying with Arizona seat belt laws. If you or someone you care about has been injured in a car accident, it’s important to consult with a skilled car accident attorney as quickly as possible.

We utilize our Aggressive Compassionate Representation to ensure that you are treated with the utmost compassion while we aggressively pursue the best outcome for your case. Contact our Phoenix car accident attorneys today for more information or to schedule a free consultation.

 

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

5 Reasons to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer After Your Accident

 

Getting involved in a car accident can be an incredibly scary and stressful situation. Oftentimes, accidents result in painful injuries, property damage, and costly medical bills. If you were involved in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, it’s essential to consult with a car accident lawyer to support you through the legal process.

There are many reasons to hire a car accident lawyer after your accident. From helping you understand the damages of your accident to negotiating with insurance companies, your attorney will serve as the advocate fighting in your corner.

Today, our team at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed is explaining some of the top reasons to hire a car accident lawyer after your accident. Not sure yet? Keep reading!

1. Understanding of the Law

Dealing with a personal injury claim without the help of a professional can be confusing, stressful, and will likely result in getting a much lower compensation amount than you otherwise would have, if any at all. By working with an experienced car accident lawyer, you can utilize their wealth of knowledge to get the settlement you deserve.

2. Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are notorious for taking advantage of people and finding ways to get out of giving them the compensation they are entitled to. Lawyers have plenty of experience dealing with insurance adjusters and will negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive a fair compensation for your car accident.

3. Proving Negligence

In most personal injury cases, proving negligence is a critical piece of the puzzle. It can also be incredibly difficult to do so without the help of an experienced attorney. The success of your case will depend on whether or not you are able to prove negligence, which your lawyer will do on your behalf.

4. Supporting Your Claim

In any car accident case, your claim is only as strong as the evidence you have to back it up. By thoroughly investigating your case, your attorney will collect evidence to support your claim.

From accident reports and medical records to photos and witness statements, an experienced car accident lawyer will make sure you have everything you need to win your case.

5. Taking Your Case to Court

If the negotiations don’t go as planned, your car accident lawyer will help you file a court case and ensure that all of the paperwork is in order. On your court date, they will be able to present your evidence and utilize their skill and knowledge to give you the best possible chance at a positive outcome.

Best Car Accident Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one have recently been in a car accident, the first and most important step is to consult with a skilled Phoenix car accident lawyer. Our team will guide you through this difficult process and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.

With our Aggressive Compassion Representation, we promise to aggressively pursue the best possible outcome for your case while treating you with the utmost compassion. Contact us today to set up a free consultation with one of our top-rated Phoenix car accident attorneys.

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What Are the Most Common Injuries From Car Accidents?

All over the world, accidents happen every day. In 2020, there were 98,778 motor vehicle crashes in Arizona alone that resulted in 28,610 injuries. As car accident attorneys, we are often asked ‘what are the most common injuries from car accidents?’

Injuries sustained from car accidents can range from whiplash and bone fractures to traumatic brain injuries and even death. Today, our legal team is explaining some of the most common injuries from car accidents to be aware of.

1. Neck and Back Injuries

Neck and back injuries are easily the most common types of injuries from car accidents. This includes a wide range of issues like whiplash and spinal cord injuries.

While neck and back injuries can start out seeming minor, they can manifest into more serious problems later on. In some cases, they even turn into lifelong complications.

2. Broken Bones and Fractures

The physical impact of a car crash can be brutal on the body, which oftentimes leads to broken bones and fractures. Arms, wrists, legs, ribs, and ankles are some of the most commonly broken and fractured bones that result from car accidents.

These types of injuries can vary in severity, but are generally fixable within a few months. However, they can still cause a tremendous amount of pain and hefty medical bills.

3. Internal Injuries

When a car crash takes place, the force of the impact can push your body into an object or cause you to be hit by flying debris. This often causes damage to internal organs, which can lead to internal bleeding and requires immediate medical attention.

4. Brain Injuries

If you suffer a blow to the head in a car accident, you may suffer a traumatic brain injury. This happens when great physical impact to the head damages or destroys delicate brain tissue.

Traumatic brain injuries can lead to permanent difficulties with cognitive skills, movement, and the ability to work. As with any other injury, brain injuries can range from mild to severe. While some only cause short-term issues, others can lead to a lifetime of pain, frustration, and costly medical bills.

5. Muerte por negligencia

When the negligence or recklessness of a driver causes a fatality of the driver or a passenger in the car they hit, this is called wrongful death. In 2020, there were 970 fatal motor vehicle crashes in Arizona.

This obviously causes a tremendous amount of pain and suffering to the loved ones of the deceased, so there is often significant compensation involved to help ease the family through the grieving process.

Top-Rated Car Accident Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one have recently been in a car accident, the first step is to consult with a skilled Phoenix car accident attorney. We will work to guide you through this difficult process and ensure that you get the compensation you are owed.

With our Aggressive Compassion Representation, we promise to aggressively pursue the best possible outcome for your case while treating you with the highest levels of compassion and respect. Contact us today to set up a free consultation with one of our top-rated Phoenix car accident attorneys.

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Arizona Car Accident Statistics

Accidents are, unfortunately, part of life. In Arizona, vehicle accidents happen every day. In 2020 alone, there were 98,778 total crashes in the state of Arizona. While this number is lower than the number of crashes in years past, a large part of that is due to COVID-19 keeping many people at home more often than ever before.

By learning more about the facts surrounding Arizona car accident statistics, you can better understand the dangers of the road and take every precaution needed to stay safe. Knowing why accidents happen can help you to minimize the risk you face.

If you have been involved in an accident that was caused by the negligence of another party, you should consult with a car accident attorney as early on as possible. Our team of legal experts at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure that you get the best possible outcome for your case.

Overview of Vehicle Crash Statistics in Arizona

Each year, the Arizona Department of Transportation releases a comprehensive report of motor vehicle crash facts pertaining to the state. Through this report, we are able to learn a great deal about the types of accidents that take place, the impacts these accidents have, and how they can be prevented in the future.

Below is a brief overview of Arizona’s 2020 crash statistics:

• Urban – 85,244
• Rural – 13,534
• Alcohol Related – 4,506
• Pedestrian – 1,523
• Pedalcycle – 830
• Motorcycle – 2,317
• Single Vehicle – 17,766
• Multi-Vehicle – 81,012

As you can see, the majority of Arizona car accidents in 2020 took place in urban areas. This is not uncommon, as these areas have the highest populations and therefore the highest concentration of vehicles on the roads.

Crash Victim Statistics

Of the 98,778 vehicle accidents that took place in Arizona in 2020, 28,610 of them resulted in injuries and 970 resulted in fatalities. 35,155 of the total number of people injured occurred in urban crashes and 2,863 injuries were the result of an alcohol-related crash.

Alcohol continues to play a significant role in Arizona car accidents, as the statistics show us year after year. It’s important to note that alcohol is not just a prevalent cause of accidents in Arizona, but all over the country.

Here are some 2020 Arizona crash victim statistics to be aware of:

• Approximately 2.89 people were killed each day.
• Approximately 113 people were injured each day.
• 13,512 vehicle crashes involved a hit and run driver.
• Alcohol-related crashes accounted for 16.8 percent of all fatal crashes.
• 57,204 people involved in motor vehicle crashes did not have a valid driver’s license.
• Children under the age of 14 accounted for 2,104 injuries and 41 fatalities.

Fatal Accident Statistics

Year after year, holidays like Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas prove to be fatal for drivers and passengers across the nation. Arizona is no exception.

In 2020, there were 11 fatal crashes on Memorial Day and 12 fatal crashes on Thanksgiving alone. Understanding the dangers of driving on holidays and the importance of driving properly at all times can help us to stay safe on the roads.

Below are some of the most notable statistics regarding fatal accidents in Arizona:

• There were 970 fatal crashes in 2020, 163 of which were alcohol-related.
• 587 fatal crashes took place in urban areas.
• 337 people were killed in speed-related crashes.
• 208 drivers involved in fatal accidents were under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• 235 pedestrians were killed in fatal motor vehicle accidents.
• 160 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents involving motorcycles.

Types of Arizona Vehicle Accidents

As you could likely guess, alcohol and speed are two of the most significant factors in motor vehicle crashes. This is not only the case in Arizona, but all over the country. That being said, there are many other factors that come into play as well.

Below are some of the most important statistics to be aware of, regarding types of Arizona vehicle accidents in 2020:

• January was the peak month for all motor vehicle crashes.
• Friday was the peak day for all motor vehicle crashes.
• The hour between 4PM and 5PM was the peak time for all motor vehicle crashes.
• February and September were the peak months for all fatal crashes.
• Friday, February 14th (Valentine’s Day) was the peak date in 2020 for all motor vehicle crashes.
• The hour between 6PM and 7PM was the peak time for all alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes.
• Daylight was the most common time of day for accidents, accounting for 67,043 of all motor vehicle crashes.

Economic Losses from Arizona Vehicle Crashes

Many people don’t realize what an enormous impact vehicle crashes have on Arizona’s economy. Car accidents come with a tremendous cost in property damage, medical bills, and inability to work. In 2020, Arizona motor vehicle crashes accounted for $17.193 billion in total economic losses to the state.

Below are the statewide economic losses that Arizona faced in 2020 due to motor vehicle accidents:

• Fatalities – $10,057,747,147
• Suspected Serious Injuries – $1,695,536,920
• Suspected Minor Injuries – $2,443,229,556
• Possible Injuries – $2,257,534,615
• Property Damage Only – $739,034,640

Top-Rated Car Accident Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motor vehicle accident in Arizona, it’s important to reach out to a licensed car accident attorney. When you work with the skilled attorneys at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, you are guaranteed the Aggressive Compassionate Representation we are known for.

We will aggressively pursue the best achievable outcome for your case, while treating you and your loved ones with the utmost respect and compassion. Contact us today to set up a free consultation with one of our top-rated Phoenix car accident attorneys.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Can a 16-Year-Old Drive with Friends in Arizona?

One of the main perks of finally learning how to drive is being able to drive your friends around. Even the most mundane of errands can be a blast when you’re a newly licensed driver experiencing freedom and the open road for the first time ever.

This begs an important question: can a 16-year-old drive with friends in Arizona? Today, our skilled attorneys at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed will be answering that question. Whether you’re newly licensed or a seasoned driver, it’s important to understand the rules of the road.

Driver’s License Laws in Arizona

In the state of Arizona, once you graduate from a learner’s permit to a driver’s license, there is a set of restrictions you must abide by for the first six months. These restrictions are as follows:

• With some exception, you may not drive between the hours of 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.
• You are responsible for ensuring that your passengers have their seatbelt on
• Use of hand-held communication devices is strictly prohibited
• Unless your parent or legal guardian is in the passenger seat, you may only have one non-family passenger under the age of 18 in the vehicle

For the sake of our key question ‘can a 16-year-old drive with friends in Arizona’ it’s important to pay close attention to that last item on the list. For the first six months of being a licensed driver, you may only drive with one non-family passenger under the age of 18, unless a parent or legal guardian is also with you.

So, as a 16-year-old licensed driver in Arizona, you may only drive with multiple friends after the first six months of having your license. Once you’ve gotten through those first six months without any violations, you are free to safely drive your friends around. Then, at age 18, you will be eligible to apply for your Class D driver’s license.

Penalties for Teen Driving Violations in Arizona

In the event that you get pulled over for speeding, running a stop sign or red light, or violating any of the aforementioned restrictions, you are at risk of having your driver’s license revoked. Furthermore, that six-month probationary period of restriction can be extended if you are found guilty of negligence while driving.

It is important to follow this rule regarding the number of allowed passengers as a car full of rowdy friends opens the door for distractions galore. As a new driver, it is essential that you maintain your focus on the road to ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

Top Personal Injury Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident or gotten a ticket, the first step is to consult with a skilled Phoenix personal injury lawyer. With our dedicated team of lawyers on your case, you are guaranteed the Aggressive Compassionate Representation we are famous for.

This approach promises aggressive pursuit of the best possible outcome, as well as the utmost compassion for you and your family. Contact us today with any questions you might have or to set up a free consultation with one of our legal experts.

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What Happens if You Get Caught Driving with a Permit By Yourself in Arizona?

One of the first rules new drivers in Arizona learn is that you can only drive with a learner’s permit when a licensed driver over the age of 21 is with you. We get it—having a learner’s permit feels like being so close to freedom, yet so far. Still, rules are rules.

Rules like this are in place to ensure the safety of you and everyone else on the road. So, what happens if you get caught driving with a permit by yourself in Arizona? In this easy-to-read article, the skilled personal injury lawyers at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed are answering that very question.

Driving Without a License in Arizona

Oftentimes, the term “driving without a license” is attributed to individuals who own a driver’s license, but simply forgot it at home. However, this term also applies to you if you’re driving with a learner’s permit by yourself in Arizona. It also holds a more severe penalty for you, as opposed to those who own a license but left it at home.

If you have a license but simply didn’t have it on your person at the time of getting pulled over, there’s typically a small fine and a court date to prove to the judge that you are a licensed driver. On the other hand, if you have not yet been issued a driver’s license by the Arizona MVD, then the charge is considered a class 2 misdemeanor.

Consequences of Driving Without a License in Arizona

A quick ride to the store with only a learner’s permit may seem like an innocent enough offense, but the weight of a class 2 misdemeanor is heavier than many people realize. The potential consequences of being caught driving with a permit by yourself in Arizona include:

• Up to 4 months in jail
• Up to 2 years of probation
• As much as $750 in fines
• Community service

The Importance of Driving with a Licensed Driver

If you’re a teenager with a brand new learner’s permit, having to ride with a 21-year-old may feel a lot like you’ve got a babysitter riding shotgun. The reality is that driving with a licensed driver in the car is an integral part of learning how to drive.

They are there to coach you through proper driving practices, highlight any errors for correction, and help you ultimately become a better driver. In the event of a mishap, this accompanying driver should be prepared to intervene and take control of the vehicle to avoid a potential accident.

Top Personal Injury Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

When you seek out The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed to handle your traffic violation or car accident case, you are guaranteed the Aggressive Compassionate Representation our past clients know and love us for. This approach promises aggressive pursuit of the highest possible settlement, along with the deepest compassion for you and your family.

If you or a loved one is in need of a personal injury attorney in Phoenix, contact us today to set up a free consultation with one of our skilled legal professionals.

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Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

With natural beauty at every turn, driving in Arizona can be a beautiful and relaxing experience. That is, unless you get pulled over with a suspended license. Driving on a suspended license in Arizona is, in fact, against the law. But what exactly does this mean? What happens if you get caught driving on a suspended license in Arizona?

Today, our team of experienced traffic offense attorneys is sharing everything you need to know about driving on a suspended license in the Grand Canyon State. From potential penalties to viable defenses, we’ve got it all covered. Should you ever find yourself indicted for this offense, know that The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed is here to help.

Penalties for Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

Driving on a suspended license in Arizona is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor. Therefore, if you are pulled over by a police officer and it is found that your license has been suspended, the officer is permitted by law to arrest you.

In this event, your vehicle can legally be impounded for up to 30 days. Subsequently, you can be charged in court and face a maximum punishment of up to 6 months jail, 3 years of probation, and/or over $4000 in fines and surcharges.

Charge Dismissal for Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

A judge has the authority to dismiss charges filed against a person for driving with a suspended license in Arizona. However, this dismissal can only occur if your license was suspended on the grounds of unpaid traffic fines. If this is the case, you may be permitted to pay the outstanding fines and have your license restored.

Viable Defenses for Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

Below are the viable defenses for driving on a suspended license in Arizona, explained.

1. Absence of Criminal Intent: This is the most relied-on defense in cases of suspended licenses. Its effectiveness lies in the fact that driving on a suspended license is not a strict liability crime. The State has to prove that you had notice of the suspension. This defense comes to play when it can be proven that no notice of a suspended license was received by the accused person. Basically, this tells the court that you had no idea your license was suspended to begin with.
2. Insufficient Notice from the DMV: In the event that your license is suspended, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is expected to mail a notice of suspension or revocation to your last known address. However, if it can be shown that they failed to give adequate notice, then your case can be dismissed.
3. No Evidence of Driving: If you were charged for driving on a suspended license but were not seen driving or there is not sufficient evidence to prove that you were driving, your case can be dismissed.
4. Rights Violation: If there was no reason for you getting pulled over, an incidence of statements obtained illegally, denial of access to counsel, or any other kind of rights violation, this can provide reasonable grounds for case dismissal.

Top Criminal Defense Law Firm in Phoenix, AZ

Here at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, our award-winning team of Phoenix lawyers provides exceptional services for misdemeanors, traffic offenses, DUIs, and more. If you find yourself facing charges for driving on a suspended license in Arizona,  it’s important to contact a skilled criminal defense attorney.

When you work with us, you will have the assurance of a strong criminal defense attorney defending your rights. If you or a loved one are facing misdemeanor charges in Arizona, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

 

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How Long Does a Suspended License Last in Arizona?

It might seem obvious that you should not drive with a suspended license, but many people underestimate the seriousness of this offense. Driving on a suspended license in Arizona can lead to costly penalties, so it’s important to be aware of the facts.

Some of the most common offenses that result in a suspended license in Arizona are careless driving, driving without insurance, driving under the influence, and unpaid fines. One question that people frequently ask is, “how long does a suspended license last in Arizona?” Our team at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed is here to answer that.

Penalties of Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

Knowingly driving on a suspended license in Arizona is illegal. It is a  Class 1 misdemeanor. Potential consequences include prolonging your license suspension, hefty fines, a jail sentence of up to 180 days, a probation period of up to 3 years, and having your vehicle impounded for up to 30 days.

While these are solely maximum sentencing options and only a small number of cases ever result in jail time, driving with a suspended or revoked license is still clearly not a risk worth taking.

A Suspended License on Your Record in Arizona

A license suspension will remain on your driving record for 12 months. The same applies to traffic points for road offences. Any penalties faced for a suspended license violation are civil penalties, not criminal sentences. However, the longest-lasting consequence or penalty you could expect to face is an increase in your car insurance premium.

This will be the largest cost that will come from getting caught driving on a suspended license because these increases in insurance are always long-term. In some cases, insurance companies even cancel policies purchased by people that get their licenses suspended for critical offenses.

What To Do if You are Charged with Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

If you are charged with driving on a suspended license, the best thing you can do is get a skilled attorney. Not only can they help you contest the charges, but they will have knowledge on how you should proceed with your case.

Before you make any statements, negotiations, or court appearances, consult with a criminal defense attorney in Phoenix to understand your rights and odds. An experienced criminal defense attorney will offer the best strategies to fight the penalties or get your charges dismissed.

Top Criminal Defense Law Firm in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one are facing charges for a suspended license in Arizona, our award-winning team of attorneys can help. Whether you are hoping to contest the charge or looking to learn more about your options, an experienced lawyer can guide you through the process.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out why our clients think we are the best criminal defense law firms in Phoenix, AZ.

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Can You Drive Someone Else’s Car in Arizona?

Did you ever take your mom’s car to the grocery store as a teenager? Or your girlfriend’s car to go to work when yours was in the shop? For nearly every driver, there comes a time when you might need to drive someone else’s car. Whether it was an emergency or you simply asked a favor of someone, we have all been there.

However, this begs a few questions: can you drive someone else’s car in Arizona? Is it legal? Are you covered by insurance? In this article, our team of experienced attorneys is answering all of the internet’s burning questions about driving someone else’s car.

Will the Other Person’s Insurance Cover You?

When someone loans you their car, they are basically loaning you their auto insurance along with it. If the person does not have car insurance, it’s a general rule of thumb that you should not get behind the wheel of their car. Both you and the car owner can get into a lot of trouble if you are caught driving without proper insurance coverage.

In Arizona, automobile insurance typically follows the car, rather than the driver. Unless the insurance company is particular about having a list of “named drivers” who are covered by insurance, anyone who gets behind the wheel is typically covered in the event of an accident.

There is, however, a condition. In order to be protected by insurance, the driver must have a valid driver’s license. Most auto insurance policies contain a legality known as the “omnibus clause.” This states that the policy holder’s insurance will cover any driver of their vehicle, as long as they are licensed to drive a car.

The Omnibus Clause

Under the omnibus clause in an auto insurance policy, if a friend lets you use their car and you get into an accident where you are found to be at fault, your friend’s insurance policy will cover any damage up to the policy’s limits. Unfortunately, your friend will also be responsible for paying the deductible and any other costs not covered by the policy.

What to Check before Driving Someone Else’s Car

Before driving someone else’s car in Arizona, there are a few things you should confirm.

 

1. The person’s insurance policy. You should confirm that the person has an existing insurance policy on their car and that in the event of any mishap, there are no restrictions against other drivers.
2. Your own driver’s license and insurance policy. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and an auto insurance policy of your own. If you do not have either, it is best that you work towards obtaining both before getting behind the wheel of any car.
3. Proof of insurance and car registration should be in the vehicle. Along with your driver’s license, these are items that a police officer would ask for in the event that you get pulled over or an accident occurs. Ask the car owner to show you where to find these documents in their car, so you know exactly where to look if needed.

So, while the answer to “can you drive someone else’s car in Arizona?” is yes, it is something you should carefully consider beforehand. It’s also important to note that while insurance may cover the cost of repairs in an accident, any traffic points assigned for an accident or driving misconduct will go on your record.

Top Car Accident Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

Here at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, our skilled team of car accident attorneys handles each case efficiently and with compassion. After experiencing a car accident, many people become overwhelmed and end up being taken advantage of by greedy insurance companies. We don’t let that happen.

Our Aggressive Compassionate Representation ensures that you have someone who will aggressively fight for your rights, while treating you with compassion and respect. If you or a loved one has been in a car accident in Phoenix, call us today for a free consultation.

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When should you get a lawyer for a car accident?

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in the Phoenix, Arizona (AZ) area, you may be wondering: should I get a lawyer involved? The truth is that car accidents are no small matter — even if significant injury or death did not occur, it is probably time to call an attorney.

The fastest way to decide if you need an attorney after a car accident is to receive a free consultation to determine if a lawyer is right for your situation. Additionally, consult the following question checklist to establish whether your accident merits further legal action:

Did serious injury or death occur?

If parties were seriously harmed or even killed in the car accident, you should contact a lawyer immediately. These accidents usually signal the beginning of a long and complicated lawsuit — one you cannot and should not handle on your own.

Serious injury cases in Phoenix, AZ often involve costly damages, and the potential risk of remaining unrepresented is far greater than the cost of hiring an attorney to represent you throughout the length of the claim.

Are you unable to work because of injuries sustained in the accident?

 If you suffered bodily harm that prevents you from returning to your job, an attorney can help you gain compensation resulting from your inability to work. This is especially true if you have suffered a permanent injury that will impact your ability to earn for the rest of your life.

Were multiple parties involved in your accident?

The more vehicles that are involved in a car accident, the more complicated insurance claims and settlements become. As these cases become increasingly complex, it is important to contact a lawyer who can help you negotiate with every party involved — you, your insurance company, the other parties, and their insurance companies.

Do you believe you were wrongly accused of being at fault for the accident?

 If, in the aftermath of an accident, the police report indicated you were at fault — when you believe you were not — it is best to call a lawyer. It will not be easy to prove that you were not the party at fault in the accident by yourself. Fortunately, an attorney can help you negotiate and collect evidence that speaks to your innocence.

Was the accident a result of negligence on the part of another party?

If the other party in the car accident was negligent in some way, you should contact an attorney. Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ can help you collect compensation based on the fact that you were injured due to the negligence of another.

Is your insurance company denying you your own coverage?

Sometimes, insurance companies act in bad faith. Even if you have insurance that covers the specific type of damages or injury you have sustained, they may not pay you for your claim — without even investigating your situation. If this occurs, it is time to call an attorney, who will help negotiate your claim and help you receive the funds you deserve.

Almost always, the answer is to pick up the phone

These are some of the situations in which you might need an attorney after an auto accident, but the truth is that many more exist. That is why when it comes to car accidents, the answer is almost always: call a lawyer.

Getting an attorney involved from the very beginning is the best way to prevent yourself from accidentally saying or doing something that might prevent you from gaining the compensation and legal justice you deserve.

The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed PLLC provides excellent service for clients in the Phoenix, AZ area who are victims of a car accident. Call or contact our legal team today for a free consultation to determine how you can gain compensation after an auto accident.