If you’ve been hurt in an accident, chances are you’ve received advice—some helpful, some not so much. Personal injury claims are often misunderstood, and misinformation can cause people to delay or even forgo seeking legal help when they need it most.
In this article, we’ll debunk five of the most common myths about personal injury claims in Arizona and explain the truth so you can make informed decisions.
Myth #1: You Can’t File a Claim if the Accident Was Partially Your Fault
Truth: Arizona uses a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident.
Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault in a car crash and your damages total $50,000, you could still recover $40,000.
This rule applies in many types of cases, including car accidents, dog bites, and slip and fall incidents.
Myth #2: Personal Injury Lawsuits Are Only About Money
Truth: While compensation is part of the equation, personal injury claims are also about justice and accountability.
Injuries can lead to medical debt, job loss, and emotional trauma. Seeking damages can help victims pay for medical care, recover lost wages, and get support during their recovery. Filing a claim also helps ensure negligent parties are held responsible, which can prevent similar incidents in the future.
Myth #3: All Personal Injury Cases Go to Trial
Truth: Most personal injury claims are resolved through settlements—not court trials.
In fact, the vast majority of cases are handled outside the courtroom through negotiations between attorneys and insurance companies. A trial may only happen if both parties can’t agree on a fair settlement. Even then, preparing thoroughly improves the chances of a positive outcome.
Whether you’ve been involved in a truck accident, dog attack, or any other injury-related event, it’s important to understand that litigation is not always the path forward.
Myth #4: Minor Injuries Don’t Justify a Legal Claim
Truth: Even seemingly minor injuries can have long-term consequences. You might experience delayed symptoms, require follow-up care, or face complications down the line.
Also, “minor” injuries like whiplash, soft tissue damage, or concussions can still interfere with work, sleep, and daily routines.
If you’re unsure whether your injury justifies a claim, consider speaking to a legal professional for insight. Many offer free consultations to help you better understand your situation.
Myth #5: You Have Plenty of Time to Decide
Truth: Arizona has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including those involving car crashes, dog bites, and wrongful death. In some cases—especially those involving government entities—you may have even less time.
The sooner you act, the better. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence, gather witness statements, and secure accurate documentation from doctors or specialists.
Don’t let time run out on your opportunity to seek compensation. If you believe you have a case, it’s best to start the process early.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the truth behind these personal injury myths can help you make better decisions after an accident. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious crash, a dog bite, or the wrongful death of a loved one, being informed is the first step toward protecting your rights.
If you’re looking for guidance on your next steps, visit Folger Law Firm’s contact page to learn more about how they support injury victims across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe, and Peoria.
