Stay Calm. Stay Safe. Know Your Rights.
Car accidents happen fast, but the choices you make in the moments and hours after the crash can have a lasting impact on your health, your insurance claim, and even your legal rights. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, knowing what to do immediately after a car accident in Arizona can make all the difference.
At Grabb & Durando, we’ve been helping Tucson accident victims for nearly 30 years. Here’s our trusted guide for what to do right after a crash.
1. Move to Safety and Check for Injuries
Your safety comes first. If the crash is minor and your vehicle can still move, pull off to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance. Don’t attempt to move injured persons unless they’re in danger of further harm.
2. Call the Police, Even for Minor Accidents
Under Arizona law (ARS § 28-663), you’re required to notify law enforcement if the accident results in injury, death, or significant property damage.
Even if you believe the crash was minor:
- A police report creates an official record.
- It helps determine fault.
- It’s often required by insurance companies.
Request a copy or note the report number for later reference.
3. Exchange Information With the Other Driver
Gather essential contact and insurance information:
- Full name and phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
Be polite, but don’t admit fault or discuss the details of what happened. Let the facts and the professionals determine liability.
4. Document the Scene
Use your phone to take detailed photos of:
- Vehicle damage (all angles)
- License plates
- Road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks
- Visible injuries
- The overall scene (weather, lighting, location)
Also note:
- Time and date of the accident
- Names and contact info of witnesses
These details can be crucial for your injury claim or lawsuit.
5. Seek Medical Attention Promptly
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor within 24–48 hours. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away.
Medical records create a clear timeline linking the accident to your injuries—a key part of any personal injury case.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid speculation.
If you’re contacted by the other driver’s insurer, don’t give a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer first. They may try to use your words to limit their liability.
7. Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer in Tucson
Arizona follows a pure comparative fault system—you can recover compensation even if you’re partially at fault. However, your damages may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
That’s why it’s critical to:
- Understand your legal rights
- Preserve evidence
- Avoid early settlement offers
At Grabb & Durando, we offer free consultations and never charge upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
Key Takeaways
- Call 911 and report all accidents with injuries or damage.
- Document everything: photos, details, witness info.
- Seek medical care right away—even if injuries seem minor.
- Avoid admitting fault or giving recorded statements.
- Contact a trusted car accident lawyer in Tucson before speaking to insurers.
Let Grabb & Durando Fight for You
If you’ve been injured in a crash, you don’t have to go it alone. The team at Grabb & Durando will handle the legal details so you can focus on healing.
We’ve helped thousands of clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Let us put our experience to work for you.
Call now or contact us online for a free consultation.
