If you suffered injuries in a car accident, and the at-fault driver left the scene, you can still recover compensation for your losses. You’re going to need to comply with the statute of limitations on hit-and-run accidents in Arizona, however. This is the time frame within which legal action must be initiated.
Statute of Limitations for Arizona Hit-and-Run Accident Cases
In Arizona, the statute of limitations for hit-and-run cases is generally set at two years.
Thus, if you’ve been a victim of a hit-and-run accident, you generally have up to two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. If the statute of limitations expires before you take legal action, your personal injury case will likely be dismissed.
The statute of limitations clock starts ticking from the date of the accident, not from when the identity of the at-fault driver is discovered. This can be a critical factor, as hit-and-run cases often involve challenges in identifying the responsible party.
Tolling of the Statute
If the victim of a hit-and-run accident is a minor or is mentally incapacitated at the time of the incident, the statute of limitations may be tolled until they reach legal adulthood or regain mental capacity. This ensures that individuals who are not in a position to pursue legal action immediately are not disadvantaged by the time constraints.
Hiring an Arizona Accident Lawyer Right Away Is Critical
The two-year statute of limitations for car accident in Arizona isn’t the only reason injured victims should act quickly after a crash. In the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident, hiring a car accident lawyer and taking legal action right away is of paramount importance for several compelling reasons.
- Evidence Preservation: A lawyer can guide you on preserving crucial evidence. This includes gathering witness statements, collecting photographic evidence, and securing any available surveillance footage. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of evidence becoming unavailable or unreliable.
- Insurance Claims: Hit-and-run accidents often involve complex insurance claims. Your attorney can help you navigate the process, work with your insurance company, and explore avenues for compensation, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Investigation: An attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to identify the responsible party. This may involve collaborating with law enforcement, private investigators, and other resources to track down the hit-and-run driver.
- Negotiation and Litigation: Should your case require legal action, your lawyer will represent your interests in negotiations or court proceedings. Your attorney will advocate on your behalf to secure fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.
- Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be incredibly stressful. Having an attorney by your side offers peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your recovery while professionals handle the legal complexities.
- Experience: Attorneys experienced in hit-and-run accident cases understand the intricacies and challenges associated with such incidents. Their knowledge of Arizona’s laws and legal procedures is invaluable in ensuring a successful outcome.
If you or a loved one is involved in a hit-and-run incident, you may find it of benefit to consult with an experienced Arizona car accident attorney to learn more about your legal options.
