Insurance Claim Rights in Arizona
Arizona is a pure comparative fault state, allowing injured drivers to recover damages even when mostly at fault. The state has relatively low minimum liability limits at 25/50/15. Arizona's desert climate and long highway distances mean accidents can be severe, making adequate coverage important.
25/50/15
Min. Liability
2 yrs
PI Deadline
2 yrs
PD Deadline
Yes
Diminished Value
Fault System
How Arizona's At-Fault (Tort) System Works
Arizona is an at-fault (tort) state. This means the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for the other party's damages. After an accident, you file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company. If the claim is denied or undervalued, you have the right to file a lawsuit to recover your damages.
Deadlines
Statute of Limitations in Arizona
Personal Injury
2 Years
You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Arizona. Missing this deadline permanently bars your right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Property Damage
2 Years
For property damage claims (vehicle repairs, total loss, personal property), Arizona allows 2 years to file a lawsuit. This includes diminished value claims if applicable. Report damage to your insurer as soon as possible: report to insurer promptly; within 30 days recommended.
Coverage Requirements
Minimum Auto Insurance in Arizona
Arizona requires all drivers to carry at least 25/50/15 in liability coverage. These numbers represent the minimum bodily injury per person / bodily injury per accident / property damage limits in thousands of dollars. While these are the legal minimums, higher coverage is strongly recommended.
Bodily Injury / Person
$25,000
Maximum per injured person
Bodily Injury / Accident
$50,000
Maximum per accident total
Property Damage
$15,000
Maximum for property damage
Diminished Value
Diminished Value Claims in Arizona
Arizona Allows Diminished Value Claims
After an accident in Arizona, your vehicle may lose market value even after high-quality repairs — this is called "diminished value." Arizona allows you to file a diminished value claim against the at-fault driver's insurance to recover the difference between your vehicle's pre-accident and post-repair market value. The amount recoverable depends on the vehicle's age, mileage, damage severity, and repair quality.
Calculate your diminished valueKey Laws
Important Insurance Laws in Arizona
Arizona follows pure comparative fault — you can recover damages even if you are 99% at fault (A.R.S. § 12-2505).
Arizona requires mandatory liability insurance; driving without it can result in license and registration suspension.
Insurers must acknowledge receipt of a claim within 10 working days (A.A.C. R20-6-801).
Resources
Arizona Department of Insurance
If you have a complaint about your insurance company or need help with a claim dispute in Arizona, contact the state Department of Insurance. They regulate insurance companies operating in Arizona and can assist with claim disputes, bad faith complaints, and coverage questions.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Insurance Claims
What happens if the other driver doesn't have insurance in Arizona?
Arizona does not require uninsured motorist coverage, but it is highly recommended. If you are hit by an uninsured driver, you would need to rely on your own uninsured motorist coverage or sue the at-fault driver directly, which may be difficult to collect on.
How does Arizona's comparative fault affect my claim?
Under Arizona's pure comparative fault rule, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault but never eliminated entirely. If you are found 40% at fault in a $50,000 claim, you would receive $30,000.
Can I file a diminished value claim in Arizona?
Yes, Arizona allows diminished value claims against the at-fault party's insurance. You can seek compensation for the loss in your vehicle's market value after it has been properly repaired following an accident.
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