If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, you may wonder whether you have cause to seek compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. Thankfully, our Phoenix car accident law firm can review your legal options and help you determine your next steps. Here’s why you should call today for a free consultation.

1. Navigating the Legal Maze

Car accident attorneys understand the law and how it applies to your situation. Their knowledge and expertise will help your case go more quickly and smoothly than if you tried to navigate the process on your own.

2. Expertise in Claim Valuation

Calculating medical costs and lost wages can be more complicated than you’d expect — and that’s to say nothing of assigning a dollar value to pain and suffering. Your attorney understands how claim valuation works and will make an appropriate assessment of the amount you’re owed.

3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

The other driver’s insurance company has no incentive to offer you a fair settlement. Your car accident lawyer is an experienced negotiator who will handle all the communication with the insurer to protect your rights and attempt to secure the compensation you deserve.

4. Proving Liability

The amount of research that goes into proving liability in a car accident case is considerable, ranging from examining the police report to securing medical records, digging up witness testimony, and more. An experienced accident lawyer will uncover the facts about your accident and build a case on your behalf.

5. Helping You Find Medical Resources

Your attorney has contacts within various fields related to their work, including the medical profession. Suppose you’ve been unable to secure appropriate medical treatment for your injuries. In that case, your lawyer might be able to connect you with healthcare providers and negotiate medical liens with them to get the care you need.

6. Contingency Fees Mean No Upfront Costs

In injury cases, it’s common for attorneys to work on a contingency basis. A contingency fee means your lawyer won’t charge you upfront and will only collect payment if they successfully secure compensation for you. Their fees will come out of the total compensation amount.

7. Reducing Stress

Car accidents are traumatic events, and between your injuries, the stress of being unable to work, and wondering how you’ll pay your medical bills, you shouldn’t have to worry about your legal case. Your lawyer takes this stress off your plate so you can focus on recovery.

8. Access to Expert Witnesses

It may be necessary to secure testimony from expert witnesses who can offer their opinion on the extent of your injuries. Your car accident attorney has connections with experts in various subject areas and can reach out to these individuals on your behalf.

9. Litigation

There’s a possibility your case will wind up in court. Your lawyer will have significant experience arguing cases like yours at trial and will understand the various procedures involved with appearing in the courtroom setting.

10. Advocacy and Support

The aftermath of an accident is a stressful and challenging time. When you hire an attorney, you benefit from their advocacy and dedication to your case. You can trust them to fight for the justice you deserve.

Contact Our Phoenix Car Accident Attorney Today

Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer is an experienced car accident law firm serving Phoenix-area clients. If you’ve been injured in a collision, our team would be happy to help you understand your legal options and pursue the full and fair compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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Motorists who familiarize themselves with safe driving tips can reduce their risk of getting into catastrophic collisions. Here are some safety tips to remember when traveling on the road. 

Understanding Road Safety in Phoenix

Critical road safety tips that drivers should know include:

• Avoid driving faster than the speed limit.
• Refrain from driving after consuming alcohol or drugs or while feeling tired or sleepy.
• Always use your seat belt.
• Obey all stop signs and traffic signals.
• Practice defensive driving, which involves avoiding aggressive behaviors and expecting the unexpected from other motorists.
• Maintain a safe following distance from other drivers.
• Drive safely when changing lanes.
• Avoid distractions, such as your cell phone, while driving.
• Perform all recommended maintenance for your vehicle, including the proper tire pressure.

Phoenix motorists should also learn safe driving tips for winter. After precipitation during the winter months, overnight lows might approach freezing temperatures, potentially leading to the formation of black ice that can pose a hazard for the morning commute. In that case, keep a reasonable distance between your vehicle and the car ahead of you in case you need to come to a sudden stop.

Safe Driving Practices in Challenging Conditions

Although famous for its hot, dry weather, Phoenix regularly experiences bad weather conditions that require drivers to take extra precautions. The Phoenix area can experience severe weather, such as dust storms, flooding, and monsoons. Tips for safe driving in adverse weather conditions include:

• Following weather reports and avoiding driving during predicted severe weather events
• Pulling off the road into a rest stop or parking lot when severe weather makes it too dangerous to continue driving. If you need to pull off to the side of the road, activate your vehicle’s hazard lights
• Reducing your speed when driving in heavy precipitation or low visibility. Turn on your vehicle’s low-beam headlights and use your hazard lights when driving well below the speed limit
• Increasing your following distance

Legal Considerations for Drivers

Drivers involved in accidents should familiarize themselves with Arizona’s laws governing car accidents:

• §28-661: Drivers in an accident resulting in injuries or death must immediately stop at or return to the accident scene.
• §28-663: After an accident, drivers must provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to others involved in the crash, show their driver’s license upon request, and provide reasonable assistance to those injured in the crash (including calling emergency medical services if necessary or requested by an injured person).
• §28-664: Drivers who collide with unattended motor vehicles must stop and either locate the vehicle’s owner/operator or leave a written note giving one’s name and address and the name/address of their vehicle’s owner.
• §28-666: Drivers in accidents resulting in injury or death must report the crash, orally or in writing, to the local police, county sheriff, or nearest highway patrol office.
• §28-674: After a crash, drivers should move their vehicles from the roadway to the shoulder, emergency lane, median, or another place off the road if they can safely drive their vehicle.

Finally, drivers should remember that the statute of limitations typically requires them to file a car accident lawsuit within two years of a crash.

What to Do If You’re Involved in an Accident

After a car accident, the steps you should take to protect your legal rights include:

• Obtain a copy of the police crash report.
• Request your medical records of your treatment/rehabilitation.
• Follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations and recovery instructions.
• Keep bills, invoices, and receipts of expenses from the crash.
• Gather your pay stubs or income statements if you suffer a loss of earning capacity due to the accident.

Finally, contact a car accident lawyer to get help obtaining compensation for your injuries and losses.

Contact our Phoenix Car Accident Attorneys to Learn More

If you’ve been in a crash in Phoenix, get experienced legal help to pursue accountability and financial recovery. Contact Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer today for a free, no-obligation consultation with our knowledgeable legal team to discuss your legal options for securing compensation.

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Semi-trucks are the lifeblood of the transportation industry. Every year, these machines transport goods across the nation, ensuring that the things we need are where we need them. Unfortunately, these mammoth vehicles can cause catastrophic accidents when mishandled, and these accidents may impact victims for the rest of their lives. At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, we focus on helping people injured in Phoenix truck accidents get the compensation they deserve after collisions involving semi-truck drivers. The goal of any insurer or semi-truck company is to protect themselves, not you. That means offering as little compensation as possible, leaving you to pick up the pieces. Has a semi-truck accident hurt your physical and financial health? Let our experienced semi-truck accident lawyers help you understand what to do after an accident with a semi-truck.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident

Commercial vehicle accidents can be traumatizing. You may be injured and in shock after a collision, making it challenging to get your thoughts together and act. At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, we want to help you understand what to do immediately after an accident. 

• Contact the authorities and emergency services
• If possible, document the scene as thoroughly as possible
• Exchange information with the semi-truck driver
• Seek medical attention for your injuries immediately
• Ask witnesses for their contact information

Your priority following a truck accident injury is to protect your well-being. Always seek medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible. In the days and weeks following the crash, stick to your doctor’s treatment plan, keep all bills and paperwork related to the crash, and contact a skilled semi-truck accident lawyer for help.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents

Driving a large commercial vehicle is a demanding job. Many drivers work on tight deadlines, driving hours at a time to meet their company’s goals. Pressure, stress, fatigue, and distractions are standard in the trucking industry. However, these factors can also be dangerous and lead to devastating accidents. Some of the most common causes of semi-truck accidents on Arizona roadways include:

• Fatigued driving
• Distracted driving
• Driving while impaired or intoxicated
• Speeding
• Unsafe lane changes
• Failure to yield
• Aggressive driving
• Mechanical defects
• Driver inexperience

Truck drivers unfamiliar with Arizona terrain may also be surprised by sudden monsoon storms in the South and snowstorms in the North. Inclement weather conditions may also contribute to some commercial vehicle collisions.

Navigating Legal Challenges in Phoenix 

Seeking financial recovery after a semi-truck accident can be challenging. Who is liable? How can you prove the truck driver or trucking company is to blame? Evidence is the key to establishing liability. However, obtaining the evidence you need to build a solid claim is much easier with the help of an experienced Phoenix semi truck accident attorney. An attorney can help gather the vital information you need before it can be lost or destroyed. An attorney can also help you understand Arizona’s comparative fault system and how it may impact your claim. Arizona follows a pure comparative fault model, meaning that in civil lawsuits, your compensation diminishes by the same percentage of fault you bear for causing a crash. For example, if you are found to be 25 percent responsible for the collision, your compensation is reduced by 25 percent. 

Contact a Phoenix Truck Accident Lawyer Today 

A truck accident injury can change your life. Pursue the compensation you deserve and talk to the experienced legal team at Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer for help. Contact our Phoenix office for a free consultation. 

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Semi-truck accidents can be devastating, leading to life-altering injuries, significant property damage, and even fatalities. Truck accident victims are often overwhelmed and not sure what to do next. However, there are three semi-truck accident laws that can help you understand your rights after this type of crash. Our Arizona semi-truck accident attorney is also an excellent source of information, and we offer free consultations so you can learn more about your rights.

Hours of Service Regulations

Arizona observes the federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations that govern commercial truck drivers. These federal regulations, set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), dictate the maximum hours a truck driver can operate their vehicle within specific timeframes. If a driver violates these regulations or their employer orders them to ignore them, these parties could be held liable in a truck accident lawsuit.  14-Hour Driving Window Commercial truck drivers can drive up to 14 consecutive hours per day. Within this span, they can drive up to 11 hours if they’ve had at least ten straight hours of off-duty time.  11-Hour Drive Time Limit Commercial operators cannot exceed 11 total driving hours within any continuous 14-hour period. Once they’ve reached 11 hours, they must take at least 10 hours off-duty before the 14-hour driving window resets. 30-Minute Break Requirement Commercial vehicle drivers must take a 30-minute off-duty rest break if they drive more than eight consecutive hours following their last off-duty period. This mandatory break can consist of any combination of mealtime, sleeper-berth time, or other off-duty intervals. 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit Commercial drivers may not work beyond 60 hours in a seven-day workweek or 70 hours in an eight-day workweek. To reset their weekly work hours, drivers must take a continuous off-duty break of at least 34 hours.

Trucking Weight Limits 

Exceeding weight limits can lead to compromised vehicle stability, decreased maneuverability, and longer stopping distances. Like many states, Arizona enforces strict weight limits on commercial trucks to mitigate the associated risks of overloading:

• Maximum weight for single-axle vehicles is 20,000 pounds
• Weight limit for tandem axle vehicles is 34,000 pounds
• Maximum weight for vehicles with five or more axles is 80,000 pounds

If trucks exceed this weight limit, it puts everyone on the road at an increased risk of an accident. 

Arizona’s Comparative Fault System for Truck Accidents

It is important to note that in Arizona, an injury victim who is partly to blame for an accident can still seek compensation through a truck accident claim. Arizona’s comparative fault system for truck accidents allows injured parties to seek compensation if they are up to 99 percent at fault for the accident. However, in such a case, the injury victim’s monetary award will be reduced in proportion to their share of responsibility. For instance, a person seeking $100,000 in injuries who is found to be 20 percent to blame for an accident can receive up to $80,000.

How an Attorney Can Help After a Semi-Truck Accident

Semi-truck accident lawsuits are often difficult to navigate without the proper knowledge, training, and resources. Plus, hiring a semi-truck accident lawyer could provide an answer to the common question: what is the average settlement for a semi-truck accident? An experienced truck accident attorney can help by: 

• Compiling and examining evidence
• Determining liability
• Assessing injuries
• Negotiating a settlement

Contact Our Arizona Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you were hurt in a semi-truck accident, you need effective legal representation to seek compensation. At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, we can advocate for your rights and pursue financial relief. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. 

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It might feel like time is standing still when you are in pain after a car accident. But if someone’s negligence resulted in your injuries, you have a short time to pursue legal action. Waiting too long could eliminate your chance to seek compensation for medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Statute of Limitations

Arizona’s statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits is generally two years. This means you have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. However, many personal injury lawsuits begin as insurance claims. It takes time to gather the necessary medical records, receipts, and other documents to file a claim. You must also consider how much time you might spend negotiating to reach a settlement figure. Many insurance companies’ initial offers are lowball amounts to see if they can settle as cheaply as possible.

Engaging a Phoenix personal injury lawyer is your best option for obtaining the total value of your claim.

Exceptions to the Rule

Arizona’s statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits is generally two years, but that’s not always true. If a government entity’s negligence is involved, you only have 180 days from the date of the incident to serve a “notice of claim” before your claim is barred. If the notice of claim in either denied, or the government entity does not respond within 60 days after being served, you then have one year in which to file your lawsuit.

The Arizona Revised Statutes address certain instances when you might have longer than two years to seek legal action:

• Defendant is absent: The defendant flees or is otherwise absent from the state
• Minor plaintiff: Individuals under the age of majority (18)
• Discovery rule: When a reasonable person would not discover the injury right away

Potential Delays in the Legal Process

Arizona court schedules are always busy, pushing your court date further out. Other potential delays might harm your chances of seeking compensation:

• Gathering and examining evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Obtaining the other side’s evidence
• Negotiating with the insurance company to avoid going to court

Starting early gives you a buffer against unforeseen delays and gives your Phoenix personal injury attorney enough time to build a strong case.

What To Do Immediately After a Car Accident

Your first step after any car accident is to protect your safety and health. Even if you feel relatively fine, always see a medical practitioner. Some injuries, such as concussions, might not be evident at first but carry severe consequences if left undiagnosed or untreated.

Your other steps after a car crash should include:

• Take photos at the scene.
• Get a copy of the police report.
• Follow your medical provider’s instructions.
• Keep all medical records and bills.
• Avoid posting about the accident on social media.
• Consult our Phoenix car accident lawyer for guidance.

Contact Our Phoenix Car Accident Attorneys Today

If you’ve been in a car accident in Arizona, don’t wait. The clock is ticking, and every moment counts. At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, we focus solely on protecting the rights of the injured. We fight for every dollar to help you get back to your pre-accident life. Our Phoenix personal injury firm treats you like a family member with caring, professional service.

Talk to a personal injury attorney about your accident before it’s too late to pursue compensation. Contact the Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer today for a free consultation.

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Did you get hurt in a car crash while riding as a passenger? It’s understandable to feel confused about your legal options in a situation like yours. You don’t need to search for answers on your own. Instead of wondering, “What are my rights as a passenger in a car accident in Arizona?” get answers from an experienced car accident lawyer from Silkman Law Firm Injury and Accident Lawyer. We offer personalized, free consultations for injured people. Contact us today for yours. 

Your Rights as a Passenger in a Car Accident

Typically, passengers have the same rights as the driver after a car accident. That means you may be eligible to seek compensation from whoever caused the crash. Whether the at-fault party was the driver of the car you occupied, another motorist, or another party altogether (e.g., a government agency or defective auto parts manufacturer), you could file a personal injury claim for compensation as a passenger after a collision. But how? In Arizona, all drivers must purchase liability auto insurance. This insurance coverage should pay for injuries resulting from a car accident the driver causes.  Does passenger accident insurance exist for car accidents? Not specifically. However, if the driver of the car you were riding in caused the crash, their insurance policy should cover your bodily injury claims. If the other driver was at fault, you would file a claim with their insurance company.  The circumstances of the car accident play a large role in the avenues open to you for compensation. For example, insurance issues can be complicated in accidents involving rideshare drivers or other commercial vehicles like taxis. A skilled car accident lawyer can identify all potential sources of compensation if you suffered injuries as a passenger.   

Determining Liability in a Car Accident

When a car accident occurs, the insurance company will determine financial responsibility (liability) by conducting an investigation. A party is considered at fault if their recklessness (negligence) causes a crash. Examples of negligence include: 

• Running a red light or stop sign

• Speeding
• Following too closely
• Failing to yield the right-of-way
• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Racing

The Process of Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim

Here’s what to do if you’re injured in a car accident as a passenger: 

• Call 911 to bring police and paramedics to the accident scene. 
• Gather evidence at the crash site, such as photos, videos, witness contact information, and insurance information for all drivers involved.
• Seek medical attention for your injuries promptly if you didn’t need emergency care. 

• Provide minimal information to the insurance company about the crash. Limit your report to the accident’s date, location, and the parties involved. Do not discuss injuries or make a recorded statement without seeking legal advice. 
• Consult a car accident attorney for help determining liability and filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit. 

Factors Affecting Your Compensation

Many factors impact the amount of compensation passengers receive in auto accident claims, including:

• The severity of the injuries
• The victim’s age
• The amount of all losses, including medical bills, lost wages, lost earning capacity, etc.
• Whether fault is in dispute
• The long-term impact of the injuries 

Why Choose Silkman Law Injury & Accident Lawyer?

The legal team at Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer focuses exclusively on personal injury cases. You can count on us to have the in-depth knowledge and experience to provide exceptional, strategic legal services that stand up to the toughest challenges from the insurance company.  Contact us today for a free consultation.

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Many accidents leave more than just physical scars. Emotional injuries can be equally as debilitating as any bodily wound. If you’re struggling with this kind of invisible trauma, you might wonder whether you can hold another party responsible for your emotional distress in a personal injury lawsuit. The good news is that you may be able to sue for emotional distress if another party is responsible for the accident. However, proving that you’re entitled to compensation for emotional distress is not simple. Here’s what you should know about suing for emotional distress after an Arizona accident.

What is Emotional Distress and What Does it Look Like?

Emotional distress is the mental or psychological anguish someone experiences following a traumatic incident like a car accident. It can manifest in many ways, including appearing as acute anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia, and recurring nightmares. Many accident survivors suffering from emotional distress also experience a general decrease in their overall enjoyment of life, quality of personal relationships, and ability to maintain regular work routines. These consequences can infiltrate nearly every aspect of a person’s life and have profound implications for their future.

What is the Difference Between Physical and Emotional Distress Claims?

Physical distress claims pertain to pain from tangible injuries, such as broken bones, burns, or other visible or measurable physical harm. These claims are typically easier to prove since you can tie them directly to medical bills or therapy costs. In contrast, emotional distress claims address the intangible psychological harm an accident can inflict. Symptoms of emotional distress like anxiety and depression are harder to quantify and prove, often requiring specialized types of evidence.

Do I Need to Prove I Have a Physical Injury to Get Compensation for Emotional Distress?

It’s not strictly necessary to have a physical injury to obtain compensation for emotional distress. Nonetheless, a physical injury often strengthens the credibility of an emotional distress claim as it provides a logical link between the accident and resulting emotional trauma. Emotional distress claims primarily rely on evidence of significant psychological suffering, and demonstrating the necessary level of distress effectively without the context of a physical injury case becomes more challenging.

What Kinds of Evidence Can You Use to Prove Emotional Distress?

To prove emotional distress, a personal injury attorney can identify and present evidence demonstrating your psychological suffering. This could include therapy records, testimony from psychiatrists or counselors, journal entries tracking your mental health, or even testimony from loved ones who’ve observed changes in your behavior or mood. Direct evidence of the traumatic event, such as accident reports or eyewitness testimonies, could also serve as compelling evidence.

How Do You File a Lawsuit for Emotional Distress?

Suing for emotional distress in Arizona includes gathering proof of your distress, preparing a solid case demonstrating your suffering to the insurance company or court, and meeting various legal deadlines. At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, we can shoulder this burden for you. We offer compassionate legal assistance as we pursue the meaningful results you deserve.

Contact an Emotional Distress Lawsuit Attorney in Arizona

Can you sue for emotional distress in Arizona? The best way to learn your options is to ask an experienced attorney. Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer can help. Start your journey toward emotional and financial recovery today. Contact us now for a free consultation.

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Just like other road users, motorcyclists must follow the rules of the road or face potential legal consequences. One rule that clients frequently ask about is Arizona’s lane-splitting law. Understanding the legality of lane splitting is important to avoid legal trouble when cruising on Arizona roads. The legal team at the Silkman Law Firm can clear up any doubts you may have in a free, no-obligation consultation. Read on to learn more about lane splitting in Arizona.

Arizona Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle wrecks account for a small percentage of all auto accidents in Arizona. However, as most motorcyclists know, their near-complete exposure to the full force of a collision leaves riders extremely vulnerable to catastrophic injuries when accidents do occur. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), motorcycle accidents accounted for 2,317 crashes statewide in one recent year alone. These crashes resulted in 160 fatalities and 1,921 reported injuries.

What is Lane Splitting?

Lane splitting occurs when motorcyclists squeeze in between the lanes of stopped or slowed traffic. The maneuver is also sometimes referred to as “white lining” or “stripe riding.” In general, the purpose of lane splitting is to save time and bypass congested traffic. Proponents of lane splitting also argue that it allows vulnerable motorcyclists to move away from hazardous road conditions more quickly.

Is Lane Splitting Legal?

No. Under current Arizona law, lane splitting is prohibited in the state. In fact, of all the fifty states, only California expressly condones lane splitting in its traffic laws. Though some lawmakers have proposed changing this prohibition in recent years, it remains in place. That said, the governing statute makes clear that motorcyclists may ride “two abreast in a single lane.”

Lane Filtering vs. Lane Splitting

While lane splitting is still illegal in Arizona, lane filtering is not. Lane filtering involves riding a motorcycle between stopped vehicles to the front of the line, according to the American Motorcyclist Association. If a street has at least two adjacent lanes in the same direction of travel and a speed limit of 45 mph or lower, a motorcyclist can move between stopped vehicles up to the entrance of an intersection under Arizona law.

What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Arizona?

Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be very stressful. Involved riders are often left with debilitating injuries and mounting medical bills. In many cases, motorcycle accidents are fatal. Take the following steps if you are involved in a motorcycle wreck:

1. Safety First – Your safety should be your top priority. If you can, move away from the scene of the accident to avoid further harm.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Regardless of whether you think you have been seriously hurt, it is important to consult with a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
3. Contact Law Enforcement – It is also important to report the accident to the police. The responding officers will create an accident report which can turn into significant evidence in any potential insurance or legal disputes.
4. Gather Information – If possible, collect as much information as you can from the scene. This includes the other driver’s information (name, contact information, and insurance details), photos of the scene and your injuries, and contact information of any witnesses.
5. Document Everything – Keep a record of all your medical treatments, prescriptions, and any other expenses related to the accident. Also, start a journal detailing how your injuries impact your day-to-day life.
6. Do Not Discuss the Accident Publicly – Avoid discussing the accident details publicly or on social media platforms. Anything you say could potentially be used against you later on.
7. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney – Hire a personal injury attorney, particularly one who specializes in motorcycle accidents. They can make sure you know your rights and help you navigate the complex legal process of securing compensation.

Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer Is Here to Help

Motorcycle accidents tend to result in very serious and sometimes fatal injuries. The legal team at Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer is dedicated to helping injury victims throughout Arizona secure the full and fair compensation they deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can help you in a free consultation.  

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Many states and cities have laws against crossing streets outside of designated crosswalks, while traffic controls instruct pedestrians to wait before crossing, or in situations where they should yield to oncoming traffic. This kind of behavior is colloquially known as “jaywalking.” And though Arizona law does not specifically make use of this term, it does prohibit pedestrians from crossing the street in certain scenarios in which it is deemed unsafe to do so. If you are facing legal trouble involving jaywalking, the Silkman Law Firm is standing by to help. Call us at (606) 560-5178 or reach out to us online to schedule your free, confidential consultation with an experienced member of our team. Read on for a brief introduction to jaywalking regulations in Arizona.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 7,000 pedestrians died in motor vehicle crashes nationwide in one recent year. This translates to approximately one pedestrian death every 75 minutes. The CDC further reports an estimated 104,000 emergency department visits to treat non-fatal pedestrian injuries in that same year. Though not all of these incidents involved jaywalking, pedestrians should nonetheless take care to cross the street when and where it is safe to do so.

Jaywalking Laws in Arizona

Again, the state code does not specifically use the term “jaywalking.” However, Arizona law does require that pedestrians follow certain rules when crossing the road. The governing statute provides as follows:

• A pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles on the roadway.
• A pedestrian crossing a roadway at a point where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing has been provided shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles on the roadway.
• Between adjacent intersections at which traffic control signals are in operation, pedestrians shall not cross at any place except in a marked crosswalk.

Can I File a Pedestrian Accident Claim If I Was Jaywalking?

Absolutely. If a pedestrian is injured in an auto accident, they can certainly file a claim seeking compensation from the at-fault party. However, their right to compensation may be impacted depending on how much the pedestrian contributed to the cause of the accident. Many states allow injury victims to sue for compensation only if they were less than 50 percent responsible for the underlying accident. A small minority of states also bar would-be plaintiffs from pursuing compensation if they contributed even slightly. Fortunately, Arizona falls into neither camp. Instead, pedestrians in the state are allowed to pursue compensation even if they are 99 percent responsible for the underlying cause of an accident. However, their total compensation will be reduced proportionately to their degree of fault. For example, let’s say that your injuries in a pedestrian accident are worth $100,000. However, the jury in your case finds that you were 25 percent responsible. In this scenario, your damages would be reduced proportionately to $75,000. If you believe you may be partially at fault for your pedestrian accident, the best way to reduce or eliminate the risk of losing money in your claim is by working with an experienced jaywalking accident attorney.

Consult With Our Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Jaywalking accidents can be particularly devastating because, unlike riders in an enclosed vehicle, pedestrians have nothing to shield them from the full impact of an oncoming vehicle. If you have been injured in this kind of accident, do not wait to consult with an attorney. The Silkman Law Firm is standing by to make sure you know your rights and help you down the path toward full and fair compensation. Call us at (606) 560-5178 or reach out to us online to schedule your free, confidential consultation.

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A truck driver was killed in an accident on I-10 near Tucson recently when his tractor-trailer overturned. In the rollover, nitric acid spilled onto the roadway and released red and yellow vapor into the air. Authorities identified the victim as Ricky Immel, 54. The wreck triggered the evacuation and shelter-in-place orders due to the hazardous nitric acid. Authorities closed the freeway. They also ordered residents within a half-mile of the crash to leave their homes and those within one mile to shelter in place. The deadly truck accident occurred in mid-February. Winter weather conditions delayed cleanup efforts for two days. State troopers say they tested the air near the site soon after the wreck and determined it was free of nitric acid.

Common Injuries After a Truck Accident Involving Hazardous Materials

Thankfully, no one else appears to have been injured by the recent HAZMAT truck accident in Tucson. Traffic wrecks involving large semis carrying hazardous loads have the potential to cause devastating truck crash injuries, such as:

• Burns from exposure to caustic, reactive, or flammable chemicals
• Respiratory problems from inhalation of toxic fumes
• Traumatic injuries from the impact with the truck itself
• Physical injuries from contact with flying debris or shattered glass
• Infections and diseases, depending on the nature of the hazardous cargo

Long-Term Consequences After an Accident with HAZMAT

The long-term consequences of a HAZMAT truck accident vary depending on the severity of the crash, the types of hazardous materials involved, and a victim’s exposure to the materials. Possible long-term health consequences include:

• Increased risk of certain cancers and other diseases
• Chronic respiratory problems like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Neurological problems like chronic headaches, seizures, and neuropathy
• Reproductive issues like infertility and a higher risk of birth defects or miscarriage
• Immune system damage, increasing the risk of infections and diseases
• Psychological injuries such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Compensation for HAZMAT Truck Accident Injuries

If the truck driver, the trucking company, or someone else caused the accident, they could owe you compensation for the harm you suffered. A successful insurance claim or lawsuit against the liable parties could provide you with money for:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost income
• Reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Lower quality of life
• Property damage

Discuss your case with a HAZMAT truck accident lawyer today to learn more about your options.

Contact Our Arizona Semi-Truck Accident Attorneys for Help

Were you or a loved one hurt in a HAZMAT truck accident in Arizona? Then don’t wait to reach out to Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer. You deserve full compensation for the injuries, expenses, and other losses you suffered – and you may have several options for pursuing it. Our team can identify all possible sources of recovery, investigate the circumstances of the truck accident, and demand the money you need to be made whole. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options in a free initial case review with our Arizona truck accident attorneys.

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