Mesa Car Accident Attorneys

Experienced Legal Representation with Proven Results

The car accident lawyers at Skousen, Gulbrandsen & Patience, PLC have been a trusted legal resource in Mesa for over 60 years. We’ve secured millions in compensation for victims of car accidents, ensuring they recover the damages they’re entitled to while focusing on their healing. Our team is committed to treating every case with care, precision, and dedication, acting as your advocate in what can often feel like a challenging legal process. You shouldn’t have to suffer due to someone else’s negligence. From the moment you contact us, we work tirelessly to protect your rights. We handle complex insurance claims, fight back against lowball settlement offers, and stand ready to seek justice through litigation when necessary. With us in your corner, you can rest assured that we’ll prioritize your well-being while seeking maximum compensation for your case.

Steps to Take Following a Car Accident in Mesa

Car accidents can be chaotic, but taking the right steps afterward is crucial for your health, legal standing, and financial recovery.
  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries don’t feel serious, see a healthcare professional right away. Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not display symptoms until hours or days later. Medical documentation will also serve as vital evidence in your claim.
  2. Document the Scene: If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and notable circumstances like road hazards. Exchange contact and insurance details with all parties involved and collect contact information from any witnesses.
  3. File a Police Report: Contact law enforcement promptly. An official police report can provide crucial evidence, including details about fault or citations issued to the at-fault driver.
  4. Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters Alone: Insurance adjusters may try to get you to settle quickly for less than you deserve. Do not admit fault or provide detailed statements without consulting an attorney who understands the tactics insurers may use against you.
  5. Contact a Car Accident Attorney: Engaging an experienced attorney early allows them to preserve evidence, analyze your case, and deal with insurers on your behalf. This gives you a stronger chance at fair and adequate compensation.

Arizona Car Accident Laws and Your Rights

Understanding Arizona's car accident laws is essential for securing the compensation you deserve.

Arizona’s Fault-Based Insurance System

Unlike no-fault states, Arizona operates under a fault-based insurance system. This means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages. You can seek compensation through their insurance, your own insurance if you have coverage, or by filing a lawsuit.

Comparative Negligence in Arizona

Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you’re partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, you’ll receive 80% of the compensation awarded.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims

Arizona sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline could result in forfeiture of your right to compensation.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Though not mandatory, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is highly recommended in Arizona. This coverage can protect you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance to cover your damages.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Car Accident in Mesa?

Determining liability is a critical step in pursuing compensation. One or more of the following parties may be held accountable for your accident, depending on the circumstances.
  • At-Fault Drivers: The driver who caused the accident due to negligence, such as distracted driving, speeding, or running a red light, is typically held liable for damages.
  • Vehicle Manufacturers: If a manufacturing defect, such as faulty brakes or airbags, contributed to the accident, the car manufacturer may be held responsible under product liability laws.
  • Governments or Contractors: When poorly maintained roads, defective traffic signals, or unsafe construction zones cause an accident, the relevant government agency or contractor may bear liability.
  • Employers of Commercial Drivers: If the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle for work, their employer could also be sued for damages.

What are the Common Causes of Car Accidents in Mesa?

Car accidents are often the result of preventable human error, with the following among the most frequent causes in Arizona.
  • Distracted Driving (e.g., texting, eating, or adjusting navigation systems).
  • Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Speeding, which limits reaction time and increases collision severity.
  • Reckless Driving, including unsafe lane changes or tailgating.
  • Failure to Follow Traffic Laws, such as running stop signs or red lights.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Car Accident?

Victims of car accidents in Mesa may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages, including the following. Economic Damages:
  • Medical expenses (past and future).
  • Property damage, including vehicle repair or replacement.
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
  • Out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.
Non-Economic Damages:
  • Pain and suffering.
  • Emotional distress.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Loss of consortium for a spouse.
Your attorney will calculate these damages to ensure you pursue the maximum compensation available, using methods such as examining past bills and applying a multiplier to account for intangible losses.

Why Hiring an Experienced Attorney Matters

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident on your own can be overwhelming—between insurance company negotiations, gathering evidence, and legal filings, there’s a lot at stake. An attorney on your side makes all the difference.

Why Choose Skousen, Gulbrandsen & Patience, PLC?

From initial consultations to taking cases to trial if necessary, we are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and ensuring you get the justice you deserve.
  • Decades of Experience. Over 60 years serving the Mesa community.
  • Proven Results. Millions recovered for those injured in vehicular accidents.
  • No Upfront Fees. You only pay if we win your case.
  • Personalized Attention. We treat your case like it’s our only case.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Mesa, don’t wait. Contact Skousen, Gulbrandsen & Patience, PLC today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you rebuild and reclaim your life after an accident.
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Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (480) 833-8800.


414 East Southern Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85204
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The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

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