Losing a loved one in a sudden car crash or motor vehicle accident is one of the most painful experiences anyone can face. Beyond grief, families may face medical bills, funeral expenses, and emotional challenges after a fatal motor‑vehicle accident.
In such devastating circumstances, working with a lawyer experienced in fatal accident and wrongful death matters in Phoenix may help families seek accountability and compensation available under Arizona law.
At Harris Injury Law, our legal team understands both the emotional and financial toll of these tragedies. Led by attorney Jason A. Harris, our legal team provides representation to help families understand their options and pursue claims when a wrongful death occurs due to another’s negligence.
Understanding Wrongful Death Under Arizona Law
A wrongful death claim arises when a person’s life is taken due to another party’s wrongful act, neglect, or misconduct. Under Arizona’s accident law, this may include fatalities resulting from car accidents, truck accidents, or other auto collisions caused by driver error, unsafe conditions, or reckless behavior.
According to Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-542, families generally have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Acting quickly ensures crucial evidence, such as accident scene photos, police reports, and insurance company communications, is preserved for your case.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Arizona?
Arizona law limits who may bring a wrongful death claim. Eligible parties typically include:
- The surviving spouse of the deceased
- Surviving children
- Surviving parents or guardians
- The personal representative of the estate
These individuals can file against the at-fault party, which may be another driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or a negligent corporation, depending on the cause of the crash.
Our Phoenix personal injury attorneys work closely with grieving families to guide them through the filing process while providing compassionate, transparent support.
Common Causes of Fatal Accidents in Phoenix
Tragic crashes in Phoenix and Maricopa County often involve preventable human errors. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reports that thousands of car accidents in the region result in serious injuries or fatalities each year.
The most common causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, or adjusting navigation systems)
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Drowsy or fatigued driving
- Failure to yield or obey traffic signals
- Mechanical failure or unsafe vehicle maintenance
Each of these factors can result in a preventable car accident that devastates families. When negligence leads to death, a Phoenix car accident lawyer can help ensure the responsible parties are held accountable.
The Role of a Fatal Accident Lawyer
An attorney experienced in wrongful death and wrongful‑death claims can provide legal representation, explanation of the process, and handle communications during a difficult time.
An experienced auto accident attorney or injury lawyer will:
- Investigate the accident scene and gather key evidence
- Review police reports, witness statements, and medical records
- Identify the at-fault party and all potential insurance companies involved
- Negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company and your own insurance company
- File a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit on your behalf
- Work toward a fair settlement or pursue litigation if necessary
The goal is to help families recover compensation for their losses, while handling the legal complexities with care and professionalism.
Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Cases
Families pursuing a wrongful death claim in Phoenix may be entitled to various forms of financial compensation, depending on the circumstances of the accident. These damages typically include:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Property damage to the vehicle or personal belongings
- Lost wages and the loss of future income
Non-Economic Damages
- Emotional anguish and emotional distress
- Loss of companionship, affection, and guidance
- Loss of household services the loved one provided
In some cases, punitive damages may also apply when the death results from extreme recklessness or intentional wrongdoing.
Our Phoenix personal‑injury lawyers work to document economic and non‑economic losses so your family may seek compensation under Arizona law.
How Harris Injury Law Supports Families After Fatal Accidents
At Harris Injury Law, we recognize that every personal injury case involving a fatality carries immense emotional weight. Our law firm takes a hands-on, client-centered approach designed to protect families while pursuing justice.
Compassionate Advocacy
We handle each case with empathy, ensuring your family’s well-being remains at the forefront. You’ll have access to attorney Jason Harris and our team, who are committed to responsive communication throughout your case.
Proven Experience in Complex Cases
Our team of Phoenix car accident attorneys and injury lawyers has experience handling both fatal car accident claims and wrongful death lawsuits. Whether your case involves a distracted driver, a negligent employer, or defective auto parts, we build a strong foundation for recovery.
Transparent and Accessible Representation
We strive to provide transparent communication and respect during a difficult time. We keep communication clear and open, explaining timelines, potential outcomes, and legal fees upfront.
Contingency Fee Structure
We only charge a legal fee if we obtain compensation for you. Some case-related expenses may still apply, and we’ll provide those details in a clear written agreement.
The Importance of Timely Action
Under the Arizona car accident statute, the time to file a wrongful death lawsuit is limited to two years. Delays can jeopardize evidence and reduce the strength of your claim.
Contacting a Phoenix personal injury lawyer promptly allows your legal team to secure key evidence, interview witnesses, and preserve records from auto insurance companies or law enforcement.
If you wait too long, vital details, like accident scene data or witness memories, can fade, affecting your ability to seek compensation for your loss.
The Human Cost of Fatal Car Accidents
Every statistic represents a person, a parent, child, or spouse, whose life was cut short. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 43,000 people died in traffic crashes nationwide in 2022, marking one of the highest totals in recent years.
In Arizona, many car accident cases resulting in death occur along heavily traveled corridors such as I-10, U.S. 60, and Loop 202. Behind every fatality are grieving car accident victims’ families facing unimaginable loss.
Our firm’s role is to help these families find both justice and stability as they navigate an uncertain future.
How Harris Injury Law Investigates a Fatal Accident Case
Our process ensures thorough preparation and compassionate representation from the start.
- Scene Investigation: We gather data from the accident scene, skid marks, traffic cameras, and reconstruction experts.
- Medical Review: We analyze hospital records and autopsy reports to establish causation between the crash and fatal injuries.
- Insurance Communication: We manage correspondence with insurance adjusters and auto insurance companies to protect your rights.
- Filing and Negotiation: We file your accident claim and handle negotiations with the driver’s insurance company.
- Litigation if Needed: If settlement efforts fail, we pursue a personal injury lawsuit to ensure accountability.
Throughout the process, our injury attorneys remain focused on transparency and compassion.
Why Compassion Matters in Legal Representation
Not every firm approaches wrongful death cases with empathy. At Harris Injury Law, we believe compassion is a professional responsibility.
Our clients are not just “cases.” They’re families who have suffered injuries and loss, who deserve to be heard and supported. From your first free case evaluation to the resolution of your claim, we’re here to listen, guide, and help you move forward.
The Road to Closure and Accountability
While no legal outcome can undo tragedy, achieving accountability can bring a sense of closure and justice. When you work with an experienced car accident attorney or auto accident lawyer, your family gains a strong advocate who stands beside you through every step.
Our goal is to help you understand your rights, evaluate your options, and, if appropriate, pursue claims under Arizona law.
Contact Harris Injury Law Today
If your family has suffered injuries or the loss of a loved one due to a fatal car accident, know that compassionate help is available.
Harris Injury Law is a trusted injury law firm serving Phoenix and Maricopa County. We offer:
- Free, private consultations are available to discuss your case. Any information you share will be treated confidentially in accordance with ethical duties.
- Direct access to an experienced auto accident attorney
- Transparent communication and compassionate service
- A contingency fee structure, no payment unless we win
If your family has suffered the loss of a loved one in a fatal accident in Phoenix, call Harris Injury Law at (480) 800-HURT to speak with a compassionate attorney today.
