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Understanding Arizona’s Auto Insurance Laws

Laura Delgado

October 11, 2023

Why Should You Know Arizona Traffic and Insurance Regulations?

To drive safely and protect your rights, you need a clear grasp of the state’s rules. If you have a car accident, knowing Arizona’s traffic and insurance laws can help you make an informed claim.

What Are Arizona’s Red Light Laws?

Intersections often see many collisions. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (AZDOT), nearly 5,000 drivers were cited for ignoring traffic signals, causing accidents in a recent year. Key statutes include:

1. ARS Section 28-644: Prohibits running red lights or stop signs unless directed by an officer.
2. ARS Section 28-645: Requires cars to stop at a steady red light before proceeding.
3. Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks (marked or unmarked) and can turn right on red only when safe.
4. Drivers can turn left onto a one-way road on red if no sign forbids it, but they must yield to traffic and pedestrians.

What Are the Minimum Insurance Requirements in Arizona?

The minimum insurance requirements in Arizona as enforced by Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions are as follows:

1. $25,000 for one individual’s bodily injury or death.
2. $50,000 total for two or more individuals’ injuries or deaths.
3. $15,000 property damage per accident.

Arizona also requires insurers to offer uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which helps if you’re hit by a driver without enough insurance. Although not mandatory, this coverage protects against hit-and-run accidents or underinsured drivers.

What Are the Penalties for Driving Without Insurance?

The penalties for driving without insurance, Under ARS Section 28-4185, are:

1. First offense: $500 fine and a three-month license suspension.
2. Second offense within three years: $750 fine and a six-month suspension.
3. Third offense within three years: $1,000 fine and a one-year suspension.

How Do You Report an Arizona Car Accident?

To report and Arizona car accident, Arizona law requires you to stop if an accident involves injury, death, or property damage. Then:

1. Notify law enforcement and request medical help.
2. Provide your name, address, and vehicle registration to the other driver.
3. Share your driver’s license if asked.
4. Report the accident to your insurance carrier within a few days.

Police must file a report for accidents resulting in injury or property damage exceeding $2,000, which becomes key evidence for insurance and legal proceedings.

Is Arizona a No-Fault State?

No. Arizona follows an at-fault system. You may sue the driver who caused the accident, but you must prove negligence with:

1. Police reports
2. Photos or videos of the crash site
3. Eyewitness statements
4. Expert analyses
5. Medical records
6. Forensic evidence

Arizona applies “pure comparative negligence.” Even if you share some blame, you can recover damages. For instance, if you are 10% at fault, you receive 90% of the total award.