Car accidents in Phoenix happen more often than many people realize. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender on Camelback Road or a high-speed collision on the I-10, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be overwhelming. After the dust settles, you’re left with more questions than answers. How will I pay these medical bills? What if I can’t return to work? Do I need a lawyer?
At Torgenson Law, we understand what you’re going through. We’ve worked with countless Arizonans who were blindsided by accidents that changed everything. And we’ve built our firm on the belief that when your recovery is at stake, it’s personal. You deserve more than legal advice—you deserve a team that fights for you like family.
Choosing a personal injury law firm is about more than who has the biggest billboard or the flashiest ad. At Torgenson Law, we’re not chasing volume—we’re focused on people. That starts with our foundation and carries through every case we take.
John Torgenson didn’t grow up in a legal dynasty. He was raised in a working-class family where hard work, grit, and loyalty weren’t buzzwords—they were non-negotiables. That upbringing shaped his mission: to fight for the underdog with every tool in the legal arsenal.
After graduating from Notre Dame Law School, John could’ve taken a cushy corporate job. Instead, he built a firm that blends academic excellence with lived experience. That blend is what allows us to relate to everyday Arizonans while standing toe-to-toe with insurance giants.
We don’t hand off your case to junior staff. Our attorneys work directly with you, offering open communication, honest answers, and real support. When we say we take your recovery personally, we mean it. Our team prepares every case like it’s going to trial, even if it settles—because that level of readiness makes all the difference.
From accident victims we’ve visited in hospital rooms to families we’ve helped rebuild their lives, our relationships run deep. We don’t forget your name once the check clears. When you hire us, you become part of the Torgenson Law family.
Phoenix roadways are fast-moving and often congested. Combine that with distracted drivers, aggressive behavior, and sudden weather events, and it’s no surprise that serious crashes happen every day. Each accident has its own story, but certain patterns show up again and again—especially across the Valley’s busiest intersections and highways.
Understanding what causes these collisions isn’t just about prevention—it’s also an important part of proving negligence in your injury claim. At Torgenson Law, we investigate every detail to hold the right party accountable. Here are the most common causes we see.
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car crashes in Phoenix. Whether it’s texting, eating, using GPS, or adjusting the radio, even a few seconds of inattention can have devastating consequences.
Smartphones are the biggest culprit. Arizona bans texting while driving, but enforcement remains limited—and many drivers still sneak a glance while behind the wheel. A vehicle going 45 mph travels the length of a basketball court in just a few seconds. That’s all it takes to miss a stopped car, a red light, or a pedestrian crossing the street.
Speed limits are often treated as suggestions by Phoenix drivers. On highways like I-10, Loop 101, and US 60, speeding is the norm. But higher speeds mean less time to react—and more force upon impact.
Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, cutting off other drivers, and weaving through traffic create a dangerous environment for everyone. These drivers leave little room for error, and one wrong move can cause a multi-vehicle pileup.
Despite increased public awareness and legal crackdowns, impaired driving continues to injure and kill people across Phoenix. Alcohol and drugs affect coordination, reaction time, and judgment. In many cases, impaired drivers speed, swerve, or fail to stop altogether.
Even one drink can impair your ability to drive safely. And when someone else’s reckless decision puts you in the hospital, they need to be held accountable. We pursue every avenue to prove impairment and seek full damages.
Although Phoenix enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, weather still plays a role in local crashes. During monsoon season, sudden downpours can cause flash floods, reduce visibility, and leave roads slick and dangerous.
Many drivers don’t adjust their behavior when weather hits. They fail to slow down, turn on headlights, or increase following distance—all of which increase the risk of accidents. Poorly maintained roads or construction zones can make things even worse.
Intersections are among the most dangerous places on the road, especially in high-traffic areas like Camelback Road, Bell Road, and 19th Avenue. Drivers who speed up to beat a yellow light or fail to yield at a left turn are often responsible for side-impact collisions—some of the most severe types of crashes.
Phoenix has invested in red-light cameras to reduce violations, but not every intersection is covered. When someone blasts through a light or fails to stop at a stop sign, it’s more than reckless—it’s life-threatening.
Not every dangerous driver is doing something illegal. Sometimes, lack of skill or experience plays a major role. New drivers may panic under pressure, misjudge speed, or fail to check blind spots. Others may be behind the wheel without ever having passed a driving test.
When untrained or unqualified drivers cause accidents, they (and in some cases their guardians or employers) may be held liable.
Not all crashes are caused by driver behavior. Some stem from malfunctioning brakes, tire blowouts, steering issues, or faulty airbags. If a defective vehicle part caused or worsened the accident, the manufacturer or repair shop could be partially responsible.
These cases require a deep investigation and often involve expert witnesses. We don’t shy away from complex claims—our job is to uncover the full truth.
Accidents may feel like random events, but they almost always come back to preventable behavior. If you were injured in a crash caused by any of these factors, you don’t have to carry the burden alone. Torgenson Law is ready to investigate what happened, stand up to the insurance companies, and fight for the recovery you need.
No two crashes are the same, and neither are the injuries they cause. Some heal with time. Others lead to permanent disability or lifelong challenges. At Torgenson Law, we’ve seen how deeply injuries from car accidents can affect every part of a person’s life—from their ability to work and care for their families, to their emotional well-being and sense of independence.
While the specifics of every case are different, the following types of injuries are among the most common we encounter—and they all deserve full consideration when building your claim.
Traumatic brain injuries range from concussions to more severe forms of brain trauma that impact memory, motor function, speech, and cognitive processing. Even a mild TBI can lead to persistent headaches, confusion, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. More serious TBIs can result in long-term disability and require ongoing therapy, accommodations at work, or assisted living support. We work with medical professionals to fully document the short- and long-term consequences of brain injuries.
Damage to the spine can be life-altering. Some victims suffer herniated discs or nerve compression that causes pain, tingling, or weakness. Others face partial or complete paralysis and need extensive rehabilitation, in-home care, and home modifications. These injuries not only impact your mobility, but also your independence and quality of life. We fight to recover compensation that accounts for today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges.
Auto collisions often involve high-impact forces that break bones in the arms, legs, ribs, hips, and face. Some fractures are clean and heal with time, while others require surgery, pins, plates, or extended time in a cast. Recovery can take months, and complications like chronic pain or limited range of motion may follow. These setbacks affect your ability to work, care for children, and enjoy basic activities.
Whiplash is one of the most commonly dismissed but painful injuries following a car crash. Ligament sprains, tendon strains, and muscle tears can be incredibly disruptive. Soft tissue injuries don’t always show up on X-rays, which makes them harder to “prove”—but their impact is very real. We help ensure these injuries are thoroughly documented and taken seriously by insurance companies.
Blunt force trauma from a crash can damage internal organs, rupture blood vessels, or cause internal bleeding. These injuries may not show symptoms immediately, but they can be life-threatening if left untreated. Emergency care, surgery, and close monitoring are often required, and recovery can be long and painful. We make sure these injuries are properly valued in your claim.
Surviving a car accident doesn’t mean the trauma ends when the scene clears. Many people experience ongoing emotional and psychological distress—especially if the crash involved serious injury or death. Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) include nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and emotional numbness. These struggles are real, and they deserve recognition and compensation.
At Torgenson Law, we fight to ensure that every type of damage—physical, emotional, and financial—is accounted for in your claim. Because when your recovery matters, we take it personally.
Car accidents are disorienting, especially when they happen suddenly in a high-traffic city like Phoenix. The moments immediately following a crash can shape both your recovery and your legal case. Taking the right steps—right away—helps protect your health and your right to compensation.
If you’re able, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further danger. Your safety comes first. Turn on your hazard lights, and help others get to safety if it’s safe for you to do so. In more serious collisions, stay put and wait for emergency responders.
Even if the crash seems minor, always call the police. An official report will document the scene and provide an unbiased third-party account of what happened. Be honest and factual with the officer, but don’t speculate or assign blame. This report will become key evidence in your injury claim.
Get the other driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and license plate number. If there are witnesses nearby, ask for their names and phone numbers. Use your phone to take pictures of the vehicles, skid marks, street signs, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These photos can be crucial later.
Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted as an admission of guilt. Stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver, police, and anyone else at the scene. Don’t speculate about how the accident happened—just describe what you saw and experienced.
Before speaking to an insurance adjuster or accepting any settlement offer, reach out to an experienced car accident lawyer. At Torgenson Law, we’ll help you understand your rights and begin preserving evidence immediately. Your focus should be on healing. Let us handle the rest.
After a crash, you may feel okay—especially if adrenaline is masking pain. But many injuries don’t present symptoms right away. That’s why medical attention is non-negotiable, even for seemingly minor accidents.
Traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, and soft tissue damage often show up hours—or even days—after a collision. A medical exam can catch injuries early, potentially preventing more serious complications. Don’t wait until you’re in pain. Get checked out immediately.
When you pursue a personal injury claim, your medical records serve as one of the most powerful tools in proving your injuries. They link your condition to the accident, create a paper trail, and support your case for compensation. Without timely documentation, insurers may argue your injuries aren’t serious—or weren’t caused by the crash at all.
Once you’ve seen a doctor, follow their advice closely. Attend follow-up appointments, take medications as prescribed, and keep records of every visit. Gaps in treatment or failing to follow recommendations can weaken your claim and allow insurers to downplay your recovery needs.
If you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Our experienced attorneys are available 24/7 to provide a free consultation and help you pursue the compensation you need.
In Arizona, liability isn’t always clear-cut. While one party may be obviously at fault, other factors—like shared responsibility or multiple parties involved—can complicate things. Understanding who is legally responsible is a key step in pursuing compensation.
Arizona uses a “fault” system, meaning the person who caused the accident is responsible for covering the damages. This includes compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Liability can be based on driver negligence, vehicle defects, or unsafe road conditions.
Arizona also follows a pure comparative negligence rule. That means even if you’re partially at fault, you can still recover damages. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible for the crash, your total compensation would be reduced by that percentage. It’s critical to have a lawyer who can minimize your share of fault.
Sometimes, more than one party may be held accountable. For instance, if a rideshare driver caused your accident while on duty, the rideshare company’s insurance policy might apply. Similarly, if a commercial vehicle was involved, both the driver and their employer could be liable. We investigate every angle to identify all potential sources of compensation.
To hold someone liable for your injuries, you need to show that their actions—or inaction—caused the crash. That’s the basis of negligence.
Every driver has a duty to operate their vehicle safely and responsibly. When a driver speeds, texts behind the wheel, or runs a red light, they breach that duty. Proving this breach is the first step in a negligence claim.
Next, you must link the breach of duty directly to your injuries. This means showing that the accident wouldn’t have happened if the other party had acted responsibly. Finally, we must demonstrate that you suffered damages—medical expenses, missed work, pain, and emotional hardship—as a result.
At Torgenson Law, we collect and analyze all available evidence to build a strong case. This includes:
We leave no detail unchecked in proving negligence. From reconstructing the accident scene to consulting with medical and engineering experts, we go far beyond the surface. Our team is experienced in uncovering the root causes of collisions, challenging incomplete reports, and exposing inconsistencies in opposing narratives. Every document, every witness, and every piece of digital evidence matters—and we know how to use it to strengthen your claim.
The strength of your case often determines how seriously the insurance company takes your demand. That’s why meticulous case-building is so important. Once we’ve established who was at fault and how you were harmed, we move to the next stage: dealing with the insurance company—and holding them accountable for what you’re owed.
Insurance companies may sound cooperative at first—but don’t be fooled. Their primary goal is to pay out as little as possible, and they’ll use every tool at their disposal to minimize your claim.
Insurance adjusters are trained to spot opportunities to reduce liability. They may:
Be cautious about what you say to an insurer—even a casual conversation can be used against you. Never agree to a recorded statement without legal counsel. And remember: quick settlement offers almost always undervalue the true cost of your injuries.
Dealing with insurers on your own leaves you vulnerable. They have legal teams working to protect their bottom line. You deserve the same. At Torgenson Law, we handle all negotiations, communications, and legal filings so you can focus on healing. We know their playbook—and we’re not afraid to push back.
It’s a scenario no one wants to face: you’ve been seriously hurt in a car accident, only to find out the other driver doesn’t have insurance—or doesn’t have nearly enough to cover your losses.
Unfortunately, this situation is more common than you might expect. Arizona law requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage, but not everyone complies. And even when they do, the state’s minimums often fall far short of what’s needed to cover serious injuries.
At Torgenson Law, we understand how frustrating and frightening this situation can be. But don’t lose hope. There are still ways to pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
If you’ve been hit by someone with little or no insurance, your own policy might be the key to your recovery. Most insurance companies offer uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. While not required by Arizona law, many people include this protection in their auto policies without realizing it.
UM coverage helps when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all. UIM kicks in when the other driver has insurance, but it’s not enough to cover your damages. These types of coverage can pay for:
Filing a UM/UIM claim doesn’t raise your premiums—it’s exactly what this coverage is for. But even though you’re dealing with your own insurer, don’t expect them to act in your best interest. They’ll still try to minimize the payout. That’s why having legal representation matters just as much in these claims as it does in a traditional liability case.
In some cases, there may be additional sources of compensation beyond insurance policies. If the driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer may share liability. If a defective vehicle part contributed to the crash, the manufacturer might be held accountable through a product liability claim. Or if a poorly maintained roadway played a role, a government entity could be named in the suit.
We explore every possible angle to find compensation. You shouldn’t be left paying the price for someone else’s lack of responsibility.
After a serious car accident, the financial and emotional consequences can be overwhelming. From the moment your vehicle is damaged to the weeks, months, or even years of physical recovery, every part of your life can be affected. That’s why Arizona law gives injury victims the right to pursue comprehensive compensation—not just for what you’ve already lost, but for what you’ll need in the future to rebuild your life. At Torgenson Law, we fight to make sure every form of damage is accounted for and that nothing is left on the table.
Compensation in a personal injury claim generally falls into three categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and—under limited circumstances—punitive damages. Below is a detailed breakdown of what may be available to you.
Economic damages refer to the tangible financial losses you’ve experienced because of your accident. These are quantifiable and supported by records like bills, receipts, pay stubs, and estimates.
Medical costs are often the largest and most immediate concern for crash victims. These can include:
Even if you have insurance, out-of-pocket costs can be steep. And if your injuries require ongoing care, we’ll work with medical professionals to project your future treatment needs and include them in your claim.
If your injuries keep you from working—temporarily or permanently—you can seek compensation for lost wages. This includes missed paychecks, used sick time, or vacation time taken during your recovery.
In cases of more serious injuries that affect your long-term ability to earn a living, we’ll also pursue damages for loss of earning capacity. We collaborate with economic experts to quantify what your lost future income means over time.
Most car accident victims focus on the damage to their vehicle, but your claim can also include compensation for personal items inside the vehicle that were damaged or destroyed. This might include electronics, eyeglasses, car seats, medical equipment, and other valuables. We make sure every dollar you’ve lost is documented and recovered.
These damages address the human side of your suffering—the pain, emotional distress, and life disruption that doesn’t show up on a receipt but still takes a heavy toll. Non-economic damages are just as important as financial losses and often make up the largest part of a claim.
This refers to the physical pain and discomfort you’ve endured because of your injuries. It includes:
The more severe and long-lasting the injury, the greater your compensation for pain and suffering is likely to be.
The trauma of an accident doesn’t always fade when the bruises do. Many crash victims experience:
These effects can be debilitating. We often work with therapists or mental health professionals to document how a crash has affected our clients emotionally and psychologically.
When injuries prevent you from enjoying life’s pleasures—whether that’s playing sports, gardening, walking your dog, or simply picking up your child—it’s more than an inconvenience. It’s a loss that deserves to be recognized and compensated.
In some cases, a spouse may be entitled to compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy that result from a serious injury. This category of damages acknowledges the effect your injuries may have on your closest relationships.
Punitive damages are rare but powerful. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which aim to make the victim whole, punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer for especially reckless or malicious conduct and deter others from similar actions.
In Arizona, punitive damages are only available if the at-fault party’s actions went beyond negligence. They must have acted with an “evil mind”—meaning they either intended to harm or consciously disregarded a known risk with outrageous indifference. This often applies to cases involving:
At Torgenson Law, we evaluate each case to determine whether the facts support a claim for punitive damages. If so, we pursue them with full force.
Insurance companies don’t automatically offer compensation for every type of damage. In fact, they often downplay or deny non-economic losses altogether. That’s why it’s critical to have a legal team that understands the full value of your injuries and knows how to demand fair treatment.
We build every case from the ground up, using evidence, expert opinions, and storytelling to present a clear picture of what you’ve lost and what it will take to recover. Whether it’s negotiating a settlement or taking the fight to trial, we’re here to make sure you’re not left picking up the pieces alone.
At Torgenson Law, we don’t just count costs—we count the human impact. And we fight to make sure that every dollar you’re entitled to is pursued aggressively and thoroughly. Because when your recovery matters, we take it personally.
Many people think they can wait until they “feel better” to deal with legal matters. But when it comes to personal injury claims, time is not on your side. In Arizona, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This applies to both physical injuries and property damage. Miss the deadline, and you may lose your right to recover anything—no matter how strong your case is.
There are limited exceptions to this two-year window. If the injured person is a minor, the clock may not start until they turn 18. If the at-fault party leaves the state or conceals their identity, the deadline may be extended. If your case involves a government vehicle or public agency, you must file a formal notice of claim within just 180 days.
The sooner you talk to a lawyer, the better your chances of preserving your claim.
Aside from legal deadlines, early action helps preserve evidence. Witness memories fade. Surveillance footage gets erased. Skid marks disappear. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to build a compelling case.
When you’re recovering from a car accident, the last thing you need is to feel like just another case on someone’s desk. At Torgenson Law, we treat every client like family. We know what you’ve been through, and we know what’s at stake—not just compensation, but your peace of mind, your future, and your dignity. That’s why we approach every case with the urgency and respect it deserves. You won’t find generic treatment or cold legal jargon here—just a team that’s ready to stand by your side and fight for you like it’s personal.
From your very first call, you’ll be connected directly with an attorney who’s fully committed to your case. We don’t make you go through layers of gatekeepers. Your questions, your concerns, your progress—everything is handled with transparency and direct communication. We believe your time matters, and so does your trust. That’s why we keep the lines open and the updates flowing.
Legal help shouldn’t be out of reach when you’re already overwhelmed with bills and uncertainty. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. There are no retainers, no hourly rates, and no surprise costs. We front the expenses for investigation, expert witnesses, medical records, and court filings. You don’t owe us a dime unless we secure a recovery for you. That’s our promise—and our motivation to give your case everything we’ve got.
At Torgenson Law, we don’t just handle your case—we carry it with you. We take time to understand your story, your challenges, and your goals. Whether that means coming to your hospital room, helping your family understand the process, or walking you through the fine print of your medical records, we do it because it matters. We’re not here to rush your case through the system. We’re here to build the strongest case possible, together.
We prepare every case like it’s going to trial, because that’s what it takes to hold insurance companies accountable. Our reputation as fierce litigators helps us negotiate from a position of strength. But if they won’t make a fair offer, we don’t hesitate to take your fight to the courtroom. We’ve won significant verdicts for clients throughout Arizona—and we’re ready to do the same for you.
You’ve been through enough. Now it’s time to get answers, take control, and start building your future. When you work with Torgenson Law, you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re gaining a partner who will stand with you every step of the way.
Reach out to us today for a free, no-pressure consultation. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and help you understand what comes next. No hidden fees. No pushy tactics. Just straight talk from a team that takes your recovery personally.
Your story matters. Let’s fight for what’s next—together.