J
By
John Quigley, Legal Content Director · Reviewed against current A.R.S. · Last reviewed 2026-06-11
If you were hurt by someone else’s negligence in the Phoenix metro, Arizona law lets you pursue compensation — but strict deadlines and the state’s comparative-fault rule shape what you can recover.
What Arizona law says
A.R.S. § 12-542 — The two-year statute of limitations for most personal-injury claims in Arizona.
A.R.S. § 12-2505 — Arizona’s pure comparative-fault rule — your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover even if mostly at fault.
A.R.S. § 12-821.01 — If a government entity is involved, you must serve a formal Notice of Claim within 180 days, long before the normal two-year deadline.
⏱ Key deadline
You generally have 2 years to file (A.R.S. § 12-542) — but only 180 days to file a Notice of Claim against a government entity.
How personal injury cases work in Maricopa County
Most injury cases settle with insurers, but a lawsuit is filed in Maricopa County Superior Court (or Justice Court for smaller amounts). Claims against a city, county, or the state carry a much shorter 180-day notice deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to file an injury claim in Arizona?
Generally two years from the injury under A.R.S. § 12-542. Claims involving government entities require a Notice of Claim within 180 days.
What if I was partly at fault?
Under A.R.S. § 12-2505, Arizona uses pure comparative fault — your award is reduced by your share of fault, but you are not barred from recovering.
What can I recover?
Medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering, depending on the facts and available insurance.
Looking for a personal injury attorney near you?
Browse personal injury attorneys serving the Phoenix metro.
Find an AttorneyFind a personal injury attorney by area
Other Arizona practice areas
Disclaimer: AZAttorneyFinder is an independent attorney directory, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. This page is general legal information about Arizona law, reviewed against the Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.). It is not a substitute for advice from a licensed Arizona attorney about your specific situation. Statutes change — verify current law before relying on it.