First-party and third-party insurance claims serve different purposes, and knowing the difference can affect how your car accident case is handled. First-party claims involve your own insurance provider, while third-party claims are filed against the person who caused the crash.
Your Phoenix accident lawyer from Sargon Law Group will help you understand which type of claim applies to your case and how to pursue the maximum compensation available.
What Is the Difference Between First and Third Party Insurance Claims?
When you are involved in a car accident, the type of insurance claim you file depends on who was at fault and what coverage is available. A first-party claim is made through your own insurance company, while a third-party claim is filed against the other driver’s insurance. The severity of the crash, policy limits, and evidence of fault all influence which type of claim applies to your situation.
First-Party Coverage and How It Applies to Arizona Drivers
First-party coverage protects you through your own auto insurance policy. It may include benefits such as collision coverage, medical payments, or uninsured and underinsured motorist protection. If the other driver does not have insurance or leaves the scene, first-party coverage can help you recover damages.
Under A.R.S. § 20-259.01, Arizona insurance companies are required to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, giving drivers a safety net when others fail to carry adequate insurance.
What to Expect When You File a Third-Party Claim
A third-party claim is filed with the insurance company for the driver who caused the accident. You may seek compensation for vehicle damage, medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses. These claims are often more complex because they require proof that the other driver was legally responsible. Insurance adjusters may question the severity of your injuries or try to shift blame.
Disputes over liability, pre-existing conditions, or incomplete documentation can delay the claims process. If you are wondering how long a car accident settlement takes, the answer often depends on how quickly evidence is gathered and how willing the other party is to negotiate.
Our team helps you prepare a strong claim that supports your version of events and pushes back when insurers delay or deny payment.
What Else Affects the Outcome of an Insurance Claim?
Not every accident-related expense is handled through your auto insurance policy alone. In many cases, additional coverage types or legal issues affect how much compensation you can receive. This section breaks down the key variables that often change the direction of both first- and third-party insurance claims. Factors that may influence your claim outcome include:
- Fault assigned to each driver
- State minimum liability requirements
- Policy coverage limits
- Severity and type of injury
- Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage availability
- Gaps or inconsistencies in medical treatment
- Whether a police report was filed
- Time between accident and claim report
- The insurer’s cooperation and communication
We review every part of your case to help you understand what to expect and what coverage may apply. If you are wondering whether health insurance covers car accidents, the answer depends on your policy and the timing of care. A Phoenix personal injury lawyer from our team can evaluate all available coverage options and use A.R.S. § 28-4009 as a baseline to identify gaps or shortfalls in what insurers may offer.
Consult a Car Accident Lawyer Who Understands Insurance Disputes
Insurance disputes are not always straightforward, especially when multiple policies are involved. Your car accident attorney with Sargon Law Group will help you understand your rights, file the correct claims, and advocate for your full recovery.
We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and bring years of dedication serving the community to every case we handle. Contact us today to get answers and trusted legal guidance.