Is Arizona a no-fault state for car accidents?

No — Arizona is an at-fault state, sometimes called a tort state. That means the driver who caused a crash is financially responsible for the harm that results, and injured people generally pursue compensation through the at-fault driver''s liability insurance (or through the courts if a fair settlement can''t be reached).

This is different from "no-fault" states, where each driver''s own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage pays their initial medical bills regardless of who caused the crash. Arizona does not require PIP coverage.

Three practical consequences of Arizona''s at-fault system:

Fault determines recovery. Because the at-fault driver''s insurer pays, establishing who caused the crash — with evidence — matters enormously. Insurers know this, which is why fault disputes are common.

Partial fault reduces, but does not eliminate, a claim. Arizona follows pure comparative negligence (A.R.S. § 12-2505): if you were partly at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault — it is not barred.

Your own policy still matters. Arizona requires insurers to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (A.R.S. § 20-259.01). When the at-fault driver has no insurance or too little, your own UM/UIM coverage is often what actually pays.

This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed Arizona attorney.