What Drivers in Scottsdale & Lake Havasu Need to Know to Stay Legal—and Protected
Every Arizona driver is legally required to carry minimum liability auto insurance. However, many aren’t aware of the exact coverage limits—or how relying on the minimum could leave them financially vulnerable after a serious accident. At Rideout Law Group, our personal injury and criminal defense attorneys in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu explain what’s required, what’s at risk, and how to fully protect your rights under Arizona law.
2025 Arizona Minimum Car Insurance Limits
Under A.R.S. §28-4009, Arizona drivers must carry:
- $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
- $15,000 for property damage liability per accident
This is commonly written as 25/50/15 coverage.
While these amounts meet the legal minimum, they are often insufficient when it comes to real-world accidents—especially those involving serious injuries or multiple vehicles.
Why Arizona’s Minimum Coverage May Not Be Enough
From rear-end crashes on Loop 101 in Scottsdale to high-speed accidents on Highway 95 in Lake Havasu, even “minor” collisions can result in:
- Medical expenses far exceeding $25,000
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs beyond $15,000
- Lost wages and long-term rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering damages (in civil claims)
If the at-fault driver’s insurance runs out, they may be held personally liable for the rest. That’s why we often advise clients to carry more than the minimum—and consider uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) for added protection.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Arizona
Driving uninsured in Arizona has steep legal and financial consequences:
First Offense:
- $500 fine
- License suspended for 3 months
- SR-22 insurance required
Second Offense:
- $750 fine
- License suspended for 6 months
- SR-22 requirement
Third Offense:
- $1,000+ fine
- 12-month license suspension
- Higher insurance premiums and possible vehicle impoundment
If you’re in an accident without insurance, you could face additional civil liability and even lose your vehicle.
What to Do After an Accident in Arizona
Whether you’re in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Lake Havasu, or elsewhere in Arizona, take the following steps after a crash:
- Call 911 — report the accident and request medical aid
- Document the scene — take photos, gather witness info
- Exchange insurance details — confirm policy coverage
- Avoid admitting fault — statements can be used against you
- Contact an attorney — before speaking to insurers
Our personal injury lawyers help clients avoid quick, unfair insurance settlements and pursue the full value of their claims.
How Rideout Law Group Helps Auto Accident Victims
With strategically located offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu, we represent victims of:
- Car and truck accidents
- Motorcycle crashes
- Hit-and-run incidents
- Drunk driving injuries
- Claims involving uninsured or underinsured drivers
- Fatal accident (wrongful death) lawsuits
We conduct full investigations, handle insurance negotiations, and fight for compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Local Insight: Common Crash Zones in Scottsdale & Lake Havasu
Our attorneys regularly handle cases involving these high-risk areas:
Scottsdale:
- Loop 101 Freeway
- Scottsdale Road
- Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd
Lake Havasu:
- Highway 95
- McCulloch Blvd
- London Bridge district
Rear-end collisions, speeding accidents, and impaired driving are frequent contributors in these areas.
Injured in a Crash? Let Rideout Law Protect Your Rights
Whether you’ve been hit by a negligent driver or cited after a crash, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process. Rideout Law Group offers aggressive, compassionate representation with free consultations and local experience that gets results.
📍 Scottsdale Office
11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 584-3328
📍 Lake Havasu Office
2800 Sweetwater Ave, Suite A104
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406
(928) 854-8181
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.