Law Firm Recognition, Awards
Clients want a Yuma personal injury lawyer they can trust, and our track record reflects that commitment. Our attorneys have earned recognition from respected rating services, highlighting our experience, ethics, and results across a wide range of personal injury cases.
Our team has been recognized for its advocacy, trial skills, and dedication to injury victims across AZ. And Caitlin Engstrand, Partner at National Injury Attorneys, has earned several honors, including the Rising Star Award and the Defender of Justice Award from Maricopa County.
Why Hire a Yuma Personal Injury Lawyer Near You
Local experience in Yuma County Superior Court and Justice Court
Our attorneys know the Yuma County Superior Court system inside and out. We understand local filing procedures, deadlines, and what judges expect. This local expertise helps move your case forward smoothly and efficiently.
Negotiating with insurance claims adjusters
We’ve worked with insurance companies in Yuma for years. We know their tactics, their claims adjusters, and how to negotiate effectively for maximum compensation on your insurance claim.
Easy Access to Your Yuma Personal Injury Attorney — Se habla Español
As local Yuma attorneys, we’re here when you need us. Meet us at our office, or we can come to you. Can’t make it to our office? No problem – we offer virtual consultations to review your case from anywhere.
Quick access means faster document signing, easier meetings, and better communication throughout your case.
We serve Yuma’s diverse community with Spanish-language support.
Case Results and Social Proof
Our case results reflect the work we put into every client’s recovery. As a team of experienced Yuma personal injury lawyers, we’ve helped clients recover life-changing compensation after serious accidents and insurance disputes. These outcomes reflect our commitment to injury victims across Arizona and our ability to build strong cases in complex situations. We have earned a perfect five-star rating based on more than 100 verified client reviews.
Millions Secured: Landmark Case Results
Bicycle Accident
A $2 million recovery for a cyclist who suffered serious injuries.
Motorcycle Accident
A $1.2 million compensation secured in a challenging motorcycle accident claim.
Semi-Truck Accident
A $1 million settlement recovered in a complex commercial vehicle case.
Insurance Bad Faith in Auto Collision
Secured a settlement worth four times the pre-lawsuit offer for a husband, wife, and infant after State Farm wrongfully blamed them for a crash. After filing suit and preparing for trial, we proved the insurer’s driver caused the collision.
- Recovered policy limits for a family of four after State Farm offered less than their medical bills. The case was resolved during discovery once liability and damages were established.
- Obtained a fair settlement for a husband and wife after State Farm made a low initial offer. The insurer reversed course immediately after a lawsuit was filed.
- Together, our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for injury victims throughout Yuma and Arizona, even in cases insurers initially refused to treat fairly.
Peer-Recognized Expertise and Authority
Our attorneys are trusted within the legal community, earning recognition and active membership in respected national organizations, including:
- Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum – Member
- National Trial Lawyers – Member
- Super Lawyers – Member
- American Association for Justice – Member
Client Success Stories: Trust Built on Communication
We’ve earned lasting client relationships by staying accessible, responsive, and transparent every step of the way. Here’s what our clients have to say about us:
“Scott was amazing! He made the process of filing simple! Scott took the time to explain the steps in detail! He’s very down to earth and easy to talk to, and patient when life happens during the call. I’d recommend anyone go to for filing their case!”
Amanda Bruce
“After experiencing a very traumatic car accident this past Christmas, my world completely changed. It’s taken time, therapy, and a lot of strength to regain my independence. Through all of that, having Carl as my attorney made the process so much more manageable.
I found Carl through a friend and honestly, the best attorneys are always the ones recommended by word of mouth. From day one, he was supportive, responsive, and genuinely caring. Just having someone I could reach out to with a simple text and know I’d be heard and helped made all the difference.
He guided me every step of the way, never made me feel like just a case file, and truly had my back throughout this entire journey. I can’t recommend Carl enough, he’s not only great at what he does, he’s someone you want in your corner when life takes an unexpected turn.”
Berenice Garcia
“Mr. Jackson is a lovely gentleman to speak with. He’s very patient, kind, knowledgeable, and understanding. He takes all the time necessary to explain everything and answer all questions. Mr. Jackson is beyond professional because he shows such a great amount of genuine care and concern. A true gentleman in a world of so few.
Edited to add: I just had the pleasure of speaking at length with a lovely gentleman by the name of Mr. Wilkie. What a great representative he is for this or any business. I enjoyed our conversation thoroughly. He made something quite serious much more relaxed through his kindness and humor. A true gem.”
Jamie Kass
Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle in Yuma and the Surrounding Communities
Vehicle Accidents
- Car Crashes – From fender-benders to serious crashes on I-8 or US-95
- Motorcycle accidents – Protecting riders’ rights after serious injuries
- Truck accidents – Complex cases involving commercial vehicles
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents – When drivers fail to share the road
- Rideshare accidents (Uber & Lyft) – Navigating insurance coverage issues
- Boating, ATV, and off-road vehicle accidents – Common in Yuma’s recreational areas
Other Injury Claims
- Construction site and workplace third-party claims – Beyond workers’ comp
- Slip and fall / Premises liability – Unsafe property conditions
- Dog bites – Arizona’s strict liability laws protect victims
- Nursing home abuse and neglect – Protecting our vulnerable seniors
- Medical malpractice – When healthcare providers cause harm
- Wrongful death – Supporting families through tragic losses
- Product liability – Defective products that cause injury
- Catastrophic Injuries (Traumatic Brain Injuries, Spinal Injuries, Burns) – Life-changing injury cases
Arizona Personal Injury Law Explained: Negligence, Comparative Fault, and Negligence Per Se
Negligence: Duty, Breach, Causation, and Damages
Most personal injury cases are based on negligence. To win, we must prove that the at-fault party had a duty of care, they breached that duty, this breach caused your injuries, and that you suffered damages as a result.
Violations of safety statutes, like traffic violations, can constitute negligence per se and strengthen liability.
Arizona’s Pure Comparative Fault Rules
Under Arizona law, you can recover compensation even if you’re partially at fault. Your settlement or verdict is reduced by your percentage of fault. This comparative fault system means you shouldn’t give up on your claim just because you think you might share some blame.
Understanding Torts and How Claims Are Proven
A tort is a civil wrong that causes harm. We build your case using evidence like police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert witness testimony to prove liability and damages.
Insurance Claims and Settlement vs. Trial
Most cases settle through negotiations with claims adjusters before trial. We prepare every case for trial while working toward a fair settlement. Mediation or arbitration may help resolve disputes without a court.
Insurance coverage includes Bodily Injury liability (BI), Property Damage Liability (PDL), which covers vehicle repairs/replacement alongside BI claims, Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM), and medical payments coverage (MedPay).
How We Build and Value Your Claim in Yuma
Evidence preservation: spoliation letters, crash reports, and ADOT data
We immediately send a spoliation letter to preserve crucial evidence. Our team gathers crash reports from the Yuma Police Department or Arizona Department of Public Safety and utilizes Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) data for crash analysis, road closures, and roadway information that can support negligence and help with accident reconstruction.
Accident reconstruction and expert witnesses
We conduct accident reconstruction when needed and work with expert witnesses to strengthen your case and prove liability.
Damages: economic, non-economic, and loss of consortium
We assess both economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering), including loss of consortium claims. We typically value claims after you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) to accurately assess future care and permanent impairment.
Coverage review: bodily injury liability, property damage liability, UM/UIM, and MedPay
We examine all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery, including bodily injury liability, property damage liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and medical payments coverage.
Liens, subrogation, policy limits, and punitive damages
We handle complex issues like liens, subrogation, and medical billing disputes. When policy limits are insufficient, we also explore punitive damages and other recovery options.
Your Personal Injury Case Journey: From Free Initial Consultation to Settlement or Trial
Free Consultation and Case Evaluation
We review your case, explain your rights, and outline your options – all at no upfront cost to you. Bring the following to your consultation:
- Photo ID
- Insurance information (auto/health)
- Medical records/bills
- Photos/video of the accident
- Witness information
- Police/crash report number
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
We collect your medical records, crash report from the Yuma Police Department or Arizona Department of Public Safety, and other supporting documents to build your case.
Demand letter, policy limits, and negotiations
We send a demand letter outlining your damages and negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation. We request policy-limit disclosures early and evaluate BI/UM/UIM/MedPay limits to maximize recovery.
Filing suit and discovery (interrogatories and depositions)
If negotiations fail, we file your lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires and proceed through discovery, including interrogatories, requests for production, and depositions to build your case.
Mediation/arbitration and trial
Whether through settlement, mediation, arbitration, or trial verdict, we fight for maximum compensation and handle all lien resolution.
Don’t Wait – Arizona Has Strict Deadlines
Most personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years. Government claims require notice within 180 days.
Meet Our Team
Caitlin Engstrand – Partner
Caitlin Engstrand brings more than a decade of trauma-informed advocacy to National Injury Attorneys. As a partner and experienced trial attorney, she has spent her career standing up for individuals affected by serious harm, including victims of violence, exploitation, and institutional failures.
Before joining the firm, Caitlin served as a public defender and later as a supervising attorney, managing complex cases and supporting survivors of trafficking and trauma. She holds a J.D. from the University of the District of Columbia and is admitted to practice in Arizona.
Caitlin remains dedicated to community service, mentoring youth and supporting local restorative justice initiatives.
Carl Engstrand – Managing Attorney
As a founding partner of National Injury Attorneys, Carl Engstrand has built his career around helping injured plaintiffs secure meaningful results. He began practicing in 2013 after earning his J.D. from the University of the District of Columbia and quickly developed a reputation for resolving high-value cases while managing fast-growing legal teams.
Carl’s background spans trial work, business development, and operational leadership, giving him a unique perspective on what clients need during their challenging moments. His shift to a boutique practice allowed him to focus on a select caseload, offering hands-on attention and consistent communication to every client he represents.
Anthony Ramirez – Associate Attorney
Anthony Ramirez brings a dynamic mix of legal, investigative, and insurance experience to National Injury Attorneys. With more than ten years in the field, he offers clients a comprehensive perspective on personal injury and disputed insurance claims.
Anthony earned his J.D. from Arizona Summit Law School and is licensed in Arizona, New Mexico, and multiple federal courts. His background as an insurance adjuster, private investigator, and former police officer strengthens his ability to analyze collisions and build fact-driven cases.
He remains active in the community through roles with MADD and the Arizona Rangers, reflecting his commitment to public safety and service.
Richard DePonte – Of Counsel
With over 30 years of experience in personal injury law, Richard DePonte serves as trusted counsel to clients facing serious injuries and complex claims. Licensed since 1987, he has handled cases from investigation through resolution, consistently delivering steady guidance and practical insight. Richard’s approach blends legal skill with genuine care for the people he represents, crafting case strategies that reflect each client’s story and circumstances.
Outside of his practice, he and his wife Donna share a love of travel and exploration – an outlook that inspires the thoughtful, human-centered advocacy he brings to every injury case.
After an Accident in Yuma: Do's and Don'ts
Medical care and reaching maximum medical improvement (MMI)
See a doctor right away, even if you feel okay. Follow your treatment plan carefully until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI). Gaps in treatment can hurt your claim.
Property damage help: estimates, repairs, and rentals
Our team helps secure repair estimates, coordinate rentals, and communicate with property damage liability (PDL) carriers to get your vehicle repaired or replaced quickly.
Recorded statements and common insurer tactics
Never give a recorded statement to insurance companies without legal counsel. Don’t sign anything or accept quick settlement offers. The insurance adjuster is not your friend.
Quick Do’s and Don’ts:
Do:
- Seek medical care immediately
- Photograph the scene/vehicles
- Save all receipts
- Start a pain journal
Don’t:
- Give a recorded statement without an attorney
- Post about the crash on social media
- Miss follow-up appointments
Fees and Payment: Contingency Fee, Costs, and What Happens If We Don't Win
No Fees Unless We Win Your Case
Our contingency fee agreement means you pay nothing up front. Attorney fees come from your settlement or verdict – we don’t get paid if we don’t win.
Transparent Fee Structure and Cost Handling
We clearly explain all costs and fees before you sign anything. We advance case costs, including expert fees, medical records, filing fees, and service costs. These costs are typically deducted from your settlement before attorney fees are calculated. No hidden charges or surprise bills.
Deadlines: Arizona Statute of Limitations (A.R.S. § 12-542; § 12-821.01)
Two-Year Deadline for Most Claims
Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-542, you generally have two years from the injury date to file a lawsuit.
Special Rules and Exceptions
Government claims require notice within 180 days per Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-821.01. Minors may have extended deadlines. Don’t risk missing your deadline – contact us immediately.
Local Resources: Yuma Police, DPS, ADOT, and Yuma County Courts
Medical Providers
Yuma Regional Medical Center and local urgent care facilities provide emergency treatment and ongoing care documentation for your case.
Obtaining Reports
We help you get crash reports from the Yuma Police Department, Yuma County Sheriff, or Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), and accident data from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT).
Court Information
Cases may be filed in Yuma County Superior Court or Justice Court, depending on the damages amount.
Dangerous Roads
Many accidents occur on I-8, US-95, and in areas like Fortuna Foothills. We know these crash hotspots and their unique hazards.
Service Areas: Yuma, Somerton, San Luis, Wellton, Fortuna Foothills
Yuma County Communities
We serve clients throughout Yuma County, including Yuma, Somerton, San Luis, Wellton, Fortuna Foothills, Gadsden, and Dateland.
Rural and Agricultural Areas
Accidents in rural Yuma County and agricultural corridors require attorneys who understand these unique environments.
Statewide Representation
While based in Yuma, we represent injury victims throughout Arizona.
Yuma Personal Injury Lawyer FAQs: Your Questions Answered
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer in Yuma?
Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis – you only pay if we win your case. The fee is a percentage of your settlement or verdict.
What is the process for filing a personal injury claim in Arizona?
First, we investigate and gather evidence. Then we negotiate with insurance companies. If needed, we file a lawsuit and proceed through litigation.
How long does a personal injury case take?
Simple cases may settle in months. Complex cases can take 1-2 years or more. We work efficiently while ensuring maximum recovery.
What if I was partially at fault for my injury?
Arizona’s comparative fault law allows recovery even if you’re partly at fault. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Do I have to go to court for my case?
Most cases settle without trial. If litigation is necessary, we prepare you thoroughly and handle all legal proceedings.
What happens if I lose my case?
With our contingency fee structure, you owe nothing for attorney fees if we don’t recover compensation.
Should I speak to the insurance adjuster or give a recorded statement?
No. Always consult an attorney first. Insurance adjusters use recorded statements against you to minimize or deny claims.
What is my case worth?
Case value depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and impact on your life. We evaluate all factors during your free initial consultation.
Who pays my medical bills before settlement?
Your health insurance, MedPay, or medical liens may cover treatment. We help coordinate coverage and protect your interests.
When should I contact a personal injury attorney in Yuma?
Immediately. Early involvement protects evidence, preserves your rights, and ensures you meet all deadlines, including the statute of limitations.
Is a local Yuma attorney better than hiring a large Yuma/TV firm for my case?
Local Yuma attorneys offer personalized service, know the local courts and judges, and can meet with you in person. Large firms often pass cases to junior attorneys and may not understand Yuma’s unique community and legal landscape.
How do your contingency fees and case costs compare to other Yuma personal injury firms?
Our fees are competitive and transparent. We advance all case costs and clearly explain our fee structure upfront. Many firms charge similar percentages, but we distinguish ourselves through personalized service and maximum recovery efforts.
Can you help get my car repaired and a rental while my injury claim is pending?
Yes. We help coordinate with property damage liability carriers, secure repair estimates, arrange rental vehicles, and ensure your vehicle damage claim is handled quickly while we pursue your injury claim.
Contact Our Yuma Personal Injury Team for a Free Consultation
Get Your Free Consultation Today
Don’t wait to protect your rights. Call us, submit our online case evaluation form, or visit our Yuma office for your free consultation.
Start Your Claim Now
The sooner you act, the stronger your case. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and deadlines approach. Contact us today to start building your claim.
24/7 Availability for Urgent Calls
Accidents don’t follow business hours. We’re available 24/7 for urgent injury calls. When you need help most, we’re here.
Ready to Fight for Your Rights?
Get the compensation you deserve with experienced Yuma personal injury lawyers on your side.
No fees unless we win • Se habla Español
Resources and Citations
- State Bar of Arizona
- American Bar Association – Personal Injury Resources
- Arizona Judicial Branch
- Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-542 (Two-Year Limitation)
- Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-821.01 (Notice of Claim)
- Arizona Department of Public Safety – Collision Reports
- Yuma County Superior Court
- Arizona Department of Transportation
Serving Yuma, Somerton, San Luis, Wellton, Fortuna Foothills and all of Yuma County with dedicated personal injury representation. Contact us today for your free case review.
