What to Do After a Car Accident in Arkansas

Let’s talk about what to do if you’ve been in a car accident in Arkansas that wasn’t your fault. Accidents happen. Experts estimate that the average American has a collision once every 18 years, meaning even the most proactive driver will be involved in a wreck during their lifetime.

We’ll look at everything you need to do after a car accident and how to handle your car wreck claim in Arkansas.

Table of Contents

4 Things To Do After a Car Wreck?
Medical Care After a Car Accident
How To Obtain Your Crash Report in AR
How to Deal with Car Insurance
What are the Signs that You Need to Call a Lawyer?
What Types of Compensation are You Entitled To?
Common Car Wreck Questions in Arkansas

We’re excited to answer all your car wreck questions. If at any point you’d like to speak with someone from Taylor King Law, please feel free to give us a call.

We’ve been answering car accident questions for over 30 years! And with 350+ combined years of experience, you can bet we’ll have the answer.

Call for a free consultation at 870.246.0505 or use the chat feature on our page. We’ll be on your side – by your side!

4 Things to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Arkansas

Unfortunately, you can’t control other drivers on the road. You can, however, be prepared if you are hit by another car. Here are four things we recommend everyone do at the scene of an accident.

1. Call 911
   • If capable, dial 911 immediately after a wreck. The 911 operator will ensure the proper emergency care and authorities arrive at the scene. Most people don’t have the number of their local department memorized, so the operator will also help connect you to a police officer who will report to the scene. 
2. Get a Police Report
   • Communicate with the responding officer to ensure a police report is filed. You’ll need an accident report to file an insurance claim. Without one, an at-fault driver’s story may change and you’ll be in trouble. Be forthright and firm about your experience and your side of the situation.
   • For more information about obtaining an accident report: How to Obtain a Car Accident Report
3. Seek Medical Care
   • Whether you visit an emergency room or urgent care or you schedule an appointment with your primary care physician, seek medical attention if you’ve been in a car accident. We’ll discuss more further down…
4. Talk to an Attorney
   • While it’s possible to handle your car accident claim on your own (we’ll continue to help guide you below), calling a car accident lawyer can help provide you with valuable insight into how to handle your claim.

BONUS TIP: Gather Information and Evidence

You’ll need the driver’s contact details and insurance information, contact information for witnesses, and pictures of the scene. Use your phone and take photos of as much as possible. And be sure to get as much witness information as possible before they leave. You can also check for intersection cameras or recordings from nearby businesses.

Learn more about the best steps to take immediately after an accident: Car Wreck 101 and Who to Call After a Wreck. 

Who To Call After a Car Accident in Arkansas

Handling the aftermath of a car accident can be a difficult undertaking. Is insurance responding promptly? Has the at-fault changed their story? Do you need a rental car? Which mechanic is best-suited to work on your vehicle? Is the police report correct? Will my doctor see me? Why am I having headaches? Am I forced to take unpaid time for the work I missed?

Let’s look at 4 phone calls you’re likely to make after an accident:

• Dial 911.
• Call your doctor.
• Contact insurance.
• Call an attorney.

We’ve spoken about the importance of dialing 911. Now let’s talk about medical care after a wreck and when to call a doctor.

Medical Care After a Car Accident

If you were injured in an accident, getting medical care is essential. The most important thing you can do after a car accident is to take care of your health. How can you be sure you’re making the best decisions for your physical health? 

Visit your primary care physician if you’re feeling pain following your crash. You can visit an urgent care center if you don’t have a PCP.

Even if you don’t feel pain immediately after an accident, scheduling an appointment with a medical care provider is the safest and smartest way to ensure your long-term health. Adrenaline may mask injuries following an accident, and often you won’t feel pain until days later when the endorphins wear off.  Whether you visit any of the following five medical treatment options…put your health first if you’ve been in a wreck.

Medical Treatment Options After a Car Wreck

• Emergency Room
• Urgent Care
• Primary Care Physician
• Chiropractor
• Physical Therapist

Keep in mind that symptoms of a traumatic brain injury may wait weeks or even months to present, and back pain might be symptomatic of a more severe spinal injury. Car wrecks, even at slower speeds, can be devastating to your physical health.

If you’ve yet to seek medical attention, call a medical care provider today and schedule an appointment. If you’re unsure who to call, use our blog to understand better your options: Medical Treatment Options After a Wreck

We always tell clients to take care of their health and allow their attorney to take care of everything else. After you’ve sought medical care, your next call needs to be to an attorney.

Common Injuries After a Car Accident

Because each car accident is different, no two injuries are exactly alike. However, there are some injuries that people commonly experience after being in a car wreck. The most common injuries following a crash are:

Whiplash

…is one of the most common injuries resulting from a car accident, happening most often in rear-end collisions. Whiplash occurs when your head and neck are suddenly jerked back and forth (like the cracking of a whip…hence the name), and symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. Most symptoms resolve over time, but they may require medication or therapy. Moreover, a smaller number will suffer from chronic neck problems and pain afterward. Other neck injuries include disc injury and cervical radiculopathy (irritated nerves).

Back Injuries

Your spine is divided into three different sections: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebrae. With the discs, muscles, tendons, and nerves in your spinal area, back injuries are common, but also very painful. In a car wreck, back injuries can range from strained muscles or dislocated discs to serious spinal cord trauma. In many cases, chiropractic work or physical therapy can relieve pain and help realign your spine, but some injuries may require surgery to restore mobility. Never ignore back pain after being in a crash.

Concussion (Head Injuries)

…are usually caused when your head strikes a part of the car, such as the steering wheel or window, giving your brain a “jolt” that can actually cause it to move inside your skull. A concussion is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury, and if you or someone you love has been involved in a car wreck, we’d advise you to watch for signs of a concussion: confusion, slurred speech, nausea or vomiting, headaches, blurred vision, or memory loss.

Leg and Knee Injuries

Most people think of upper body injuries when discussing car wrecks, but your legs and knees are also at risk. These injuries usually result when a passenger hits their knees or legs on the dashboard, or when part of the car is smashed inward. The knee area, with its ligaments and tendons, is especially prone to injury. Other possible injuries include fractures, broken bones, or cuts and bruises.

What if My Doctor Won’t See Me After a Car Accident

If your doctor is refusing to see you after you’ve been in a car accident in Arkansas, then contact an attorney. Our team has helped thousands find the medical care they need after an accident.

Visiting an emergency room is another option if your PCP won’t see you. However, ER costs can be high.

How to Obtain Your Accident Report in Arkansas

If you’re involved in a car wreck, then you’ll need a copy of your accident report. There are 3 ways to obtain an Arkansas police report:

• Online
• By Mail
• In-Person

For a full rundown, including costs, visit How to Obtain a Police Report in Arkansas. If you’re unsure about getting a copy, a car accident lawyer will be able to help you obtain your accident report.

What Do I Need to Do After a Car Wreck to Obtain an Accident Report?

No matter which method you choose (online, mail, or in person), some basic information about the wreck will help you access the report more quickly: 

1. The name of at least one driver involved in the accident
2. The date the accident occurred 
3. The accident report number OR the driver’s license for one of the drivers

You’ll also need to pay $10 per copy to obtain a crash report in Arkansas.

How to Deal with Insurance After My Car Accident

It’s possible to handle your car accident claim without the help of an attorney, in which case you’ll need to call an insurance adjuster for the at-fault driver. This information will be available in the accident report.

If you’re unsure whether you need an attorney after a car accident in Arkansas, check out our Seven Red Flags below that indicate it’s time to call a lawyer. Assuming none of those red flags appear, let’s look at how to deal with insurance.

Should I Call an Insurance Adjuster After a Car Accident in AR?

We recommend calling the at-fault insurance company to open your accident claim.

The insurance claims process may vary from insurance company to insurance company. State Farm may handle your claim differently than Allstate or Progressive, but the process should be straightforward.

You’ll receive claim information and be assigned an insurance adjuster to handle your claim. The insurance adjuster is your point of contact. Keep in mind that an adjuster’s job is to handle your claim with as little cost to their company as possible. They work for the insurance company!

After you’ve opened your accident claim with the at-fault insurance, you’ll want to be aware of the following two tactics that insurance may use to minimize your claim.

Two Insurance Tactics to Watch Out For After a Car Wreck

There are two common tactics that an insurance adjuster will use to try and settle your claim at a lower value:

1. They’ll try and settle your claim immediately, or…
2. They’ll delay settling your claim as long as possible.

It’s important to know that both tactics are very common.

Insurance Tries Settling My Car Accident Claim Quickly

Adjusters offer a settlement within the first few phone calls to car accident victims for one simple reason: it saves the insurance company time and money. A quick resolution may seem appealing at first, but you shouldn’t take the bait: accepting this initial settlement may cost you dearly. In the first days or weeks after a car wreck, you can’t yet know what your claim is fully worth.

Once you agree to a car accident settlement, it’s game over. You cannot negotiate for another settlement afterward.

A personal injury attorney will not begin negotiations until you’ve been released by a doctor and have all the data on property damage, lost wages, and more for this very reason. You need to do the same when handling your own claim. You deserve fair compensation for the loss and injuries you’ve endured.

Before you speak with an insurance adjuster, remember these five things:

1. Remain calm.
2. Ask for the adjuster’s information.
3. Avoid sharing too much information about yourself.
4. Decline to give detailed accident or injury information.
5. Be firm that you’re waiting to settle until you’re ready.

To learn more about how to handle an insurance claim, read here: What If Insurance Tries to Settle Quickly?

Insurance Delays Settling My Car Wreck Claim

On the other hand, delaying your claim’s settlement is a tactic designed to frustrate you. The phrase “let’s just get this over with” typically doesn’t translate to maximum value for your claim. And insurance adjusters know this!

If an insurance company is not answering your calls, we have 4 tips:

• Be patient, but persistent.
• Try another form of communication, such as email or text.
• Ask to speak with a supervisor.
• Hire a car accident lawyer.

You can read more here: What If Insurance Won’t Return My Calls?

Why Would I Call a Personal Injury Lawyer?

No one is prepared for a car wreck. However, an Arkansas injury attorney knows exactly how to handle your AR car accident claim. They’ll know what to do after a car accident in Arkansas and an experienced lawyer will handle every step of the process so that you’re able to focus on your recovery.

After a car accident in Arkansas, you’ll be forced to deal with several issues:

• Dealing with insurance adjusters
• Was your vehicle towed?
• Is your vehicle totaled or in need of repairs?
• Determining lost wages
• Medical care
• Will your PCP see you?
• Obtaining your accident report
• What if the report is incorrect?
• Insurance is being difficult to deal with
• What if I’m still in pain?
• Still in need of a rental car
• Do I need a new car seat for my child?

Whether you choose to hire an attorney or not, our law firm can help you answer these questions and point you in the right direction.

Unsure whether you need an attorney?

Seven Red Flags That Indicate It’s Time to Call A Car Accident Lawyer in Arkansas

1. Claim Denied
   • If the insurance company has denied your claim or their offer is lower than the cost of your damages…you need to call a lawyer.
2. Serious Injury
   • If you have a serious injury following your crash that needs ongoing treatment with significant medical bills…you need to call a lawyer.
3. At-Fault’s Story Changes
   • It happens! If the driver at fault for the accident has changed their story and is now denying fault…you need to call a lawyer.
4. Pre-Existing Injuries
   • Insurance may use a pre-existing injury as leverage to lower your settlement. If you have pre-existing injuries…you need to call a lawyer.
5. Unfairly Treated
   • If you’re unsure whether you’re being treated fairly by insurance, or you simply aren’t clear on your legal rights in Arkansas…you need to call a lawyer.
6. More Than a Year
   • If it’s been more than a year since your accident…you need to call a lawyer.
7. Coverage Questioned
   • An attorney knows how to turn over every stone and pursue every avenue of compensation. If insurance is being questioned…you need to call a lawyer.

What Happens If I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer After a Car Wreck?

Once you’ve determined an attorney is right for you, then that law firm will start to work on your case immediately. Before they can begin, you’ll be asked to sign a contract that communicates you’ve hired that law firm to handle your claim.

More than likely you’ll be asked to sign a medical authorization that grants that attorney the authority to obtain medical records related to your accident.

When you hire an experienced firm with the necessary resources, that firm will take photographs, obtain evidence and a copy of the police report, question witnesses, and even hire an accident reconstructionist if needed.

Your attorney will contact insurance and ensure claims have been opened and they’ll let the insurance company know that you’re being represented.

After the initial phase, an AR attorney will help you with your property damage and get you into a rental car. Additionally, they should ensure that you’re receiving the medical treatment you need.

Once you’ve finished treatment and you’re back to work, your lawyer will put together documents, including lost wages and medical records, that help tell your story. With all the information in hand, your attorney will negotiate with insurance to get you the compensation you deserve.

Car Wreck Compensation Questions

“How much is my claim worth?” and other compensation questions are common after an accident. You’ve been through something traumatic. For most of our clients, this is one of the worst moments of their lives. It’s understandable that car accident victims seek recompense for their injuries and experience.

How Much is My Car Accident Settlement Worth?

There’s no sure-fire system for evaluating the exact amount of what your case is worth. However, our team of attorneys has more than 350 years of combined legal experience. Visit our Car Wreck Compensation page for a deeper dive into your claim’s value.

Calculate My Car Accident Settlement in Arkansas

We’ll be honest and upfront about what we can do for you and how much your claim is worth.

What Types of Compensation Am I Eligible to Receive After an Accident?

There are numerous damages to consider if you’ve been in a car wreck. When you speak with a car wreck lawyer in Arkansas, ask about the following types of compensation:

• Medical Expenses
• Property Damage
• Lost Wages
• Lost Profits
• Property Loss
• Rental Car
• Diminished Earnings
• Prescription Costs
• Mental Anguish
• Pain & Suffering
• Future Medical Costs

Visit our COMPENSATION page to learn more.

Common Questions to Ask an Arkansas Car Accident Injury Lawyer

Some important laws in Arkansas can affect your claim. These questions should be asked of an attorney when you call:

What is the Statute of Limitations in Arkansas?

A car wreck claim falls under the umbrella of a personal injury claim.

In Arkansas, you have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This window that you have to file a lawsuit is what’s known as the statute of limitations. Personal injury claims include car wrecks.

The statute of limitations can vary from state to state, which is why it’s critical to hire a local car accident lawyer in Arkansas. For example, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Texas is two years!

When you call to speak with an attorney, one of the initial questions you’ll be asked is when the accident took place. With this information, a law firm will be able to obtain a police report as well as ensure your case meets the necessary statute of limitations.

For a full copy: Arkansas Statute of Limitations

What is Modified Comparative Fault in Arkansas?

The modified comparative fault rule applies in the state of Arkansas. When more than one party is involved in an accident, a percentage of fault is applied to each party.

To file a lawsuit, modified comparative fault means you must be found less than 50% at fault for the accident.

Oftentimes, an insurance company will claim that the victim was partially at fault for the accident. Modified comparative fault states that the plaintiff cannot seek damages if they are found to be 50% or more at fault.

Your attorney will be responsible for handling this part of your car wreck claim and ensuring you receive compensation.

What Not To Do After a Car Wreck in Arkansas?

In 30 years of helping accident victims, we’ve learned a great deal about maximizing recovery and minimizing damages. That includes a few mistakes to avoid – what not to do after a car wreck. 

• Do NOT agree to sort things out with the other driver. Not filing a report with the police is one of the most common mistakes after a wreck. Always call the authorities.
• Do NOT leave the scene without getting detailed information. Obtain information including contact info for any potential witnesses. Take photos!
• Do NOT downplay your injuries. If you’re feeling soreness, let the attending officers know. Adrenaline can mask initial injuries but avoid downplaying pain.

Visit Car Wreck 103: What Not to Do for our full list of after-accident “don’ts.”

What If I’ve Been in a Car Accident in Arkansas and Still Have Questions?

A car accident is a traumatic event. Unfortunately, the stress of dealing with insurance and the logistics following a wreck can make things worse. If you’ve been in an accident and have questions, you can visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more info or…

Call Taylor King at (870) 246-0505. It’s free to call. We’ll gladly answer your questions and help you however we can! It’s our commitment to being “on your side – by your side” when you need us most.

You’ll speak with an experienced team member prepared to help you find the answers you’re looking for.

Injured in an Auto Accident that Wasn’t Your Fault?

A car wreck can turn your world upside down. On top of dealing with physical pain and medical treatment, you may also be unable to work, facing expensive medical bills, and struggling to get your car repaired. Financial stress can pile on top of the mental and emotional stress. But if the other driver was at fault, you have options. You’re not alone.

Taylor King Law has a team of attorneys who can ensure you’re fairly compensated for the pain you’ve suffered. We’ve been helping our friends and neighbors in Arkansas for over 30 years.

At Taylor King Law, we handle your car accident case like a long-distance race, not a sprint. We will always work to settle your case as quickly as possible so that you can get your bills paid and move on with your life, but we will never cut corners or allow the insurance company to take advantage of you.

And because our attorney’s fee is a percentage of your settlement, you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.