If you've been in a car accident in Arkansas, take these steps in order: (1) check for injuries and call 911, (2) move to safety if you can, (3) report the accident to police, (4) exchange information with the other driver, (5) photograph the scene and your injuries, (6) get medical attention even if you feel fine, and (7) contact a personal injury attorney before giving a recorded statement to any insurance company. The steps below explain each one, what Arkansas law requires, and the deadlines that protect your right to recover compensation.
The moments after a crash are stressful and confusing. What you do next can protect both your health and your ability to be fairly compensated. Here's exactly what to do.
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your safety comes first. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 for any injury, and don't try to diagnose yourself at the scene — adrenaline masks pain. Reporting the crash also creates the official record you'll need later.
2. Move to Safety — If It's Safe to Do So
If the vehicles are drivable and you're not seriously hurt, move them out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights. If a vehicle can't be moved or anyone is seriously injured, leave everything in place and wait for help.
3. Report the Accident to Police
In Arkansas, you are required to report any accident involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Ask that an officer come to the scene and file a report. A police report documents the facts, the parties, and often an officer's assessment of fault — one of the most important pieces of evidence in any later claim.
4. Exchange Information With the Other Driver
Collect the other driver's name, phone number, driver's license number, license plate, and insurance company and policy number. Get the same for any witnesses. Stay calm and courteous, but do not apologize or admit fault — statements made in the moment can be taken out of context and used against you.
5. Document the Scene
Use your phone to photograph everything: vehicle damage, the position of the cars, skid marks, traffic signs, road conditions, license plates, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. This evidence disappears quickly once cars are towed and the scene is cleared.
6. Get Medical Attention — Even If You Feel Fine
See a doctor within 24–72 hours even if you don't feel hurt. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, and internal trauma often don't show symptoms for days. A prompt medical record does two things: it protects your health, and it links your injuries directly to the crash — which matters if an insurance company later argues you weren't really hurt.
7. Be Careful With Insurance — and Talk to a Lawyer First
The other driver's insurance company may call within days asking for a recorded statement or offering a quick settlement. You are not required to give the other side's insurer a recorded statement, and early settlement offers are often far lower than your claim is worth. Before you sign anything or say much of anything, talk to a personal injury attorney. A short conversation costs you nothing and can protect the full value of your claim.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. If you miss that deadline, you can lose your right to recover compensation entirely. Some situations — such as claims involving a government vehicle or the death of a loved one — can have shorter or different deadlines, so it's wise to speak with an attorney early rather than waiting. (This is general information, not legal advice about your specific case.)
Is Arkansas an At-Fault State for Car Accidents?
Yes. Arkansas is an at-fault ("tort") state, which means the driver who caused the crash — and their insurance company — is responsible for the resulting damages. Arkansas also uses a modified comparative fault rule: your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault, and if you're found 50% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovering. This is exactly why the evidence you gather at the scene matters, and why insurers work hard to shift blame onto you.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Depending on your case, you may be able to recover money for medical bills (current and future), lost wages and lost earning capacity, vehicle repair or replacement, and pain and suffering. The right amount depends on the specific facts — which is why a quick case review is valuable before you accept any offer.
Why Work With a Local Batesville Attorney
At Fuller Bumpers, Attorney at Law, you work directly with our office — not a call center. We handle injury cases across Arkansas, we know the local courts, and we prepare every case thoroughly so the insurance company takes it seriously. If you've been injured in a car accident, we'll review your situation for free and tell you honestly where you stand.
Injured in a crash? Call (870) 793-7556 for a free consultation — or use the contact form and we'll reach out to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to report a car accident in Arkansas? Yes. Arkansas requires you to report any accident involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Always call the police to the scene so an official report is created.
Should I go to the doctor if I feel fine after a crash? Yes. Serious injuries like whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries can take days to show symptoms. A prompt medical visit protects your health and connects your injuries to the accident.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Arkansas? The statute of limitations for most Arkansas personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident, though some claims have different deadlines. Speak with an attorney early to protect your rights.
Do I have to give the other driver's insurance company a recorded statement? No. You are not required to give the at-fault driver's insurer a recorded statement. It's usually best to talk to your own attorney before speaking with any insurance adjuster.
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer? Most personal injury attorneys, including our office, offer a free initial consultation and handle injury cases on a contingency basis — meaning you generally pay attorney's fees only if you recover. Ask about the specifics during your consultation.