If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Northwest Arkansas, it’s essential to take specific steps to protect your well-being, legal rights, and potential insurance claims. Here are the three most important things to do after a car wreck from an experienced Northwest Arkansas car accident attorney:
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Safety First: Immediately after the accident, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 for emergency medical assistance. If it’s safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
Document Injuries: If you or anyone else is injured, seek medical attention promptly. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to have a medical professional assess them. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time.
Collect Information: While waiting for help to arrive, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved. Obtain their name, contact information, driver’s license number, insurance details, and vehicle information.
2. Report the Accident
Notify Law Enforcement: In Arkansas, you are required to report an accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Contact the local police or the Arkansas State Police to report the accident.
Document the Scene: If it’s safe to do so, take pictures and make notes about the accident scene. Capture vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any contributing factors like weather conditions or road hazards. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
File an Accident Report: If law enforcement doesn’t respond to the scene, you may need to file an accident report with the Arkansas Office of Driver Services within 30 days of the accident, especially if there were injuries or significant property damage.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company and Consider Talking to a Harrison Arkansas Car Accident Attorney
Contact Your Insurer: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible about the accident.
Consult an Attorney: If you were injured in the accident, it would be beneficial to consult with a Harrison personal injury lawyer experienced in Arkansas law. They can help protect your legal rights and guide you through the claims process, particularly if you believe you may be entitled to compensation for injuries, medical expenses, or property damage.
Preserve Evidence: Work with your Northwest Arkansas car accident attorney to gather and preserve evidence related to the accident, such as witness statements, medical records, and any available surveillance footage.
Remember that every car accident is unique, and the best course of action may vary based on the specific details of your case. Seeking medical attention, reporting the accident, and contacting your insurance company are generally the first steps to take.
However, for more personalized guidance and assistance, consult with an attorney who handles in car accidents in Arkansas. We can help you navigate the legal complexities and protect your interests.
Consult An Experienced Arkansas Car Accident Attorney
The Krebs Law Firm has the experience you need to back up your case and determine where the fault really lies. Get the compensation you rightly deserve with as little stress as possible. Call our office for a free consultation at (870) 741-8100 or toll free at 800-345-0535.
There’s no denying that it can be complicated trying to figure out how to properly handle insurance matters after an Arkansas car accident occurs.
That’s why it’s important to have someone on your side who knows the laws in Arkansas to get you the fair compensation that you’re entitled to. Look to the services of a professional injury attorney for peace of mind and maximum results. The Krebs Law Firm is here to help.
For more information about taking action after an accident, as well as great tips for protecting your rights, request a free copy of our book.
If you want more information about what you should do after an accident and learn more about common missteps (and how to avoid them) order your copy of our free book before you speak with another lawyer or anyone from the other drivers’ insurance company.
The situations where a victim would benefit from legal representation in a car accident claim far outnumber situations in which having an attorney is unnecessary. Fortunately, we are here to provide you with the assistance you need after a car accident in Arkansas. When you are ready to take the next steps, contact us at (870) 741-8100 for a free, no-obligation consultation from a car crash lawyer in Harrison Arkansas.