Little Rock Truck Accident Lawyer
Dedicated Truck Accident Lawyers in Little Rock, Arkansas
In Arkansas, our main roads are frequently used by large commercial trucks, semis, and tractor-trailers, transporting goods in and out of the state. Across the U.S., 71 percent of all goods are moved by the commercial trucking industry. However, with this constant flow of freight, truck accidents are a common occurrence in both Arkansas and the rest of the country. In 2019, federal truck accident data from the FMCSA reported that large commercial trucks were involved in 60,744 injury crashes and 4,805 fatal crashes. If you or a loved one has been in an accident with one of these massive trucks, you’re likely familiar with the severe injuries and damage they can cause. You shouldn’t handle a claim against a commercial company on your own. At Pfeifer Law Firm, a knowledgeable Little Rock truck accident lawyer understands the intricacies of these cases and can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
The Dangers of Semi-Truck Accidents in Arkansas
Truck drivers operate under immense pressure to transport loads within strict deadlines. Unfortunately, this creates various hazardous conditions that can endanger everyone on the road. Although many truck accidents are caused by the same factors as other motor vehicle crashes, there are certain risks that are unique to the trucking industry, such as:
- Driver fatigue
- Driver distraction or impairment
- Poor maintenance of the truck
- Improper loading and securing of cargo
- Hours of service violations and other FMCSA infractions
Even though the trucking industry is among the most heavily regulated in the United States, drivers and their employers often break regulations in an attempt to meet unrealistic deadlines. When this happens, everyone on the road is at risk.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Arkansas, our experienced Little Rock truck accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate the incident and pursue compensation for all potential points of liability. You can also consult with a Little Rock auto accident lawyer for further assistance.
Very satisfied of the outcome!
I am very satisfied of the outcome and all the great work Paul Pfeifer and his law firm has done. Even though I’m from Texas and they are in Arkansas we still got everything done and worked out as if we were in the same area. Not only did he do my case but my husband case also. Thank you again for e...
Christina Sessions
He was communicative, prompt and very thorough…
I hired Paul after a car accident a couple of years ago. Through the entire process, he was communicative, prompt and very thorough. I’m pleased with the outcome of my case and my experience working with Paul. I recommend him!
Kecia McCracken
Got me more than I expected.
It was first class all the way honest and respectful got me more than I expected kind and generous thanks a lot.
Willie Jones
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Truck Accidents Caused by Fatigue
Sleep deprivation is a leading cause of commercial trucking accidents in the U.S., with nearly half of all truck drivers admitting to falling asleep behind the wheel at some point.
Truck drivers in the U.S. operate under various agreements with freight companies. Many, known as “long-haulers,” are paid by the mile and often feel pressured to deliver freight as quickly as possible. Although federal laws regulate driving hours through Hours of Service rules, these regulations can be overlooked by drivers eager to cover more miles within tight deadlines.
Truck Accidents and Speeding
Speeding is another major contributor to trucking accidents in Arkansas. Due to their massive size, weight, and high center of gravity, semis may struggle to stop in time or may jackknife or roll over during emergencies. When excessive speed is involved, these risks become even more dangerous and potentially fatal.
At Pfeifer Law Firm, our experienced Little Rock truck accident lawyer is here to fight for you, working tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve after a serious truck accident.
How Much Is My Claim Worth? Understanding Compensation
After a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, including both economic and non-economic losses. A qualified attorney will help you fight for the maximum compensation possible, which may include:
✓ Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical bills, including hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
✓ Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: The wages you lost from time missed at work and the future income you may lose if your injuries prevent you from returning to your job.
✓ Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by your injuries.
✓ Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
Why Your Claim Is Different from a Car Accident
The legal framework for a truck accident claim is far more complex than for a typical car crash. Here are a few key differences:
✓ Multiple Liable Parties: In a car accident, liability is usually limited to the at-fault driver. In a truck accident, multiple parties may be responsible, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, or even the vehicle manufacturer.
✓ Federal and State Regulations: Commercial trucks are governed by a complex set of regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). A skilled attorney will investigate to determine if a violation of these regulations—such as a driver exceeding their hours of service or a company failing to maintain their fleet—contributed to the crash.
✓ Higher Stakes, Aggressive Defense: Due to the severe injuries and extensive damage caused by truck accidents, the insurance policies are often in the millions of dollars. This high financial exposure means insurance companies will fight aggressively to minimize their payout.
What’s Happening In AR with Truck Accidents As Of Recent?
Highly Specific 2024 Truck Accident Data for Arkansas:
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides a summary report with detailed numbers for Arkansas. This is the most valuable and specific information I found. You can use these exact numbers to create a new, authoritative table or graph.
- In 2024, there were 2,737 large trucks involved in all crashes in Arkansas.
- Of those, 80 trucks were involved in fatal crashes.
- This resulted in 79 fatalities and 1,096 injuries.
Recent Legislative Changes:
A new Arkansas law, Act 327 of 2025 (effective August 5, 2025), doubles fines for traffic violations in mobile work zones. Another new law, Act 209 of 2025, authorizes the use of green lights on ARDOT vehicles to improve visibility in work zones.
The Complexity of Truck Accident Liability
Truck accident claims are highly complex, with liability potentially falling on multiple parties. This could include the driver, the company that hired them, the company contracting the haul, or those responsible for maintaining the truck. Proving negligence often requires specialized expertise in investigating trucking accidents and understanding federal FMCSA regulations.
Though trucking companies carry large insurance policies, it’s important not to assume they have your best interests at heart. They don’t. Having an experienced Little Rock truck accident lawyer on your side is crucial to securing fair compensation for injuries caused by a truck accident.
What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
Immediately after a truck accident, prioritize safety. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911 for police and medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention promptly, as injuries may not be immediately apparent, and this creates vital medical records. Document the scene thoroughly by taking photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with all parties involved, including the truck driver's details and the trucking company's name and insurance information. Avoid admitting fault or discussing the incident with anyone other than law enforcement and medical personnel.
How is a truck accident claim different from a car accident claim?
Truck accident claims are significantly more complex than typical car accident claims due to several factors. They involve larger, heavier vehicles causing more severe injuries and property damage. Unlike car drivers, commercial truck drivers and trucking companies are governed by strict federal and state regulations (like FMCSA rules). Liability can extend beyond the driver to the trucking company, cargo loaders, or manufacturers, leading to multiple defendants. These cases often involve substantial insurance policies and aggressive defense teams, making legal navigation intricate and necessitating specialized legal expertise.
Who can be held responsible in a truck accident?
Liability in a truck accident often extends beyond just the truck driver. While the driver can be held responsible for negligence (e.g., distracted driving, speeding, fatigue), the trucking company can also be liable for their driver's actions under vicarious liability, or for their own negligence (e.g., improper hiring, inadequate training, poor vehicle maintenance). Other potentially liable parties include the truck or parts manufacturer for defects, the cargo loader for improper securing, or third-party maintenance providers. Determining all liable parties requires a thorough investigation of the accident's cause.
Learn about who is responsible by READING MORE.
What types of compensation can I receive after a truck accident?
Victims of truck accidents can pursue various types of compensation to cover their losses. These typically include "economic damages" such as past and future medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, medication), lost wages (current and future earning capacity due to injury), and property damage to your vehicle. "Non-economic damages" compensate for intangible losses like physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement. In rare cases of egregious misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the at-fault party.
More on compensation HERE.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those from truck accidents, is three years from the date of the accident. This means you typically have three years from the day the incident occurred to file a lawsuit in civil court. It is crucial to be aware of this deadline, as failing to file within this timeframe can result in losing your right to pursue compensation, regardless of the merits of your case. Certain specific circumstances might alter this timeframe, so prompt action is always advised.
Do I need an attorney to handle my truck accident case?
While you can technically handle a truck accident case yourself, it is highly recommended to hire an attorney. Truck accident cases are complex due to federal regulations, multiple potential liable parties, and the severe injuries involved. Trucking companies and their insurers have vast resources and experienced legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts. An attorney can conduct thorough investigations, gather crucial evidence (like black box data), interpret complex laws, negotiate effectively with aggressive adjusters, and build a strong case to ensure you receive fair compensation for all your damages.
CLICK HERE to learn more on why you need an attorney.
What should I say (and not say) to the insurance company after a truck accident?
This is a highly practical question that directly addresses a major concern for accident victims. It touches on the aggressive tactics of trucking company insurance adjusters and provides actionable advice. It is a common topic in the search results and is not covered by your existing list of questions, which are more about the legal process itself.
Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault for the truck accident?
This question is a deep dive into Arkansas's specific legal framework. It directly addresses the state's modified comparative negligence law (Arkansas Code § 16-64-122). This is a very specific, technical question that people are searching for and is a perfect fit for a blog post designed to demonstrate expertise and trustworthiness. Your existing questions address who can be held responsible in a general sense, but this question gets into the nuance of shared fault, which is a major concern for many people.
Seeking Legal Help from a Little Rock Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a large commercial truck, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney by your side for these complex claims. Contact the Little Rock truck accident lawyers at Pfeifer Law Firm by calling (501) 374-4440 or reach out via our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
