A Practical, Step-by-Step Guide for Arkansas Injury Victims
Accidents happen in an instant—but the decisions you make in the minutes and hours afterward can shape everything that follows: your physical recovery, your insurance claim, and even the strength of a future personal injury case. Whether you were involved in a car crash on I-630, a collision along Rodney Parham, or a serious injury downtown, knowing what to do can protect both your health and your rights.
Below, we break down the essential steps to take after an accident in Little Rock and explain why each step matters under Arkansas law. We also highlight how the legal team at Pfeifer Law Firm—led by Little Rock injury attorney Paul Pfeifer—supports victims through every stage of the recovery and claims process.
1. Prioritize Safety and Call 911 Immediately
The very first thing you should do after any accident is protect yourself and others from further harm. If possible, move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic, turn on hazard lights, and check for injuries. Even if the collision seems minor or you “feel fine,” call 911 so that the police and medical responders can assess the scene.
In Arkansas, having an official accident report is often crucial when dealing with insurance companies. Without it, insurers may claim the crash wasn’t serious or dispute how it occurred. A police report anchors your version of events in an objective record.
2. Seek Medical Attention — Even If Symptoms Seem Mild
Many injuries—especially whiplash, concussions, soft-tissue damage, and internal injuries—don’t produce immediate symptoms. Adrenaline masks pain. In some cases, symptoms take hours or days to appear.
Getting checked by a paramedic or emergency physician right away does two important things:
- Protects your health. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.
- Creates a medical record. This documentation is essential if you later pursue a personal injury claim.
If you delay treatment, the insurance company may argue that you weren’t really injured or that something else caused your condition. Immediate medical care shuts down those arguments before they begin.
3. Document the Accident Scene Thoroughly
Evidence fades quickly. Vehicles get moved, road debris is cleared, and weather can distort conditions. You can preserve essential information by capturing:
- Photos of damage to all vehicles
- Close-ups of injuries
- Skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs
- The positions of the vehicles before they’re moved
- Weather and lighting conditions
- Photos of any hazards (potholes, blind turns, debris, etc.)
If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Independent witnesses often provide clarity when drivers disagree about what happened.
This type of evidence often proves critical in cases handled by Pfeifer Law Firm, which regularly represents clients injured in Little Rock car accidents. Reviewing the firm’s past case results shows how strong evidence can influence outcomes.
4. Exchange Information — But Be Careful What You Say
Arkansas law requires drivers to exchange basic information, including:
- Name and contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle license plate numbers
However, keep the conversation polite but minimal. Avoid apologizing or making statements like “I didn’t see you” or “It was partly my fault.” Even offhand comments can be used by insurers to reduce or deny your claim.
Arkansas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means your compensation can be reduced if insurers argue you were partially responsible. Protect yourself by sticking to the facts.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Most insurance policies require prompt reporting. Provide the basics, but don’t offer detailed statements or accept fault. If the insurance adjuster requests a recorded statement, politely decline until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
Accident victims are often surprised by how quickly adjusters push for statements or pressure them to accept early settlements. Insurance companies aim to limit payouts; you deserve time to understand the full extent of your injuries and damages.
6. Preserve All Evidence and Records
Start keeping a file with:
- Medical records and bills
- Prescription and treatment receipts
- Rental car or transportation expenses
- Photos and videos
- A daily pain and recovery journal
- Pay stubs or documentation of missed work
This documentation helps quantify damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It also helps your attorney build a comprehensive case should you pursue compensation.
7. Avoid Posting on Social Media
Posts, photos, and comments may be taken out of context and used to undermine your claim. Even seemingly harmless content—like going out to dinner—can be misinterpreted by insurers as evidence you’re not seriously injured.
Until your case is resolved, assume that insurers are monitoring your digital presence.
8. Speak With an Experienced Little Rock Personal Injury Attorney
While not every accident requires legal representation, speaking with a lawyer can make a measurable difference—especially when:
- You suffered injuries
- The other driver denies fault
- Multiple vehicles were involved
- A commercial vehicle was involved
- Insurance companies are delaying or disputing your claim
Paul Pfeifer, founder of Pfeifer Law Firm, has decades of experience representing accident victims across Arkansas. You can learn more about his background and approach through his attorney profile here: Paul Pfeifer – Little Rock Personal Injury Lawyer.
The firm’s track record includes successful outcomes for clients injured in car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents. Reviewing the firm’s case results demonstrates the level of preparation and advocacy brought to each case.
Why Quick Action Matters Under Arkansas Law
Arkansas accident victims benefit when they take immediate steps after a crash because:
1. Evidence is strongest early.
Officers’ observations, witness statements, and photos taken right after the crash provide the clearest picture of what happened.
2. Delays can hurt your claim.
Failing to seek medical care or report the accident promptly gives insurers room to argue your injuries aren’t connected to the crash.
3. Arkansas’s statute of limitations applies.
In Arkansas, accident victims typically have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit. That timeline can shorten in certain cases. Early action ensures you don’t lose rights simply because of deadlines.
Injured in a Little Rock Accident? Take the Right Next Step—Contact Pfeifer Law Firm Today
If you’ve just been through an accident and are unsure of what to do next, you don’t have to navigate the confusion alone. Pfeifer Law Firm can guide you through the exact steps that protect your health, your rights, and your potential claim.
Whether you need help dealing with insurance companies, understanding your legal options, or determining what to do immediately after a Little Rock accident, our team is ready to support you from day one. Reach out today for a free consultation and get clarity on your next move.