The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially on the busy roads of Little Rock, AR. Knowing the right steps to take after a car crash can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and ensuring your safety. From addressing visible injuries to handling insurance claims, every action you take matters.
Whether you’re dealing with vehicle damage or seeking medical attention, it’s crucial to follow Arkansas law and stay informed about your legal options. This guide outlines what you should do immediately after a car accident to navigate the situation effectively and protect your interests.
If you are involved in a car accident in Little Rock, the most important immediate steps are to secure the scene, seek medical attention, contact law enforcement, document the crash, notify your insurance company, and understand your legal options under Arkansas law.
Taking these actions promptly can protect your health, preserve critical evidence, and safeguard your right to compensation.
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially on busy Little Rock roadways. Knowing what to do in the moments and days following a crash can make a significant difference in both your recovery and any personal injury claim that may follow. This guide outlines the steps you should take immediately after a car accident to protect your safety and your legal rights.
Secure the Scene of the Accident Safely
Move to a Safe Location and Use Hazard Lights
After a car accident, your safety and the safety of others should come first. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. This is especially important on heavily traveled roads in Little Rock, such as Interstate 30 or Highway 67, where remaining in traffic lanes increases the risk of secondary collisions.
Turn on your hazard lights immediately to warn other drivers. If visibility is reduced due to rain, fog, or darkness, this step becomes even more critical. If your vehicle cannot be moved, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened until emergency responders arrive, unless it is unsafe to do so.
Check for Injuries and Call for Medical Help
Assess Visible and Serious Injuries
Once you are in a safe location, check yourself and others involved for injuries. Some injuries, including soft tissue injuries, internal injuries, or traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately obvious.
If anyone appears seriously injured, call 911 right away to request emergency medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, seeking medical attention promptly is essential. Symptoms such as whiplash, head trauma, or internal injuries may not appear until hours or days later. Delaying treatment can jeopardize your health and complicate a future personal injury claim.
Contact Law Enforcement and Follow Arkansas Law
When to Report a Car Accident
Arkansas law requires that car accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage be reported to law enforcement. Calling 911 ensures that officers respond to the scene and prepare an official accident report.
When speaking with the responding officer, provide clear and factual information about what occurred, including road conditions, weather, traffic signals, and vehicle positions. Avoid admitting fault or speculating about what caused the crash. The police report often becomes a critical piece of evidence in insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Document the Accident and Exchange Information
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are able, document the accident scene before leaving. Use your phone to take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, traffic signs, and the surrounding area. Capture weather and lighting conditions, as these details may help explain how the accident occurred.
Exchange information with the other driver, including:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
If there are witnesses, obtain their names and contact details. Independent witness statements can be critical when fault is disputed.
Seek Medical Treatment and Keep Records
Follow Through With Medical Care
After leaving the scene, continue to prioritize your health. Follow up with a medical provider even if you were evaluated by emergency responders. Diagnostic testing may be necessary to identify injuries that are not immediately apparent.
Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, including doctor visits, prescriptions, physical therapy, and related expenses. These records help establish the severity of your injuries and the financial impact of the accident.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide accurate information, but be cautious with recorded statements. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize claims or shift blame early in the process.
Review your policy coverage and limits carefully. If you encounter delays, denials, or settlement offers that do not reflect your losses, speaking with an experienced car accident lawyer can help protect your interests.
Understand Your Legal Options After a Car Accident
When to Speak With a Car Accident Attorney
Consulting a car accident attorney early can be critical, especially when injuries are involved or fault is disputed. An experienced lawyer can evaluate your case, explain how Arkansas law applies, and determine whether you may pursue a personal injury claim or lawsuit.
Pfeifer Law Firm has represented injured Arkansans for decades, handling car accident cases involving serious injuries, disputed liability, and insurance denials. Their attorneys understand how insurers approach claims in the Little Rock area and how to build strong cases supported by evidence.
Pursuing Fair Compensation
Compensation in a car accident claim may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In certain cases, punitive damages may be available when accidents involve reckless behavior such as drunk or distracted driving. Thorough documentation is essential to proving the full impact of the accident.
Why Choose Pfeifer Law Firm?
Pfeifer Law Firm represents clients throughout Little Rock and surrounding areas, including Hot Springs. Led by Paul Pfeifer, the firm focuses on car accident cases, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and wrongful death claims.
Clients benefit from personalized attention, detailed investigation, and strategic advocacy when dealing with insurance companies or preparing for litigation.
Get Started With a Free Case Evaluation
Pfeifer Law Firm offers a free case evaluation for individuals injured in car accidents. During this consultation, an experienced car accident attorney will review the facts of your case, explain your legal options, and outline how the firm can help pursue fair compensation.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
Recovering from a car accident can be physically and emotionally challenging. Taking the right steps early — securing the scene, seeking medical care, documenting evidence, and consulting legal counsel — can make a meaningful difference in your recovery and financial outcome.
Consult an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a car crash in Little Rock, understanding your legal options is essential to protecting your rights. Consulting an experienced car accident attorney is one of the most important steps you can take. A skilled attorney will evaluate the specific circumstances of your case, help you understand Arkansas law, and determine whether you are eligible to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit.
Having an experienced Little Rock car accident lawyer by your side helps ensure your rights are protected and positions you for the best possible result.