Understanding Arkansas Car Accident Laws: What Every Driver Should Know

A car accident can happen in seconds—but the legal consequences can last for months or even years. Whether you’re recovering from injuries or dealing with insurance companies, understanding your rights under Arkansas car accident laws is crucial. At Lemley Law Partners, we’re committed to helping you make sense of the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Here’s what every driver in Arkansas should know after a crash.

1. Arkansas Is an “At-Fault” State

In Arkansas, the at-fault driver (or their insurance company) is responsible for paying damages caused in a car accident. This includes:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Vehicle repairs or replacement
• Pain and suffering

If you’re injured and someone else caused the crash, you have the right to file a claim against their insurance—or file a lawsuit if necessary.

2. Comparative Fault: What Happens If You're Partly to Blame?

Arkansas follows a rule called modified comparative fault. This means:

• You can still recover compensation if you're less than 50% at fault for the accident.
• However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you are found 20% at fault and your total damages are $100,000, you would recover $80,000. But if you’re 50% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovery altogether.

3. You Have Limited Time to File a Claim

Like most states, Arkansas has a statute of limitations that limits how long you have to take legal action:

• 3 years from the date of the accident for personal injury or property damage claims.

If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation, regardless of how strong your case is. That’s why it's important to act quickly.

4. What to Do at the Scene of the Crash

Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can protect your health—and your case. Here’s what to do:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Get medical attention, even for minor injuries
• Take photos of the scene, damage, and visible injuries
• Exchange information with the other driver
• Get contact details for any witnesses
• Avoid admitting fault at the scene
• Contact a car accident attorney before speaking with insurers

5. Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters often seem helpful—but their goal is to save their company money. Common tactics include:

• Offering a low settlement quickly
• Asking for recorded statements
• Delaying or denying valid claims

You don’t have to face this process alone. Legal guidance can help ensure your claim reflects the full impact of your injuries—not just what the insurance company is willing to pay.

6. Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Depending on your case, you may be eligible for compensation related to:

• Emergency room and hospital bills
• Physical therapy and long-term treatment
• Lost wages or reduced earning ability
• Pain and emotional distress
• Vehicle damage or loss
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Each case is unique, and the amount of compensation will depend on the severity of the injuries and how the accident has affected your life.



We’re Here to Help Arkansas Drivers Move Forward

If you’ve been injured in a car crash in Little Rock or anywhere in Arkansas, don’t navigate the legal system alone. At Lemley Law Partners, we work tirelessly to help injured drivers get back on their feet with confidence.