A strong car accident claim rests on evidence. The sooner you gather it, the better, because evidence fades fast after a crash.
Evidence About Fault
- Police reports. They record the officer’s observations and any citations.
- Photos and video. Pictures of the vehicles, the scene and road conditions help show what happened. Dash cameras and nearby security cameras can be valuable too.
- Witnesses. Names and phone numbers of people who saw the crash.
- Vehicle data. Many vehicles record speed and braking data.
Evidence About Injuries
Medical records show what injuries you had and what treatment you received. In addition, prompt care creates a clear link between the crash and your injuries. So don’t wait to see a doctor.
Evidence About Losses
- Medical bills, past and future
- Pay stubs and records of missed work
- Repair estimates or a total-loss valuation
- A journal of pain and how the injury affects daily life
Fault in an Arkansas Car Accident Claim
Arkansas uses a comparative fault rule (A.C.A. § 16-64-122). Your damages are reduced by your share of the fault, and you recover nothing if your fault is equal to or greater than the other driver’s. Therefore, evidence about who caused the crash matters a great deal.
Be Careful With Insurers
Insurance adjusters may ask for a recorded statement. However, what you say can be used to minimize your claim. Consider getting advice first.
Deadlines
Most Arkansas injury claims must be filed within three years (A.C.A. § 16-56-105). For more, see my car accident page.
Talk With a Jonesboro Lawyer
You can call the office at 870.525.2191. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, and Sara Beth or I will call you back. You can also request a consultation online. Consultations are free and usually last about 30 minutes, and I’ll explain how fees work for your kind of case before you decide anything.
This post is general information about Arkansas law, not legal advice for your situation.