Some Common Questions After A Motor Vehicle Accident In Arkansas
Regulations regarding motor vehicle accidents are different in every state, and Arkansas is no exception. It is one of the 13 states under the 50% bar rule, also known as the comparative fault rule, which might complicate the process of receiving compensation to a certain extent.
We have prepared a set of common questions we have answered for our clients at Tellez Law Firm PLLC, hoping they may prove helpful for you or a loved one.
Can I still recover compensation if I am partially at fault for my Arkansas car accident?
You can still be entitled to compensation if you are not over 50% at fault for the accident. According to this rule, if authorities and insurance companies determine an individual was 50% liable for the accident, they will not be compensated. An experienced lawyer can help you build your case to protect your right to compensation based on solid evidence.
If I was not wearing a helmet at the time of my motorcycle accident, can I still recover damages for my injuries?
All motorcycle riders must wear helmets unless the rider is under 21 years of age. If you were involved in an accident and failed to wear a helmet, it could compromise your right to compensation under the Arkansas comparative fault rule.
What should I do if I was hit by an uninsured driver?
Since Arkansas is an at-fault state, you should first turn to your own insurance company to learn about your coverage. If your insurance policy includes liability coverage, then the uninsured motorist coverage will cover your damages. You can also sue the uninsured motorist, but an experienced attorney can help you define a course of action to meet your needs or let you know if it is even worth it to file a lawsuit.
Do I need to hire an attorney after a truck accident in Arkansas?
Although the decision to hire an attorney is personal, we advise having legal representation with you after a trucking accident. These accidents tend to be complex due to the scale of damage caused and injuries sustained. The situation might be complicated by determining whose insurance company should cover the damages. A trucking accident lawyer can protect your rights by assisting you in the process of filing your insurance claim.
How do I know if I should accept the insurance company’s settlement offer after a car crash?
First, you should be aware of what you are entitled to. A settlement should cover your past and present medical bills and future medical needs and treatments. Remember that you may seek additional compensation beyond your medical bills, such as compensation for lost wages, decreased earning capacity, noneconomical damages like loss of life enjoyment, just to mention a few. Insurance adjusters could be intimidating, but you may reject the settlement offered if you are unsure whether what you are receiving is fair. You can ask a personal injury lawyer for advice and guidance about what you are entitled to and what to do if your settlement offer is rejected.
What should I tell the insurance company about the car accident?
It is highly advisable to speak with a lawyer before talking to the insurance company. We will let you know what evidence you need in hand when you talk to the insurance company. After the accident, gather all evidence possible such as pictures, testimonials from witnesses and medical records. You must never admit you are at fault before any insurance company representative or an authority.
How can working with an Arkansas car accident attorney help my case?
An experienced car attorney accident can help you file a solid insurance claim and advise you on what your compensation/settlement should include. A car insurance lawyer also has strong negotiation skills to talk to insurance adjusters and authorities when required. An additional benefit is that a lawyer will help you define whether your legal needs can be solved through negotiation or require further action, such as going to the courts to seek justice. If you have more questions regarding your accident in Arkansas, we are happy to assist you in our Little Rock office.
Timely Legal Advice Can Make A Difference
If you have been approached by insurance agents or adjusters or are unsure about how to proceed after your accident, call 501-817-8124 to discuss your case and define the next steps in a free consultation. You can also reach us by filling out our online contact form. You pay our fees only if we recover compensation. Hablamos español.