Best Car Accident Lawyers in Fort Smith

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fort Smith, Arkansas?

  For non-emergency Forth Smith concerns, call (479)709-5000. The call will connect you to a police dispatcher, records department personnel, an animal warden, or a detective who will respond to your questions.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Fort Smith, Arkansas?

  The Fort Smith Police Department keeps an online database of all accident police records. To locate and obtain a copy of the incident report, go to https://www.fortsmithpd.org/index.php/how-do-i/find-an-incident-report. Prepare the following information: the incident date and the case number. To obtain a vehicle accident report, go to https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/ui/report/search?state=AR&jurisdiction=Fort%20Smith%20Police%20Department.

• How does auto coverage work in Fort Smith?

  Fort Smith follows a traditional fault-based system in cases relating to who is liable to cover expenses for injuries and other damages. Assume you were hurt in a car accident caused by a careless driver. In that case, the at-fault party's insurance provider will be responsible for covering your financial needs up to the policy limits. At the very least, you are entitled to coverage for the following: $25,000 covers bodily injuries or property damage, while $50,000 covers total bodily injury or death.

• Does Fort Smith have a statute of limitations for car accident claims?

  Yes, according to the Arkansas Code § 16-56-105, a Fort Smith local involved in a car accident is allowed to take legal action and claim compensation within three years, starting from the day of the collision. However, it is advised that if you want to achieve the best possible outcomes, including obtaining maximum compensation, proceed to resolve your legal situation immediately as you can.

• What is the annual average number of car accidents in Fort Smith?

  According to the most recent Arkansas State Police report, nearly 7,454 car accidents occur in Fort Smith each year. Over the last decade, public roads in Arkansas have seen an average of 66,000 crashes per year, 47,000 injuries per year, 628 crash fatalities per year, and 210 alcohol-related crash fatalities per year.

• Who should you call first after a car accident in Fort Smith?

  The emergency number, 911, should always be your first call. The call operator can assist in determining the types of immediate assistance in a Fort Smith car accident. The call operator may contact the ambulance to provide emergency medical services, the police to draft the official incident report, and the fire department to mitigate any pending fire hazard on your behalf.

• How should you interact with Fort Smith police officers after a car accident?

  When speaking with the Fort Smith police officer, be polite, truthful, and cooperative in answering all questions about the car accident. However, avoid admitting fault or making assumptions about how the accident occurred. Allow the police to conduct an investigation into the incident. The police report will be an important document that can be used to defend and compensate the negligent driver. If you disagree with the police report, you should immediately consult with an attorney.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.