Get Expert Legal Representation

The insurance company will likely try to settle with you quickly, pressuring you to sign the paperwork before you are ready. Before signing your rights away, call the Law Offices of Miller & Mallett to speak with a car accident lawyer in Little Rock. We would be happy to learn more about your experience and walk you through your potential options. The insurance company is not looking out for your interests, but we would be grateful to be your trusted advocate.

Access Comprehensive Legal Support

The Miller & Mallett team understands the challenges faced by accident victims and their families – we’ve been there too. We are here to be your compassionate guide through the legal system, always advocating vigorously for your rights. From investigating the cause of the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and litigating in court, we are ready to fight for you.

No Two Car Accidents Are Exactly Alike

Every car accident comes with its own set of complex circumstances and legal considerations. That’s why it is vital to have a legal professional on your side looking out for your interests. The insurance company will not take care of you. We will make sure they have to. Some common types of car accidents we handle include:

Rear-End Collisions 

These accidents occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle. Rear-end collisions can cause whiplash, spinal injuries, and other serious injuries.

T-Bone Accidents

Also known as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents occur when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle. These accidents can result in severe injuries, especially for passengers on the side of the impacted vehicle.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions involve two vehicles crashing into each other front-end to front-end. These accidents are among the most severe and can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to exchange information or render aid. Our attorneys can help victims of hit-and-run accidents pursue compensation through their own insurance policies or pursue other legal avenues.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents

Also known as pile-ups or chain-reaction accidents, multi-vehicle accidents involve three or more vehicles colliding with each other in rapid succession. These accidents can result in complex legal proceedings involving multiple parties and insurance companies.

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Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering trauma. Some of the most common injuries our clients experience include the following:

  • Whiplash: A neck injury caused by the sudden jerking motion of the head, often resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
  • Spinal Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord or vertebrae can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, or even paralysis.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries caused by blunt force impact can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, impacting memory, cognition, and daily function.
  • Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis are common in high-impact accidents and may require surgery and lengthy recovery periods.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause significant pain and limit mobility, often requiring physical therapy.
  • Internal Injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but require urgent medical attention.
  • Facial Injuries: Cuts, bruises, and facial fractures can result from airbags, shattered glass, or dashboard impact.

Long-Term Effects of Car Accident Injuries

Chronic Pain

Injuries like whiplash, nerve damage, or spinal injuries may lead to persistent discomfort that requires ongoing treatment.

Emotional Trauma

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common after a traumatic accident and can affect personal relationships and mental well-being.

Financial Strain

The combination of medical bills, lost income, and ongoing care can lead to significant financial hardships.

Disability

Severe injuries can result in partial or total disability, impacting your ability to work or perform daily activities. Traumatic brain injuries can cause problems with memory or performing every day tasks.

Loss of Earning Capacity

Permanent injuries or disabilities may prevent you from returning to your previous job or any employment.

Rehabilitation Costs

Long-term physical therapy, counseling, or adaptive equipment may be necessary to regain a semblance of normalcy.

Seeking Compensation

After a car accident, victims may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Property/car damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement

Our Little Rock car accident attorneys work diligently to assess the full extent of our client's damages and pursue maximum compensation on their behalf. We understand the financial strain that car accidents can place on victims and their families, and we are committed to helping them recover the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. Remember, we don’t get paid unless and until you get your settlement. We are here to relieve your stress, not add another bill to the pile.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the compensation you need for your injuries and losses. We’d love to invite you to visit us at our unique and beautiful office: a 9,000-square-foot Victorian mansion in historic downtown Little Rock. We hope to show you why they call us “the Firm with a Smile!”

Reasons to Hire a Car Accident Attorney

While it's possible to navigate a car accident claim without an attorney, here are just a few reasons why you should hire one:

  • Expert Negotiation Skills: Benefit from a lawyer's ability to negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
  • Legal Expertise: Navigate complex legal procedures and statutes that may affect your case.
  • Maximize Compensation: Increase your chances of obtaining maximum compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
  • Evidence Gathering: Access to resources and experience gathering crucial evidence to support your claim.
  • Focus on Recovery: Allow yourself the time and space to focus on your recovery while your attorney handles the legal aspects of your case.
  • Avoid Common Pitfalls: Avoid common pitfalls and mistakes that could jeopardize your claim or result in lower compensation.
  • Personalized Guidance: Receive customized guidance and advocacy tailored to your specific situation and needs.
  • Comprehensive Representation: Ensure solid legal representation if your case goes to court.
  • Peace of Mind: You can gain peace of mind knowing that your rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process.
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What Should You Do If You’re in a Car Wreck?

As mom used to say, “An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure.” While we all hope to avoid having a car accident, it makes sense to have a plan should one occur. Sit down with your family and commit to following these steps together should you ever be involved in a car accident, even one that initially seems relatively minor.

This advice can help protect your legal rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. 

Step One:

CALL 9-1-1 OR THE POLICE AND REPORT THE COLLISION IMMEDIATELY.

It's crucial to call emergency services right away, especially if there are serious injuries, as prompt medical attention can be life-saving. Additionally, having the police at the scene ensures a detailed police report is filed. This report documents important details about the accident, such as the location, time, and parties involved, which can be essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Step Two:

TAKE PHOTOS OF THE COLLISION.

Documenting the accident scene with photographs is vital for preserving evidence. Take clear photos from multiple angles showing:

  • The position of the vehicles
  • Any visible damage
  • Road conditions
  • Traffic signs or signals
  • Any relevant environmental factors (like weather conditions)

If you're unable to take photos due to injuries, ask someone at the scene to do it for you.

Step Three: 

WRITE DOWN THE NAMES AND PHONE NUMBERS OF ANY WITNESSES.

Witnesses can provide valuable testimony about how the accident occurred and who was at fault. While the police may collect witness information, it's wise to gather this yourself as well. Witness statements can corroborate your version of events and strengthen your insurance claim or legal case if needed.

Step Four: 

GET THE OTHER DRIVER'S INSURANCE INFORMATION.

Exchange insurance information with all drivers involved in the accident. Be sure you get the following:

  • Their insurance company's name
  • Policy number
  • Contact information

Step Five: 

GET THE POLICE REPORT NUMBER.

Request the police officer's name and badge number at the scene, and obtain the police report number as soon as it's available, usually within a few days after the accident. The police report provides an official record of the accident investigation, including:

  • The officer's assessment of fault
  • Witness statements
  • Other pertinent details

Step Six:

CALL MILLER & MALLETT.

Contacting an experienced personal injury attorney promptly after a car accident is essential to protect your rights and interests. Here’s how a skilled car accident attorney in Little Rock at Miller & Mallett can help you:

  • We can provide immediate guidance on how to handle interactions with insurance companies
  • We’ll advise you on preserving evidence and begin building a strong case on your behalf
  • We’ll also advocate for your maximum compensation, whether through negotiation or litigation, ensuring that you receive the financial recovery you deserve

Steps to Dealing With Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be overwhelming. Follow these steps to protect your rights and avoid being taken advantage of:

  1. Report the Accident: Notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible, providing basic details without admitting fault. Your insurance company can help resolve your property damage and get you back on the road sooner.
  2. Consult an Attorney: Before signing anything, speak with a lawyer. Car accident cases often have a lot of moving parts. The insurance companies are not looking out for your best interest, but their bottom line. They often start with a quick, low offer to get you to settle early so they do not have to pay for all of your damages. At Miller & Mallett, we work for YOU, not the insurance company, and work to maximize your compensation.
  3. Document Everything: Keep records of medical bills, repair estimates, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses. It’s also helpful to keep a journal of what you experience physically and emotionally.
  4. Avoid Giving Recorded Statements: The insurance adjuster may ask for a recorded statement, but it’s best to decline until you consult an attorney. Often what you say can be used against you at a future date.
  5. Don’t Accept the First Offer: Initial settlement offers are often low and may not cover the full extent of your damages.
  6. Stay Persistent: Insurance companies may delay or deny claims, but with the right representation, you can fight for the compensation you deserve.

The team at Miller & Mallett has extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies. Let us handle the complexities so you can focus on your recovery.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in Arkansas

In Arkansas, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This time frame, known as the statute of limitations, is critical for preserving your right to seek compensation. Failing to file within this period may result in the court dismissing your case, leaving you without legal recourse.

Exceptions to this timeline may apply in specific circumstances, such as cases involving minors. Contacting an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible is crucial to protect your rights. At Miller & Mallett, we’ll ensure all deadlines are met and help you build a strong case for your claim.

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Arkansas Car Insurance Laws

In Arkansas, drivers are required to carry minimum car insurance coverage to protect themselves and others on the road. These minimums include:

  • $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person per accident
  • $50,000 per accident for bodily injury or death for all involved (Example, there are 4 people in a car and everyone is injured. The most one person can get is $25,000, and the insurance company will not pay more than $50,000 divided between all four people.)
  • $25,000 for property damage per accident

These are the minimum requirements. People can often have more in coverage. In addition to these mandatory coverages, Arkansas law requires uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage and medical payments coverage unless you reject it in writing. While UM/UIM and Med Pay coverage isn’t mandatory, it’s highly recommended as it provides financial protection if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance.

Arkansas is an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for covering damages. This system makes it essential to have adequate insurance and legal representation if disputes arise.

Car Accident FAQ

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Arkansas?

Will I have to go to court for my car accident case?

How is fault determined in Arkansas car accidents?

What if I was injured by a drunk driver?

What if the car accident resulted in a wrongful death?

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may provide compensation. As your attorneys, we can help you navigate these claims.

How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit (statute of limitations).

Will I have to go to court for my car accident case?

Many cases are settled out of court, but your lawyer will prepare to litigate if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

How is fault determined in Arkansas car accidents?

Arkansas follows a 'modified comparative fault' rule, which means that your compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault.

What if I was injured by a drunk driver?

You may be entitled to punitive damages in addition to compensation for your injuries.

What if the car accident resulted in a wrongful death?

Family members of the deceased may file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for their loss.

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

Your lawyer can help appeal the denial or pursue legal action to secure the compensation you deserve.

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