A car accident caused by a distracted driver can leave you reeling—physically, emotionally, and financially. Even a quick glance at a phone or a moment of daydreaming can trigger a crash, turning your daily routine into a nightmare of medical bills, lost wages, and months of recovery.

What Exactly Is Distracted Driving in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, “any action that diverts a driver’s attention from the road” is illegal when behind the wheel, including texting, dialing, browsing social media, and even adjusting navigation or stereo controls. Law enforcement can pull you over solely for holding or using a handheld device.

Why Are These Crashes So Damaging?

When a driver looks away for just five seconds at 55 miles per hour, they travel nearly 400 feet blind—longer than a football field. That split second of inattention can turn routine trips into life-altering events, and the victims of these sorts of accidents often face traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, broken bones, and internal injuries.

How Do I Protect My Health After a Crash?

No matter how you feel, you should always seek medical attention right away. Soft-tissue injuries and concussions may not show symptoms until hours or days later, and an early diagnosis ensures the best outcome for you and creates vital medical records for your case, documenting injuries before insurance adjusters or defense lawyers attempt to downplay your claim.

How Much Compensation Could I Receive?

Compensation varies by injury severity, medical costs, lost income, and emotional trauma. Keep in mind that Arkansas uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule: If you share fault, the court will reduce your compensation amount by your percentage of blame. 

What Evidence Should I Gather?

Photograph all vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries, and keep all medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurers. Collect contact information for witnesses and get a copy of the police report—these details can strengthen your claim by showing exactly what happened and who was involved.

What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid?

Never admit fault at the accident scene, even if you think you may have contributed to the crash. Avoid accepting quick settlement offers without consulting a lawyer, as initial offers are often far below what your case is worth. Do not delay medical treatment or skip follow-up appointments, as gaps in care can harm your claim and your recovery.

When Should I Talk to a Lawyer?

Contact a lawyer as soon as possible—ideally before giving a recorded statement to the insurance company. Arkansas law gives you three years from the crash date to file a personal injury lawsuit, but sooner is always better.

How Long Will My Case Take?

Every case is unique. Simple fender-benders may wrap up in a few months, while serious injury claims often take a year or more. Insurers in Arkansas have 45 working days to investigate your claim, but complex investigations into fault and damages can extend that timeline. 

Get the Legal Help You Need After Your Crash With a Fayetteville Car Accident Lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm

The legal aftermath of a distracted driving collision can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go it alone. A Fayetteville car accident lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm has experience representing personal injury clients, defending their rights, and working toward maximum compensation for them. To schedule a free consultation, call today at 479-443-8080 or fill out our online form. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.