Every year, more than 30 million Americans visit emergency rooms due to injuries. These incidents can happen anywhere—on the road, at work, in stores, or even during a neighborhood walk. When someone else’s negligent actions cause your injury, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim.

What Is a Personal Injury Claim?

A personal injury claim arises when you’re harmed because another person failed to exercise reasonable care. Common types of personal injury claims include:

• Car accidents

• Truck accidents

• Bicycle and pedestrian accidents
• Slip and falls
• Dog bites
• Defective products
• Medical malpractice

You may have a valid claim if your injury has caused physical, emotional, or financial hardship.

What If My Injuries Seem Minor?

Even if your injuries seem mild, don’t ignore them. Some conditions—like whiplash, soft tissue damage, or traumatic brain injuries—may take time to show symptoms. Delaying medical care can put your health at risk and hurt your legal case. Insurance companies often try to use treatment delays to argue that your injuries aren’t related to the accident.

Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?

It’s always smart to speak with a lawyer after an accident. An experienced Fayetteville personal injury lawyer can protect your rights, evaluate your claim, and handle negotiations with insurers. You should definitely consult a lawyer if:

• You suffered serious or permanent injuries.
• Fault is disputed.
• The insurance company denies or undervalues your claim.
• You’re being pressured into a quick settlement.
• Multiple parties may be involved.

How Is Fault Proven?

To prove fault, you must show that another party was negligent and that their actions caused your injuries. Evidence like police reports, medical records, photos, witness statements, and expert testimony can support your case.

Should I Talk to the Insurance Company?

Be cautious when speaking to insurance companies. Their goal is to minimize payouts. Common tactics include offering quick, lowball settlements or using your statements against you later. Let your lawyer handle all communication to avoid jeopardizing your claim.

What Compensation Can I Receive?

You may be eligible for compensation such as:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Under Arkansas’ modified comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages if you’re less than 50% at fault—but your compensation will be reduced by your share of fault.

What Should I Do After an Injury?

After an accident, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

• Report the accident to the police or property owner.
• Take photos of the scene and your injuries.
• Gather witness contact info.
• Avoid making any statements about fault.
• Seek medical care immediately.
• Keep all records and a recovery journal.
• Speak to a personal injury lawyer before talking to insurers.

Get Help from a Fayetteville Personal Injury Lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm

At Wilmoth Law Firm, we fight for injured clients. Call a Fayetteville personal injury lawyer at 479-443-8080 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.