• Stop Your Car

If your car is involved in an accident & you don't stop, you may be subject to criminal  prosecution . Leave your car as close as possible to the place of impact without obstructing traffic.

• Get Help for the Injured

Life & health are more important than damage to vehicles or property. Give first aid if you are qualified and call an ambulance. If emergency assistance is needed call 911(if this service is available in your area).

• Protect the Scene

Even if the accident is minor, the police should be notified. Call the nearest city poice department if the accident occurred inside the city limits, sheriff's office or state police, if outside the city limits, to obtain assistance in investigating and reporting an accident. A police report of the accident will help document your insurance claim and any liability claims. Be honest and cooperative with the investigating police officer in giving the facts, but do not admit fault. If you receive a traffic ticket, it does not mean you are guilty of a traffic offense or that you are responsible for the accident. Consult your lawyer and insurance agent before pleading guilty to any traffic offense.

• IMPORTANT: Do Not Admit Responsibility

When you exchange information with the other driver and give facts to the police, do not admit responsibility for the accident. Things you say can be used against you if there is litigation. You may think that you were responsible for the accident and later learn the other driver caused it or was equally at fault.

• Exchange Information & Diagram of Scene

Exchange information with the driver of the other car, any passengers or witnesses.
Before leaving the scene of the accident note the location of the vehicles, layout of roadway, street signs and traffic signals. Make notes about the time of day, weather and road conditions, and length of skid marks.

• File An Accident Report

In Arkansas, if anyone is injured or killed in an accident, or if the property damage exceeds $500, a written report must be submitted within 30 days to the Financial Responsibility Unit. Your insurance agent should have this form and will help you make this filing. Failure to file an accident report may result in fine and loss of your driver's license.

• Notify Your Insurance Agent

Call your insurance agent as soon as possible after an accident. Your insurance company may have grounds to deny coverage if you fail to give prompt notice of the accident. Do not give your insurance agent or anyone else a written record or statement.

• Call a Competent Lawyer

You should get advice about your rights and responsibilities from an experienced personal injury attorney. Don't make the mistake of calling the first lawyer you see on TV or a lawyer who sends you a letter asking to represent you. Be sure your lawyer is qualified. The sooner you call a lawyer, the better. The decisions you make immediately after the accident may determine whether you are able to make a fair recovery for your damages.