Posted on Saturday, February 21st, 2026 at 5:36 pm
After a car accident in Fort Smith, knowing the right steps protects your health and legal rights. This guide walks you through what to do after a car accident in Fort Smith, AR. We cover everything from the immediate moments after impact to filing your claim and seeking legal guidance. Whether you’re dealing with minor property damage or serious injuries, McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm provides the legal guidance you need to protect your rights.
Why Choose McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm for Your Car Accident Case
When you’re injured in a car accident, you need an attorney who understands Fort Smith’s roads and Arkansas law. McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm has helped accident victims throughout Fort Smith recover compensation. Our team handles every aspect of your case. We gather evidence and negotiate with insurers. This lets you focus on healing. Call (479) 783-0036 today for a free consultation.
Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your immediate priority after a car accident is safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 right away if anyone is hurt. Also, call 911 if the accident caused significant property damage.
If you can safely move your vehicle out of traffic, do so. Turn on your hazard lights. If you cannot move your vehicle safely, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened. Wait for emergency responders. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends staying in your vehicle if it’s unsafe to exit.
Injuries Often Develop Later
Even if you feel fine, injuries from car accidents often develop hours or days later. Adrenaline can mask pain. Call 911 if anyone reports pain, difficulty breathing, or visible injuries. Emergency responders will assess everyone at the scene. They provide immediate medical care if needed.
Common delayed injuries include whiplash, concussions and brain injuries, and internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Exchange Information with Other Drivers
Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, exchange information with the other driver. Collect:
- Their full name, phone number, and address
- Driver’s license number and issuing state
- Vehicle make, model, color, and license plate number
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Passenger contact information (if applicable)
If witnesses saw the accident, get their names and phone numbers. Witnesses provide valuable statements about how the accident happened. This is especially important if the other driver disputes fault. Witness testimony can be critical in establishing liability in your case. Strong witness statements often determine the outcome of insurance claims.
Document the Accident Scene
Take photos and videos of the accident scene while you’re still there. Photograph:
- Damage to all vehicles from multiple angles
- Surrounding area, traffic signs, and traffic lights
- Road conditions and weather
These photos serve as evidence for your claim or lawsuit. Documentation at the scene is one of the most important steps you can take to support your case. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends thorough documentation of accident scenes. Proper documentation can significantly impact insurance claims.
Important: Do not post these photos on social media. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys monitor social media accounts. Posts can be used against you in your claim or lawsuit.
Report the Accident to Police
In Arkansas, you must report a car accident to police if damage exceeds $3,000 or if anyone is injured (Ark. Code Ann. § 27-53-202).
The police officer will create an accident report… This report is a critical document that supports your insurance claim.
Request the police report number before leaving the scene. You’ll need this number to obtain a copy of the full report. Keep this report with your other accident documents. The Federal Highway Administration provides resources on accident documentation standards.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurance policies have strict deadlines requiring you to notify them of an accident ‘promptly’ or ‘within a reasonable time.’ Failing to do so could jeopardize your coverage.
Provide accurate information about what happened. Do not admit fault or speculate about the cause. Stick to the facts: time, location, vehicles involved, and injuries.
Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to investigate your claim. Understanding how insurance claims work can help you navigate the process more effectively. The Insurance Information Institute provides resources on the claims process.
Keep records of all conversations with your insurance company. Note the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with. Save copies of all documents they send you. This includes claim forms and settlement offers. Proper documentation supports your pain and suffering damages claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Visit a doctor or urgent care clinic within a few days of the accident. Do this even if you feel fine. Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. These include whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries.
A medical professional can identify injuries you might not notice. Keep all medical records, test results, and receipts. These documents prove the extent of your injuries. They support your insurance claim. The American Medical Association emphasizes the importance of prompt medical evaluation after accidents.
Follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations. Attend all follow-up appointments. Complete prescribed therapy. Insurance companies use gaps in medical treatment to argue that your injuries weren’t serious. Lost wages and ongoing treatment costs are recoverable damages. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidance on injury recovery timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Fort Smith?
Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Move to safety if possible. Exchange information with the other driver and witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage. Call the police if required. Contact your insurance company and seek medical attention.
How long do I have to file a claim in Arkansas?
Arkansas law gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, report your accident to your insurance company immediately. Insurance companies have strict deadlines for filing claims. Arkansas Code § 23-85-110 requires written notice within 20 days. Your specific policy may require notice within 24-48 hours.
Should I post about my accident on social media?
No. Do not post about your accident, your injuries, or your claim on social media. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys monitor social media. Posts can be taken out of context. They may be used to argue that your injuries aren’t serious or that you were partially at fault.
When should I contact a car accident attorney?
Contact an attorney if you’re injured. Also, contact an attorney if the other driver was clearly at fault. Contact us if the insurance company denies your claim. Also, contact us if you disagree with their settlement offer. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company. We can file a lawsuit if necessary. Many attorneys offer free consultations. You can discuss your case without cost.
What information do I need to exchange with the other driver?
Get the other driver’s full name, phone number, and address. Record their driver’s license number and state. Write down their vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate. Get their insurance company name and policy number. If possible, take a photo of their driver’s license and insurance card.
Contact McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm for Legal Guidance
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Fort Smith, McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm is here to help. Our attorneys understand Arkansas car accident law. We know how to handle insurance companies. We’ll review your case and answer your questions. We fight for the compensation you deserve. Call (479) 783-0036 today for your free consultation. We’re ready to help you recover.
