Rear-End Collisions in Arkansas: Understanding Your Legal Rights
- The Brad Hendricks Law Firm
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Being involved in a rear-end collision can be a jarring, disorienting experience. Whether you were stopped at a traffic light on Cantrell Road or caught in slow-moving traffic on I-630, the aftermath often involves more than just a damaged bumper. At The Brad Hendricks Law Firm, we understand that these accidents frequently result in lasting physical and financial consequences.
Navigating the rules and regulations surrounding these crashes in Arkansas requires a clear understanding of your rights.
Understanding Liability in Arkansas for Rear End Collisions
In Arkansas, liability is determined based on the principle of comparative fault. This means that if you are injured in an accident, your ability to recover compensation depends on your percentage of fault. If you are found to be partially at fault, your total financial recovery will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
It is important to note that Arkansas law regarding the "seat belt defense" has evolved. Following legal developments such as Mendoza v. WIS International, Inc., evidence of a plaintiff's failure to wear a seat belt may be admissible in court. If a defendant can prove that your failure to use a seat belt exacerbated your injuries, it could potentially impact the amount of damages you are awarded.
Because insurance companies often look for ways to assign fault to the injured party, having experienced legal representation is critical to protecting your right to fair compensation.
Common Injuries Sustained in Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end collisions are notorious for causing "soft-tissue" injuries, particularly to the neck and back, even at low speeds. The sudden, forceful hyperextension followed by hyperflexion of the cervical spine is a primary mechanism for whiplash (Li et al., 2019).
Below is a breakdown of the most common injuries reported in these types of accidents:
Injury Type | Percentage |
Whiplash (Cervical Strain) | 70 |
Back/Spinal Injuries | 15 |
Concussions/Head Trauma | 10 |
Fractures/Other | 5 |
Whiplash-associated disorders are frequent and can lead to long-lasting pain and disability, with symptoms that may not appear until days after the initial impact.
How The Brad Hendricks Law Firm Can Help
When you are dealing with the physical pain and emotional stress of a collision, the last thing you need is the burden of navigating complex insurance negotiations or legal deadlines alone.
Our personal injury team is dedicated to:
Building a Strong Case:Â We gather essential evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to establish liability and document the full extent of your injuries.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies:Â Insurance adjusters often aim to settle quickly for the lowest possible amount. We fight to ensure your settlement covers your medical treatments, lost income, and the long-term impact on your quality of life.
Providing Compassionate Advocacy:Â We recognize that our clients are individuals trying to piece their lives back together, and we offer the comprehensive support needed during these challenging times.
If you have been injured in a rear-end collision, do not wait. Contact The Brad Hendricks Law Firm to discuss your case and ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process. Call or text us at 501-221-0444
References
Li, F., Liu, N.-s., Li, H.-g., Zhang, B., Tian, S.-w., Tan, M.-g., & Sandoz, B. (2019). A review of neck injury and protection in vehicle accidents. Transportation Safety and Environment, 1(2), 89–105. https://doi.org/10.1093/tse/tdz012