Friday

Arkansas car accident stats and injuries

During 2011, there were more than 50,000 car accidents in Arkansas. More than 17,000 accidents resulted in serious injuries and more than 500 resulted in death while the others caused property damage. Car accident injuries are a constant source of concern and when you review the statistics provided regarding car accidents, it is frightening to review the causes of accidents.

Causes of accidents

Let's face it, regardless of the cause of an accident, the fact you are facing serious injuries or may have lost a loved one is devastating. However, when you look at many of the causes, it is immediately clear that many of these accidents could have been avoided. Some of the primary causes of accidents include:
  • Careless driving - in 2011, more than 17,000 accidents were caused by careless driving
  • Ignoring traffic signals - of the more than 50,000 accidents, more than 1,000 were caused because a driver ignored a traffic signal
  • Impaired driving - more than 1,800 accidents were caused by a drunk driver
  • Road conditions - more than 3,000 accidents were caused because a driver was going too fast for road conditions

When you are involved in an accident

There are some steps you must take after a car accident to ensure your safety as well as gather
evidence in the event the other driver is at fault.
  • Get to the side of the road - to ensure your safety it is imperative to get as close to the side of the road as possible. In most cases, if possible it is also a good idea to get out of your vehicle to avoid the potential it may be struck while parked
  • Notify law enforcement/paramedics - immediately contact the police and if necessary, place a secondary call to paramedics. In most cases, law enforcement officials will ensure medical care arrives at the scene
  • Document when possible - if you or someone in the vehicle is capable of doing so, document the scene of the accident immediately. Include information about road conditions, weather, traffic signals and if you noticed the other driver before the accident
  • Seek medical attention - even if you feel your injuries are minor, seek medical attention. This is critical as oftentimes after an accident, adrenaline will prevent your body from noticing pain
  • Avoid insurance adjusters - whatever you do, avoid speaking with an insurance adjuster. Keep in mind they are going to attempt to reach a quick settlement that will benefit only their bottom line
  • Contact an attorney - regardless of how minor your injuries might be, contact a personal injury attorney for a consultation. They know the personal injury laws in Arkansas far better than you do and they can help make sure your rights are protected
Keep in mind, most personal injury attorneys work on contingencies. If you are injured in an auto accident or you have lost a loved one in a car accident on Arkansas roadways, contacting an attorney is a good idea. Most personal injury firms offer a free consultation and a review of your case and can tell you how best to proceed.


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