How to Handle a Hit-and-Run Accident in Arkansas

A hit and run accident is one of the most stressful experiences a person can endure. You’re suddenly left injured, facing property damage, and wondering how you’ll pay for medical expenses—all while the hit and run driver has already fled the scene.

So, how to handle a hit-and-run accident in Arkansas? The answer requires a careful mix of safety steps, legal knowledge, and working with your insurance company or a qualified auto accident attorney to pursue compensation.

What Is Considered a Hit and Run in Arkansas?

Under Arkansas law, a hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash leaves the scene of the accident without stopping to provide reasonable assistance or exchange information.

Common scenarios include:

• A fleeing driver who causes a car accident and fled the scene before police arrive.
  
• A driver striking an unattended vehicle and failing to leave necessary documentation or contact info.
  
• A crash where the responsible driver fails to render aid to injured victims.
  

Arkansas run laws are strict. In fact, under state law, failing to stop after an accident that causes injury or death may be charged as a class D felony.

Arkansas Hit and Run Laws

Arkansas law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop, provide their information, and render reasonable assistance to anyone injured. Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal, whether it’s in Little Rock, Hot Springs, or anywhere else in the state.

If the at fault driver or negligent driver does not stop, they can face criminal penalties, such as jail time, fines, or a suspended license, along with civil liability.

Victims may also have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court to recover damages from the responsible party.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Crash

If you’re involved in an accident and the run driver leaves, what you do in the moments after can make a huge difference in your case.

1. Seek medical attention – Your health is the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, medical treatment and documentation are vital.
   
2. Call law enforcement officers – File an accident report. A police report is key to creating official records for hit and run cases.
   
3. Gathering evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, skid marks, debris, and any vehicle involved. Write down the license plate number if possible.
   
4. Look for surveillance footage – Businesses or homes nearby may have cameras that captured the fleeing vehicle.
   
5. Talk to witnesses – Collect names and contact info for anyone who saw the hit and run crash. Their statements can serve as valuable evidence.
   
6. Notify your own insurance company – Promptly report the accident and begin the claims process.
   

Taking these steps will help prove liability and strengthen your case if you need to pursue legal action.

Common Causes of Hit and Runs

There are many reasons a run driver may choose to flee the scene:

• Driving without insurance or with expired insurance policy
• Driving under the influence
• Fear of pursuing criminal charges
• Suspended or revoked driver’s license
• Wanting to avoid being the responsible party in civil court
  

Regardless of why the other driver fled, victims are left with injuries, bills, and uncertainty.

How Insurance Works in Hit and Run Cases

If the hit and run driver is not found, you may still have options through your insurance company. Many insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage, which can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage when the at fault driver cannot be located.

Your own insurance company may step in, but be aware that insurers often attempt to minimize payouts. This is why working with a hit and run attorney can make a big difference in ensuring you receive a fair settlement.

Arkansas Hit and Run Cases: Civil and Criminal Consequences

Arkansas hit and run accidents often result in both criminal and civil cases. The fleeing driver may face criminal penalties for breaking run laws, while the accident victims can file a personal injury lawsuit or pursue legal action in civil court.

Because the statute of limitations for personal injury in Arkansas is up to six years, victims have time to pursue justice—but waiting too long risks missing critical legal deadlines and losing access to seeking compensation.

Compensation Available to Victims

If you’ve been hurt in an arkansas hit and run, you may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses and medical bills for immediate care and follow-ups
• Lost wages if you were unable to work due to your injuries
• Property damage for repairs or replacement of your vehicle
• Pain and suffering for the emotional and physical toll of the accident
• The chance to recover compensation through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit

An experienced run attorney can guide you through the claims process and help you in pursuing compensation from all available sources.

Gathering Evidence in Hit and Run Cases

To build a strong case, your legal team will focus on gathering evidence, which may include:

• Police reports and accident reports filed at the scene of the accident
• Eyewitness accounts identifying the vehicle involved or license plate number
• Surveillance footage of the fleeing vehicle
• Photos from the accident scene showing damage, debris, and skid marks
• Documentation of medical attention and medical treatment received
  

This necessary documentation will support your ability to recover damages and ensure the responsible party is held accountable.

Why You Need a Hit and Run Attorney

A skilled hit and run attorney understands the challenges unique to hit and run cases. From negotiating with the insurance company to gathering valuable evidence, they can:

• Protect your rights under Arkansas law
• Handle communication with insurers during the claims process
• Investigate the fleeing vehicle with help from law enforcement officers
• Pursue both civil claims and assist with pursuing criminal charges if necessary
• Maximize your chances to recover compensation

Without strong legal guidance, you risk the insurance company offering far less than you deserve.

Hit and Runs in Little Rock and Beyond

Hit and runs are unfortunately common in Arkansas, particularly in areas like Little Rock and Hot Springs, where heavy traffic and limited visibility increase risks. Whether the accident occurred in a large city or a rural county, the same legal protections apply to ensure accident victims can pursue justice.

Protecting Yourself After a Hit and Run Accident

A hit and run accident leaves victims shaken and uncertain. From medical expenses to property damage and emotional trauma, the impact is devastating. Fortunately, Arkansas hit and run laws allow victims to pursue justice against the negligent driver, whether through insurance claims, legal action, or both.

By gathering evidence, filing a police report, and working with an experienced accident attorney, you can strengthen your case and increase your chances of seeking justice and fair recovery.

Call for a Free Consultation

At Justin Minton Law Firm, we fight for victims of hit and run crashes across Arkansas. Our personal injury lawyers know how to navigate complex hit and run cases, negotiate with the insurance company, and hold the responsible party accountable.

We offer a free consultation to review your case and explain your options. Call us today at (501) 794-0001 to discuss your rights and begin the path to recover compensation.