Truck accidents can be quite devastating; even if you feel confident driving next to the heavy-duty vehicle on the road, you can never be too sure about your safety. Frequently, when a smaller vehicle collides with a truck, the result can be more gruesome than when two smaller vehicles crash. One driver’s negligence can lead to fatalities and lifelong injuries for innocent victims.
According to Arkansas traffic rules, drivers must wear their seat belts when they’re behind the wheel. Here’s all you need to know if you didn’t have your seat belt on during the crash:
Seat belt laws in Arkansas
The seat belts laws in Arkansas require each front passenger and driver to have their seat belt on during all times. Drivers are also responsible for ensuring that children under the age of 16 are wearing their seat belts. Since the state has primary offense seat belt laws, the police may even pull you over and issue a citation if they see you’re driving without a seat belt.
While traveling with a toddler, the laws require you to secure them with a child safety seat properly.
The seat belt defense
In some US states, the truck driver who caused the accident can use the seat belt defense to reduce their legal and financial liability. They can say that you suffered more significant injuries due to your negligence regarding the seat belt laws.
However, currently, Arkansas has no seat belt defense. This means the opposing party cannot blame you for their negligence in the courtroom. But the insurance company may use many tactics to minimize the compensation after an accident. Some things that you should be aware of are:
The insurance adjuster asking you to make a voluntary recorded statement
A few days after your accident, an insurance adjuster might contact you requesting a recorded statement. They do this because they can get you to say something that can be used against you in court. Hence, it’s wise to decline their request politely and talk to your attorney first.
The insurance adjuster asking you to give the names of your medical providers
Insurance companies work really hard to unearth something that they can use against you. In that vein, they may try to get your medical provider’s name and other details to find something of their use. Avoid giving them any additional information to protect your claim until you speak with a lawyer.
Legal help in truck accident claims in Arkansas
A robust legal representation can strengthen your claim in the truck accident case. The first person you should talk to after seeking medical help following your crash is a trusted auto accident lawyer.
At the Law Offices of Lisa Douglas, we provide qualified legal help in car and truck accident cases in Little Rock, Arkansas. Our experienced auto accident lawyers work tirelessly to get you the fair compensation you deserve.
