How Long Do I Have to File an Auto Claim in Arkansas?

After a car crash in Arkansas, you're left with a lot of questions. One of the most important is: how long do I have to file an insurance claim or lawsuit? Whether you're dealing with medical bills, vehicle repairs, or lost wages, the clock is ticking—and missing a deadline can mean losing your right to recover compensation.

Arkansas's Statute of Limitations for Auto Accidents

In Arkansas, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (Arkansas Code § 16-56-105). This deadline applies to injuries caused by car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck collisions, and pedestrian incidents.

If you’re filing a lawsuit for property damage only (such as vehicle repairs), you have five years to take legal action (Arkansas Code § 16-56-111).

But here's the deal - while the state's timeline may be long, your insurance company is not so lenient.

Insurance Claim vs. Lawsuit: What’s the Difference?

An insurance claim is a request for compensation made to your insurance company or the at-fault party’s insurer. You should start this process as soon as possible—ideally within 24 to 72 hours after the crash.

A lawsuit is a legal action filed in court when insurance negotiations fail or the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation. The statute of limitations only applies to lawsuits, not insurance claims—but waiting too long can still hurt your case.

What If I Miss the Deadline?

If you try to file a lawsuit after the statute of limitations has expired (3-5 years after the accident), the court will almost certainly dismiss your case. You won’t be able to recover compensation, no matter how strong your evidence is.

Some exceptions exist—like if the injured person is a minor or mentally incapacitated at the time of the crash—but these are rare and require legal interpretation.

Why Time Matters, Even Before the Deadline

Even though you technically have years to act, waiting too long can weaken your case:

• Evidence like skid marks or security footage may disappear.

• Witness memories fade.

• Insurance companies may question why you delayed.

That’s why it’s smart to talk to a lawyer early—even if you’re unsure whether you want to sue.

Our Role: Helping You Meet Every Deadline

At Ludwig Law Firm, we make sure your case is on track from day one. We:

• Notify all relevant insurance companies.

• Collect and preserve evidence.

• File paperwork before legal deadlines expire.

• Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement.

• File a lawsuit when needed.

Conclusion
If you’ve been in a crash, don’t wait. The clock may be ticking, but you still have time to take control of your future.

📞 Call Ludwig Law Firm at 501-838-4043
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