Drunk Driving Accidents in Little Rock

Drunk driving accidents often result in severe consequences for both the impaired drivers and innocent victims. In fact:

Arkansas law defines legal intoxication as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, it’s crucial to note that drivers can still be charged with DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) even if their BAC is below this threshold, if law enforcement determines they are too impaired to operate a vehicle safely.

Little Rock enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. Individuals under 21 with a BAC of 0.02% or higher face DUI charges, reflecting the city’s commitment to preventing alcohol-related accidents among young drivers.

Of course, the impact of drunk driving accidents in Little Rock extends far beyond the immediate crash site. These incidents often result in multi-vehicle collisions, property damage, and injuries to pedestrians or cyclists. They occur across all neighborhoods, from residential areas to busy downtown streets and at various times of day.

Arkansas law includes a five-year “lookback period” for DUI offenses. This means repeat offenders face significantly harsher penalties if caught driving under the influence again within five years of their first offense. This provision aims to deter repeat offenses and enhance public safety.

Do I Have a Case?

After a drunk driving crash in Little Rock or elsewhere in Arkansas, most victims have grounds for a lawsuit against the impaired driver, even if they bear some responsibility for the collision. Arkansas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule, which means you can seek damages if you’re found to be less than 50% at fault for the accident.

If you’re unsure whether you have a case, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Little Rock DWI accident victim lawyer promptly. At Rainwater, Holt & Sexton, we can examine the specifics of your accident and assess your eligibility to file a claim or lawsuit.

Arkansas law takes a firm stance against drunk driving. If the other driver was intoxicated and caused you harm, you likely have a strong case. Factors that may strengthen your position include:

  • The driver’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at the time of the accident
  • Any field sobriety test results
  • Eyewitness accounts of the driver’s behavior
  • Evidence of property damage or injuries sustained

Remember, Arkansas has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases, typically three years from the date of the accident. It’s essential to act quickly to preserve your rights and gather critical evidence.

Every case is unique, and the circumstances surrounding your accident will determine the strength of your claim. Our injury legal team can provide a thorough evaluation of your case. We’re committed to helping Little Rock residents and Arkansans across the state seek justice and compensation after drunk driving accidents.

What To Do After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver in Little Rock

If you’ve been involved in an accident with an impaired driver in Little Rock, knowing the right steps to take can significantly impact your case. Here’s what you should do:

  • Dial 911 immediately to notify Little Rock Police and emergency medical services
  • Prioritize your health by seeking medical care, even if injuries seem minor
  • Gather the intoxicated driver’s contact and insurance details
  • Collect information from any witnesses at the scene
  • Document the accident site with photos and videos if possible
  • Adhere strictly to your healthcare provider’s treatment recommendations
  • Maintain a detailed record of your recovery, noting pain levels and daily challenges
  • Inform your insurance provider and employer about the incident
  • Preserve all medical bills, receipts, and accident-related expenses
  • Reach out to a seasoned Little Rock DUI accident attorney promptly
  • Refrain from providing recorded statements without legal counsel

Do not sign any documents before consulting your lawyer. A skilled Little Rock drunk driving accident attorney at RHS will advocate for your rights and work tirelessly to secure financial compensation.

Who is Responsible for Your Little Rock Drunk Driving Accident?

After a drunk driving accident in Little Rock, you may wonder who is ultimately responsible for the crash and your resulting injuries. An experienced Arkansas drunk driving attorney at RHS can help establish liability and guide you through seeking compensation.

The most apparent responsible party is typically the impaired driver. By operating a vehicle while intoxicated, they’ve violated Arkansas law and put others at risk. This violation often forms the foundation of legal accountability.

However, since Arkansas follows the “modified comparative fault” rule, the court assigns a percentage of fault to each party involved in the accident. You can still recover damages if you’re found to be less than 50% responsible for the collision. The amount you’re eligible to receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What About Other Parties?

In drunk driving cases, the intoxicated driver is often assigned a significant portion of the blame. But other factors could influence the distribution of fault, such as:

  1. Road conditions
  2. Vehicle malfunctions
  3. Actions of other drivers or pedestrians
  4. Potential negligence of establishments that served alcohol to the driver

It’s worth noting that Arkansas has “dram shop” laws, which can hold bars or restaurants liable if they served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then caused an accident. Under Arkansas Code § 16-126-104, establishments that sell or serve alcohol can be held liable for injuries caused by their intoxicated patrons. This applies in two key scenarios:

  1. When alcohol is served to a clearly intoxicated person
  2. When alcohol is provided to a minor under 21 years of age

You may have access to additional insurance policies or assets by including these establishments in your claim. This can be crucial if the drunk driver’s insurance coverage is insufficient to fully compensate you for your injuries and losses.

Your Little Rock drunk driving accident attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case to identify all potentially responsible parties. This comprehensive approach ensures that you have the best chance of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Drunk Driver Statistics in Arkansas and Little Rock

Drunk driving remains a significant concern in Arkansas at large and the capital city, Little Rock. Recent data from the Arkansas State Police and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) paint a sobering picture of the problem’s scope.

In a recent year, approximately 34% of all traffic fatalities in Arkansas were alcohol-related.

This translates to more than 100 lives lost annually due to impaired driving in the state. Moreover, it’s estimated that for every arrest made for driving under the influence (DUI), there are hundreds of impaired driving incidents that go undetected.

Arkansas ranks 13th in the country for drunk driving.

Pulaski County, where Little Rock is located, consistently ranks among the top counties in Arkansas for DUI arrests and alcohol-related crashes. According to one study, 30% of fatalities in Pulaski County involved a drunk driver. The county’s higher population density and concentration of nightlife venues contribute to this troubling statistic.

Little Rock, as the state’s most populous city, bears a disproportionate burden of these incidents.

The Little Rock Police Department reports that DUI arrests make up a significant portion of their annual arrests, highlighting the ongoing challenge faced by law enforcement in curbing this dangerous behavior.

Injured in an Accident with a Drunk Driver?

Our No Fee Guarantee® means you pay us nothing unless we win your case.
Get a Free Consultation

How Much Compensation Am I Entitled To?

If you’ve been injured by an intoxicated driver in Little Rock, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation. Arkansas law recognizes two primary categories of damages in these cases: economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages are quantifiable losses that can be verified through documentation. These include:

  • Medical expenses
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Ongoing treatment expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Diminished earning capacity
  • Property damage

Non-economic damages are more subjective and may include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of consortium (or loss of the benefits of an intimate or familial relationship, such as companionship and intimacy)

In certain cases, Arkansas law allows for the pursuit of punitive damages. Unlike compensatory damages, these are meant to penalize the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and deter similar actions in the community. However, Arkansas law places limits on punitive damages in most situations.

The total compensation you might receive depends on several factors:

  • The severity and long-term impact of your injuries
  • Your degree of fault in the accident (if any)
  • The vehicles involved (e.g. truck, motorcycle, or car accident)
  • The drunk driver’s level of intoxication
  • The strength of evidence in your case

Arkansas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule, which means your compensation could be reduced if you’re found partially responsible for the accident. Additionally, there are time limits (statutes of limitations) for filing drunk driving accident claims in Arkansas.

Given the complexities of Arkansas drunk driving laws and the potential for legislative changes, you should hire an experienced Little Rock personal injury attorney at Rainwater, Holt & Sexton after your crash. They can provide a detailed assessment of your case, explain your rights, and work to maximize your compensation.

Remember, every drunk driving accident case in Little Rock is unique. Your specific circumstances will determine the types and amounts of compensation you may be eligible to receive. Don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance to ensure your rights are fully protected and you receive the compensation that can help in your recovery.

Why Hire an Attorney for Your Little Rock Drunk Driving Accident Case?

Drunk driving crashes in Little Rock present unique challenges. These cases involve intricate details that require thorough investigation and analysis. From obtaining blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reports to scrutinizing police records, every aspect of the incident needs careful examination.

While the Little Rock Police Department focuses on the criminal aspects of drunk driving, your primary concern is rightfully your recovery and compensation. This is where a skilled attorney becomes invaluable. They can dedicate their time and resources to building a strong civil case on your behalf, ensuring that your rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process.

Insurance companies, even in clear-cut drunk driving cases, often attempt to minimize payouts. Their primary objective is to protect their bottom line, which can lead to inadequate settlement offers that fail to cover the full extent of your injuries and losses. An experienced Little Rock attorney at Rainwater, Holt & Sexton understands these tactics and can effectively counter them, advocating for fair compensation that truly reflects the impact of the accident on your life.

Moreover, Arkansas law has specific nuances when it comes to drunk driving accidents. From the state’s dram shop liability laws to the modified comparative fault rule, navigating these legal complexities requires in-depth knowledge and experience.

Why Choose Rainwater, Holt & Sexton?

When you’ve been hit by a drunk driver in Little Rock, you need more than just a lawyer — you need a champion. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Rainwater, Holt & Sexton.

For years, we’ve been standing up for drunk driving accident victims across Little Rock and throughout Arkansas. Our team knows the ins and outs of Little Rock’s streets and Arkansas’s legal landscape, giving you a hometown advantage as we advocate for fair compensation.

At Rainwater Holt & Sexton, we don’t just work for you—we work with you. We’ll be by your side every step of the way, from your first consultation to the final resolution of your case. Our team is always just a phone call away, ready to answer your questions and address your

We Serve Little Rock

From the historic Quapaw Quarter to the bustling River Market District, our Little Rock drunk-driving accident attorneys are here for you. We’re intimately familiar with the city’s most accident-prone areas, including the busy intersections along Cantrell and Markham.,

We understand that visitors to our capital city, perhaps here for a Razorbacks game or a concert at Simmons Bank Arena, may face unique challenges when dealing with out-of-state insurance claims. That’s why we’re committed to assisting all accident victims, whether you’re a longtime Little Rock resident or just passing through.

If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver anywhere in the Greater Little Rock area, be it downtown, in West Little Rock, North Little Rock, or the surrounding communities, we’re here to help. Let the experienced Little Rock drunk driving accident attorneys at Rainwater, Holt & Sexton be your guide and advocate in seeking justice.

Contact Our Little Rock Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

With eight offices in Arkansas - Little Rock, Little Rock-Corporate Hill, Springdale, Conway, Hot Springs, Bryant, Jacksonville, and Jonesboro—our Little Rock personal injury lawyers are here to help you no matter where you suffer an injury. Contact Rainwater, Holt & Sexton drunk driving accident lawyers today.

Fill out a free contact request form, which only takes a minute, or simply dial (800) 434-4800 and tell us your story. We offer free consultations in person or over the phone to assist you better. Call us today!

We’re here to help.

Motor Vehicle Injury Resources

What Happens if the At-Fault Driver Has No Car Insurance?

If you get into an accident and the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, you might need to rely on your

Learn More

What Type of Doctor Should You See After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, figuring out what to do next can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are several types of doctors

Learn More

Arkansas Car Seat & Booster Seat Laws

As a parent in Arkansas, keeping your child safe on the road is one of your top priorities. Every time

Learn More
young couple in kitchen looking a a bill with a laptop

Are Car Accident Settlements Taxable in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, some components of a settlement are typically not taxable (for example, property damage, medical care costs, or physical

Learn More
drunk driving injury

Little Rock Drunk Driving Accident Victim Lawyers

If you're injured in a drunk driving accident in Little Rock, a knowledgeable Arkansas DUI accident attorney can help you

Learn More
Car Crash

What Are the Odds of Getting Into a Car Crash in Arkansas?

While the exact numbers vary based on factors like age, driving behavior, and density of traffic, a recent study found

Learn More
Closed Insurance Claim

Can a Closed Car Insurance Claim Be Reopened?

While reopening a closed claim isn’t impossible, it’s often an uphill battle. Our team at Rainwater, Holt & Sexton is

Learn More
Head on car crash

What Is a Head-On Collision?

A head-on collision occurs when the front ends of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. While head-on crashes are

Learn More
drunk driving injury

Do I Need a Lawyer for My Drunk Driving Accident Injury?

If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, we’re here to help.  We know that the days after a DUI

Learn More
Little Rock Deadliest Intersections

Where Do Most Car Crashes Happen in Arkansas?

Busy intersections, parking lots, and even rarely traveled rural roads — these are all locations in Arkansas where accidents frequently

Learn More
legal paper work

How Does the Car Accident Settlement Process Work?

Depending on factors like the severity of your injuries, the complexity of your case, and the timeline of insurance negotiations,

Learn More
Truck Accident

What Exactly Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Do?

If you’ve been in a collision with a truck, a truck accident lawyer can guide you through your legal options,

Learn More
legal paper work

What Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do?

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, a motorcycle accident lawyer can advocate for your rights, guide you through the

Learn More

Should I Get a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident?

While most people try to handle minor accidents on their own, it can still be advantageous to hire a car

Learn More
car side of road rolled over

Understanding Vehicle Rollovers: A Comprehensive Guide

Rollover accidents can be severe and complex — drivers must understand how they can happen, how to avoid them, and

Learn More