Navigating the Holidays with Travel Safety Tips — and Your Legal Rights

The holiday season is upon us, and with the joy of travel and festivities comes the need for caution. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip across Arkansas or catching a flight to visit loved ones, ensuring your safety should be a top priority. In this blog post, we’ll go over valuable holiday travel safety tips and shed light on your legal rights should the unexpected occur.

How Can You Stay Safe While On the Road?

• Plan Ahead: Before hitting the road or taking to the skies, plan your journey meticulously. Check the weather forecast, road conditions, and any travel advisories. Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition if you’re driving, and confirm flight details if you’re flying.

• Avoid Fatigue: Long journeys can be tiring, leading to fatigue and decreased alertness. If driving, take breaks every few hours to rest and stretch. If flying, ensure you get enough rest before your trip to stay alert and minimize the risk of accidents.

• Secure Your Home: Before leaving, secure your home to prevent break-ins. Lock all doors and windows, set alarms if available, and ask a neighbor or friend to house-sit or keep an eye on your property. Returning to a secure home adds peace of mind to your holiday.

• Travel Insurance: Consider investing in travel insurance. This can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected events. Review the policy carefully to understand the extent of coverage and ensure it meets your needs.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on current events and any travel disruptions. Be aware of local laws and customs at your destination, and keep emergency contact numbers handy.

What Are Your Legal Rights In the Event of a Car Accident?

In Arkansas, personal injury claims arising from car accidents must be filed within three years of the incident. This timeframe is called a statute of limitations. You have to adhere to this time frame because if you don’t, it will result in the inability to pursue your claim.

Car Insurance Requirements

Arkansas operates as an at-fault or tort state, and drivers must have insurance. When driving in Arkansas, you must provide proof of insurance if requested by a police officer. 

Failure to have the mandatory insurance coverage may lead to significant consequences, including fines of up to $250, license suspension, and the impoundment of your vehicle.

Accident Reporting

Whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state driver, Arkansas mandates specific actions in the event of an accident resulting in damage to a vehicle or personal property. If you find yourself in this situation, remember:

• Step #1: Immediate Stop: Immediately stop your vehicle at the accident scene or, if this is unsafe, as close as possible to the site.
• Step #2: Remain at the Scene: Return to and remain at the accident scene. Leaving the scene prematurely may lead to legal consequences or mess up your claim.

These rules apply to everyone who drives in Arkansas, no matter how small or big the damage is from an accident. They’re in place so that everyone follows the same steps after an accident, making sure things are handled consistently across the state.

Have You Been in a Traffic Accident?

As you embark on your holiday travels, keep these legal considerations in mind. 

Understanding your rights and obligations can make a major difference in the unfortunate event of a car accident. Also, remember reporting and filing requirements can help protect your legal interests, so do so immediately. 

If you’re in a car accident, how much you’re considered at fault can affect your ability to get compensation for damages. The team at Hickey & Hull Law Firm, being experts in this field, recommends getting legal advice quickly. We can help you navigate through the complexities of personal injury claims in Arkansas.

Chat, fill out our online form, or contact us today to get a free consultation. Our River Valley office number is 479.434.2414, and our Northwest Arkansas number is 479.802.6560.