Arkansas Law Requires Proof of Auto Liability Insurance?

Owners of registered vehicles in Arkansas are required to maintain liability insurance. This protects drivers against costs related to accidents involving personal injury or property damage. All drivers are responsible for damage they cause. Medical expenses for injuries are also the responsibility of the at-fault party. Arkansas requires personal injury protection in addition to the standard liability coverage. This means that immediate medical attention will be covered even before a claim settlement is reached by insurance companies. Drivers in Arkansas are encouraged to review the laws pertaining to auto insurance.

Owners of registered vehicles must purchase a liability insurance policy that covers injuries to a non-fault individual up to a cost of $25,000. The policy must cover all medical expenses for innocent victims up to $50,000 per accident. Personal property damage must be covered by insurance as well. A liability policy in Arkansas must contain coverage of at least $25,000 for vehicle damage or to replace other personal property.

Personal injury protection is automatically included when a liability insurance policy is purchased in Arkansas. The insurance provider or independent agent will explain the cost of this coverage when a quote is generated. Vehicle owners have the option of purchasing uninsured motorist protection as part of a liability policy. This UM protection is not required by law. Many drivers opt for this coverage because regular liability protection does not include reimbursement for vehicle damage caused by an uninsured motorist.

There is an automatic $25 fine if a driver fails to show proof of required liability insurance to a law enforcement official. This fine will be dropped if the vehicle owner can later show proof that the vehicle was covered at the time the citation was issued. If the individual cannot provide proof of coverage, a larger fine will be imposed by the court. Those with multiple infractions on their driving record may have their driver's license temporarily suspended until proof of insurance is shown. Arkansas has an insurance verification program that checks for liability coverage on the part of the driver. Insurance companies or licensed agents must report any cancellation of coverage to the state government.

Individuals involved in an accident resulting in injury or personal property damage totaling more than $500 must complete form SR-21. This form provides proof of financial responsibility to the state government. If a vehicle owner is cited for lack of insurance coverage, he or she may have to obtain SR-22 insurance though a licensed agent in order to have a driver's license reinstated.

A blood alcohol content greater than 0.08 percent is considered intoxication in Arkansas. Anyone operating a motor vehicle is breaking the law if their blood alcohol level exceeds this percentage. Refusal to take a blood alcohol test will result in a revocation of the driver's license for six months. Those convicted of a first offense for driving under the influence of alcohol face a monetary fine of up to $1,000. A license suspension of six months is usually handed down by the court. An alcohol education program must be completed in order to have the license reinstated.