Krisy Wood, Connie Smith Injured in Southside Multi-Vehicle Crash

The three-vehicle collision occurred on U.S. Highway 167 near Nelly Belle Lane
Krisy Wood, 46, of Locust Grove, and Connie Smith, 62, of Clinton, were injured in a three-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 167 in Southside, Arkansas, on Monday, according to Arkansas State Police.
A northbound 2012 Nissan Altima crossed the center line at 6:51 a.m. and collided head-on with a 2023 GMC Acadia driven by Wood, investigators said. The Nissan then drifted back into the northbound lanes and was hit by a 2018 Cadillac driven by Smith.
The driver of the Nissan, a 57-year-old Judsonia man, suffered fatal injuries in the collision.
Victims like Wood and Smith often face a long road to recovery after sudden, severe collisions on local highways. While the community rallies around those injured in such unexpected crashes, understanding the investigative process is critical for the families involved.
"In severe car accidents, investigators will thoroughly examine roadway marks, vehicle damage, and event data recorders to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the collision," said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal.
What caused the vehicle to cross the center line on U.S. 167?
As the victims focus on healing, insurance adjusters often begin their own evaluations of the crash within days, before the full extent of medical costs is known.
"Victims of car accidents often face mounting medical bills and lost wages, making it essential to preserve evidence and document all injuries immediately following the collision," said Stefano Formica, of Bond Legal
What are the legal options for the injured drivers?
Arkansas personal injury claims
Victims may be entitled to economic damages, such as hospital bills and lost income, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering. The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Arkansas is generally three years from the date of the crash, making timely legal consultation an important step for preserving evidence and protecting legal rights.