You have 2 years to file an Arkansas workers' comp claim, and if you miss that deadline you can lose it.

Next 24 hours: report the wreck and the panic symptoms in writing. Do not just say "I'm shook up." Write that the crash happened in a work zone, list any physical injuries, and add the mental symptoms: panic attacks, nightmares, anxiety, trouble sleeping, fear of traffic or equipment. In Arkansas, a mental injury usually is not covered unless it was caused by a physical injury. That makes your paperwork matter right now.

If the wreck was on a state or federal highway near Jonesboro, get the Arkansas State Police report number if they responded. If there were lane shifts, flaggers, dump trucks, or heavy equipment involved, write that down while it is fresh.

Next week: get seen by a doctor and say the mental symptoms started after the work injury. Then push for a referral to a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist. Arkansas workers' comp law is picky here: psychological injuries are stronger when they are diagnosed by a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist, not just mentioned casually in a chart. Keep receipts for therapy, prescriptions, and mileage.

Also file a claim with the Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission using Form AR-C if the employer is stalling or telling you to use your own insurance. Your boss does not get the final say.

Next month: keep a simple log. Note every panic episode, missed shift, sleep problem, medication change, and therapy visit. If a third-party driver or contractor caused the crash, that can matter too. Arkansas uses modified comparative fault: if you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover from the third-party claim. Under 50%, your recovery is reduced by your share of fault.

Bottom line: your boss is wrong if there was a physical work injury tied to the panic symptoms. Arkansas does recognize those claims, but only if you document them fast and the right way.