Which of the following statements regarding cumulative preferred dividends is NOT accurate?

a$.$ Unpaid cumulative preferred dividends are called arrearages.

b$.$ Dividends in arrears earn a specified rate of interest.

c$.$ Dividends in arrears do not expire; they continue in force until they are paid.

d$.$ Preferred dividends in arrears must be paid before common dividends can be paid.

e$.$ Nonpayment of preferred dividends will not trigger bankruptcy.