Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lawton

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Lawton, Oklahoma?

  Call (580) 581-3272 for non-emergency dispatch in Lawton.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Lawton, Oklahoma?

  For questions on how to get a copy of an accident report, call the Lawton Police Department Records Section at (580) 581-3233 or visit the station at the Public Safety Center located at 100 S Railroad.

• Is it possible to settle a property damage claim without affecting a personal injury claim for a car accident in Lawton?

  Yes. In most cases, representation from a lawyer is not needed in property damage claims. However, you have to be careful that you are only settling the property damage claim. There are some insurance tactics that include putting statements such as "full and final settlement of all claims" in cheques that could as well settle all your claims, including the personal injury one. If in doubt, consult with a lawyer before settling any claims for your car accident in Lawton.

• What is a "subrogation claim" in a car accident case in Lawton?

  A subrogation claim is filed by your insurance company to collect money from your injury settlement with the at-fault party for paying your injury-related expenses in a Lawton car accident. Under subrogation laws, the at-fault party should be responsible for your compensation, and your insurer has the right to recoup their losses. You should be notified by your insurer when they file a subrogation claim.

• What is the significance of a 25/50 insurance policy in a car accident case in Lawton?

  25/50 means that there is $25,000 of liability insurance coverage available to each person injured and a total of $50,000 available, regardless of how many persons are injured in the car accident in Lawton. 25/50 is the minimum liability insurance policy on every vehicle required by state laws.

• What are the financial recovery options in a hit-and-run car accident in Lawton?

  You'll have to recover compensation from your own insurance policy for a hit-and-run car accident in Lawton of which the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Check your insurance policy for coverage on uninsured motorists, comprehensive collisions, and MedPay. If the hit-and-run driver has been identified, you can hold the driver financially accountable for the accident.

• Is there a crash hotspot intersection in Lawton?

  Yes. The intersection of Gore Boulevard at 52nd and 53rd Streets is considered a dangerous area in Lawton that is prone to car accidents. Some of the most common types of car accidents that happen in intersections include T-boning, rear-ending, and head-on collisions. Pedestrians and bikers are most especially at risk of getting struck in intersections.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.