Best Car Accident Lawyers in Muskogee

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns or incidents, call the Muskogee Police Department at 918-683-8000.

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

  To get a copy of a traffic collision report online, visit the link below and enter the details of the collision. https://buycrash.lexisnexisrisk.com/ui/report/search?state=OK&jurisdiction=Muskogee%20Police%20Department If no report matches the details, call the Muskogee Police Department at 918-683-8000.

• How can you recover damages if the driver at fault does not have insurance in Muskogee, OK?

  You can claim against your own insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured (UIM) and collision coverages, provided that you have these. If your damages are over your UIM’s coverage limits, you can attempt to sue the at-fault driver directly to recover additional compensation. The compensation will be drawn from the negligent driver’s own assets and money. A Muskogee car accident lawyer can help you determine the ideal course of action.

• Should you talk to the at-fault driver’s insurance company after a car accident in Muskogee, OK?

  You are not legally obligated to communicate with the other driver’s insurer. You can choose to talk to the insurance representative but be mindful that your conversation may be recorded and your statements could be used against you later on. It is advised that you seek counsel from a Muskogee car accident lawyer who can guide you on how to answer the insurer's queries without negatively affecting your claim.

• How does the comparative negligence law affect your car accident claim in Muskogee, OK?

  When multiple parties are found to be at fault in an accident, the comparative negligence law assigns a percentage of fault to each party. The compensation award you receive will be in proportion to your assigned percentage of fault. If you have been injured in a car accident in Muskogee but were assigned 40% at fault for texting while driving, your compensation award will also be 40% less.

• Whose insurance pays for the passenger’s damages in a car accident in Muskogee, OK?

  The injured passenger is entitled to compensation from the at-fault party, whether it’s the driver of the car they were riding or the driver of another vehicle. The passenger can file a third-party claim against the negligent driver’s insurance policy. If the driver at fault is uninsured or underinsured, the passenger may make a first-party claim against his or her own insurance policy's uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. Alternatively, the passenger has the option of suing the reckless driver with the help of a Muskogee car accident lawyer.

• What is the statute of limitations to file a personal injury claim for a car accident in Muskogee, OK?

  According to Oklahoma Statutes Section 12-95, car accident victims in Muskogee have two years from the date the car accident occurred to bring a personal injury claim. Exceptions may be made in circumstances where the injury or its severity was discovered at a later date or if the victim was a minor at the time of the accident. If the car accident victim passed away, their surviving family must file the wrongful death claim within two years of the victim's passing.

• 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.