Best Car Accident Lawyers in Oklahoma City

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number of the Oklahoma City Police Department is 405-231-2121.

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

  Police reports may be requested using the official OCPD Records Request portal or in person by visiting the Records Unit between 7:30 AM on Monday through Friday at 7:00 PM. The OCPD Records Request portal is at https://oklahomacityok.justfoia.com/Forms/Launch/8bceebdf-37b1-4d13-8535-86299b1dd659.

• What should you do if you get involved in a car accident in Oklahoma City?

  Calling 911 to request medical assistance should be done as soon as possible following a car collision in Oklahoma City. Calling 911 will help the police arrive on the spot, even if you don't believe anyone has been hurt. A police report should be submitted for any car accident, no matter how minor, especially if it occurs in traffic or has the potential to alter the flow of traffic. Keep in mind that the evidence is permanently lost as soon as you leave the car accident scene.

• Is there a deadline in Oklahoma City for filing a civil lawsuit after a car accident?

  Pursuing compensation is not limited to filing an insurance claim after a car accident in Oklahoma City. A lawsuit against the at-fault motorist can be filed within two years of the collision in accordance with the applicable statute of limitations. If you wait until the statutory deadline has passed before filing a lawsuit, you risk losing your right to compensation.

• Is it possible to recover damages if you are partially at fault in an Oklahoma City car accident?

  According to Oklahoma statute, if you are determined to be somewhat at fault for the accident under the doctrine of comparative negligence, your reward will be reduced accordingly. You cannot receive any compensation if you contributed more than 50% to the accident. This implies that if you sustain $100,000 in losses and are held 25% accountable for an accident in Oklahoma City, your maximum recovery would be $75,000 instead of $100,000.

• Does a victim of a car accident in Oklahoma City have to go to court to receive compensation?

  The majority of injury cases are resolved without a trial. However, it is ultimately up to you whether to settle out of court or go to trial. You can get legal advice and direction from Oklahoma City car accident attorneys regarding your best line of action in getting your maximum compensation.

• What are the most common causes of car accidents in Oklahoma City?

  In Oklahoma City, the majority of car accidents are due to avoidable driver mistakes. Among the most frequent causes are:

  • Speeding
  • Dangerous lane changes
  • Negligent driving
  • Running a red light
  • Inexperienced drivers
  • Flaws in vehicle design
  • Driving while distracted
  • Driving while texting
  • Impaired driving
  • Ignoring a right-of-way request

• 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.