Best Car Accident Lawyers in Tulsa

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Tulsa Police Department is 918-596-9222.

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

  To get a copy of the police report for an accident in Tulsa, you must go to the Tulsa Police & Municipal Court located at 600 Civic Center Suite 201 (Plaza Level). It is open Monday to Friday from 9 am - 4 pm. Another option is to call the the Records Division of the department at 918.596.9286 every Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.

• What are the characteristics of drivers involved in car accidents in Tulsa?

  Drivers between the ages of 15 and 34 are the most prone to be involved in an accident, with the 20-24 age group having the highest risk. In terms of gender, male drivers are more likely than female drivers to get into collisions, including fatalities. Distractions, improper lane changes, speeding, and alcohol impairment are some of the common driving characteristics documented in car accidents.

• What happens if the driver who is at fault in a car accident in Tulsa has no insurance?

  If you are hit by an uninsured driver in Tulsa, you must contact the police immediately. Capture as much evidence as possible, including images and other relevant details. Then, contact your insurance provider and make a claim against the at-fault motorist so your provider can reimburse your medical expenditures and vehicle damage. If you wish to take the driver to court, you'll need to hire a lawyer who can walk you through the process and help you develop your case.

• How common are speed-related car accidents in Tulsa?

  According to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, Tulsa has the most speed-related accidents in the state, with more than 1,870 occurring every year. Within the Tulsa city limits alone, nearly 1,600 accidents happen annually. The most common reasons why drivers speed include higher speed limits compared to other places in the US, influence of alcohol, the age of the driver, and time of day.

• What are the intersections with the most number of car accidents in Tulsa?

  According to locals and local media outlets, the intersection with the most car accidents in Tulsa is the Broken Arrow Expressway at Memorial Drive. One of the most active streets in Tulsa, 71st Street, also features unsafe junctions with documented accidents. This is because of the business buildings that surround the region. Other high-crash crossings include the Broken Arrow Expressway at Lewis Avenue and the Broken Arrow Expressway at Sheridan Road.

• What is the time limit to sue someone after a car accident in Tulsa?

  Under Oklahoma law, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim if you were injured in a car accident in Tulsa. If a person who was injured in an automobile accident dies later caused by complications, a family member can pursue a wrongful death claim. For this type of case, the statute of limitations is two years after the date of death rather than the date of the accident.

• 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.