Car Accident Lawyer | Experienced Legal Representation

If you get hurt in a car accident, it's key to protect yourself. Turn on your hazard lights and call 911 for help. Take photos for evidence, get to a safe spot, and swap info with the other driver.

It's also crucial to check for injuries, see a doctor, and tell your insurance company. This helps your case.¹

To make a valid injury claim in Oklahoma:

First, the accident must be caused by another's mistake. You must have gotten hurt because of it. This needs to happen within two years of the crash.²

For damages you can claim, think about medical costs, lost pay, and what the accident did to your life. Your car's damage is part of this too.³

Key Takeaways

• Immediately take steps to ensure your safety and document the accident.
• Establish a valid personal injury claim by meeting the legal requirements.
• Understand the types of damages that may be recoverable in a car accident claim.
• Seek experienced legal representation to navigate the complexities of your case.
• Protect your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Knowing your rights and what to do after a car accident is key. It can help you get the money needed to heal and move on. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal stuff. They help you fight for what's right.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Accident

When a car accident happens, quick actions are key to future success with insurance or law. According to one source, you should turn on your hazards and call 911 immediately. This applies even if nobody is severely hurt.⁴ These steps are crucial for making sure everything is properly recorded. They also assist in handling insurance claims later on.

Turn on Hazards and Call 911

If you can, snap some pictures at the crash site, capture vehicle damages, and any injuries.⁴ It's a good idea to get your car to a safer spot if you can. But, if moving it is risky, leave it right there. The police will need to see where the accident happened.

Take Photos and Get to a Safe Location

It's important to share your contact and insurance details with the other driver(s).⁴ Also, make sure to look over yourself and others for any hidden injuries from the accident.

Exchange Information and Check for Injuries

The first source says that even if you seem okay, seeing a doctor is vital.⁴ This helps to put any injuries on official record for your insurance. Plus, don't forget to call your insurance company quickly to start the claim process.

Seek Medical Attention and Contact Insurance Company

Determining If You Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim

To have a valid personal injury claim in Oklahoma, you should have been in a car accident. This includes being a driver, a passenger, or in a single-vehicle accident.⁵

The cause of the accident must have been someone's negligence. This could be due to distracted driving, speeding, or being under the influence.⁶

Your claim also needs to show injuries, whether physical or emotional, like broken bones or PTSD. These injuries should be from the car accident.⁶

There's a deadline for filing your lawsuit in Oklahoma, which is two years from the accident date. This is known as a statute of limitations.⁵

Types of Damages Recoverable in a Personal Injury Claim

After a car accident, getting damages is key to your financial and personal healing. You can claim various damages in a personal injury case:

Medical Expenses

Recover the costs for medical needs, like hospital stays and therapy, after the accident.⁷

Lost Wages

If the accident made you miss work or stop working, you could get your lost earnings back.⁷

Pain and Suffering

Physical pain and the emotional impact are also part of the claim in a lawsuit.⁷

Property Damage

If your car or other belongings got damaged, you can claim repair or replacement costs.⁷

Working with a skilled injury lawyer ensures you claim all possible damages. This helps you recover fully and get the support you need to move on.⁸⁹

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Personal Injury Lawsuits in Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, you have two years from a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.¹⁰ This lets you seek compensation for any harm. The two-year period may change if the injured person is a minor or mentally unfit. It may also change if the at-fault person moves out of state.

If the accident involves a government entity, the rules are stricter.¹¹ You must file your claim within one year of the accident for city or county cases and the same goes for state-wide cases. Letting the government know about your claim also must happen within a year.

If the victim is a minor, the timing to file a lawsuit extends.¹⁰ They can wait until they are 20 for car accident injuries. For medical malpractice, the law allows up to a year after turning 18, but no less than two years from the injury date.¹⁰ If a defendant escapes Oklahoma, the time limit to sue is paused until they come back.

For medical malpractice, there's a special rule in Oklahoma.¹⁰ If the person didn't discover their injury right away, they get two years from that discovery.

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Consulting a Car Accident Lawyer Before Talking to Insurance Companies

It's a good idea to talk to a personal injury attorney before chatting with the insurance company.¹² Often, the insurance company might not pay much attention to the seriousness of your injuries. They could also offer you less money than you deserve. So, by letting an attorney talk for you and negotiate, you're more likely to get fair pay for what you've been through.

¹³ Surprisingly, 65% of people in car accidents don't get advice from a lawyer before talking to their insurance. But,¹³ 80% more money in settlements comes to those who do talk to a car accident lawyer first.

¹³ Also, it's common for insurance companies to say no to 45% of first claims.¹³ But, with help from a car accident lawyer, 90% of these denied claims later get approved.¹³ Typically, having a lawyer for a car accident case means getting a settlement three times bigger than the first offer.

If you work with a skilled car accident attorney, things can go a lot smoother with your insurance claim. They'll make sure you don't get less than you need for your recovery and other losses. It's always better than trying to fight the insurance alone.

How Fault is Determined in Oklahoma Car Accidents

In Oklahoma, figuring out fault after a car crash is very important. The person at fault must pay for the damages the others suffered.¹⁴ The state's rule says the person who acted wrongly must pay, so proving who's at fault is critical.¹⁴ If more than one person is at fault, they can all face claims, which might mean more insurance money could be available.¹⁴ Yet, if a driver is found to only be part wrong, their amount of damages can go down by how much they're responsible, up to 50%.¹⁴

Duty of Care

In Oklahoma, they use a system called "comparative negligence." This means everyone in the car crash can get a share of the blame. For instance, one driver might've needed to drive more carefully and follow the rules to avoid hurting anyone.¹⁵

Breach of Duty

Under the law, the accused must have not met their duty to care. This could be by speeding, driving drunk, or not following signs.¹⁵ If more than one person is at fault for a crash, it's known as a multi-vehicle accident.¹⁶ Sometimes both drivers might be equally to blame, like if they both hit each other while backing up without looking. In these cases, they might not have a case against each other.¹⁶

Causation

The person accused had to have caused the crash and the harm to the other.¹⁵ According to the law, if one driver is mostly to blame, they will have to pay more of the damages.¹⁶

Damages

To be eligible for compensation, the injured party must have real losses. This could mean medical bills, damage to their stuff, or lost wages.¹⁵ Not following the rules of the road, such as drunk driving, speeding, and signaling, falls under negligence.¹⁶ After a crash in Oklahoma, drivers must stop, help anyone who's hurt, call the police, and collect proof. But they're told not to talk about who's at fault right there.¹⁶

When looking into accidents, insurance adjusters use different information, like police reports and what everyone says happened.¹⁴ They also check other sources for clues on who's to blame, such as data from the car's systems, security cameras, and videos from inside the cars.¹⁴

Getting advice from a car accident lawyer can help you with the fault process, especially with the insurance companies.¹⁴ They can investigate the accident's cause, gather evidence to support your claim, and talk to the insurance to get a better deal.¹⁴ Lawyers also help victims understand how fault is decided and make sure they get the most compensation for their injuries.¹⁴ Talking to an Oklahoma attorney, like those at Colbert Cooper Hill Attorneys, is crucial. They can help with figuring out fault and navigating the legal road for fair injury compensation.¹⁴

In Oklahoma, if you're partly to blame, your compensation is lowered by your share of fault.¹⁵ If you're more than half at fault, you can't get money from the others.¹⁵ Oklahoma doesn't follow the no-fault system; the driver who made the mistake has to cover the others' damages.¹⁵ Usually, cases are settled without going to court, with the help of lawyers negotiating with the insurers to get a fair deal.¹⁵ To figure out fault in an accident, they look closely at evidence like the police reports, what witnesses say, and any pictures.¹⁵ The way they handle fault and insurance in Oklahoma affects how accidents are dealt with and how money is shared.¹⁵

Car Accident Lawyer | Experienced Legal Representation

An experienced car accident lawyer is crucial for your injury claim's success. They deal with the insurance, gather evidence, and manage medical documents.¹⁷ They also talk with lien holders and work to get you a good deal.¹⁷

Such a lawyer is key in getting you the most money for your injuries and losses.¹⁷ They know how to get around complex legal issues, making sure you get a fair settlement.¹⁷

A skilled car accident lawyer can help get you money for many things. This includes medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.¹⁷ They work hard to make sure you get the most you can for your pain and losses.¹⁷

"Awesome lawyer. Has taken care of me since my first phone call."

"I want to thank you for making my legal situation go so smoothly for me."

"These guys are great, especially David."

Until the insurance completes their investigation, they often don't admit fault.¹⁷ But with an expert lawyer, your chances of winning improve. They handle the legal stuff, protecting your interests.¹⁷

What a Car Accident Lawyer Can Do for You

Getting into a car accident is tough, but a skilled car accident lawyer can help. They make sure you get the money you deserve. They talk with the other driver’s insurance people. This is super important because they control the money.¹⁸

Communicate with the Other Driver's Insurer

Having the right lawyer means they can gather proof to show who's at fault. They collect reports, talk to witnesses, and even check the accident site.¹⁸

Obtain Evidence of Fault

A lawyer is key in showing how much money you’ve lost from the accident. They get your medical records and work with your doctors.¹⁸

Establish Your Losses and Damages

This same lawyer might be able to cut down on what you owe to others, like health or work insurance. They're great at talks, aiming for a good deal with the insurance.¹⁸

Negotiate with Lien Holders and Insurers

Car accident lawyers use their know-how and contacts to boost your chances of getting full money. They fight for what’s rightfully yours after a car crash.¹⁸

Finding the Best Car Accident Attorney

Finding the best car accident attorney means looking at important things. A good guide is needed to pick the right lawyer. They help with choosing the best one for your case.

It's key to find an attorney who knows about car accident cases.¹⁹ They should have over 20 years of experience. Also, look for a lawyer who has won many cases.¹⁹ They must have the skills needed to work on your case well.

Reading what clients say online can tell you a lot about a lawyer.²⁰ The second source says that 85% of cases done by a lawyer got settled. This shows how important a good lawyer is for your case's success.

Feeling at ease with your lawyer is also important.²⁰ A study found that those who hire a lawyer get 3.5 times more in settlements. Your choice should consider how well the lawyer communicates and if they truly want to help you.

Choosing the right lawyer involves careful thought.¹⁹²⁰ Consider their skills, background, and if you get along well. By choosing wisely, you increase your chances of winning fair compensation.

When to Handle a Car Accident Claim Yourself

If you're not badly hurt, can gather evidence easily, and are ready to talk about settling alone, you might handle a claim on your own.²¹ However, it's wise to remember a good lawyer's advice is priceless. It's best to talk to one if the insurance company makes things tough.²¹

Deciding to manage your car accident claim is fine in some cases. But, you need to think about the hurdles carefully. Getting advice from a skilled car accident lawyer could make a big difference. This is especially true for big injuries or when the insurance company is being difficult.²¹

Your Next Steps After a Car Accident

After a car accident, taking quick action is key. You need to protect your rights and any future personal injury claims. The second source says the main steps to follow are:

1. Take photos of the scene, the damage, any injuries, and where it happened²².
2. Get the insurance and contact details from the other driver(s).
3. Report the accident to the police. Then, make sure to get a copy of the official police report²².
4. Reach out to a reliable law firm like Warhawk Legal for advice on what to do. They'll help you understand your legal choices²³.

Acting fast is crucial. Some evidence is better collected right after the accident. By doing these things, you protect yourself legally. It also boosts your chance of winning a personal injury case²².

Why Choose an Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyer

Choosing the right legal help after a car accident is crucial. Warhawk Legal in Oklahoma City is a top choice. They are known for getting the best results for their clients.

Experienced and Award-Winning Attorneys

The team at Warhawk Legal is highly skilled and dedicated. They focus on car accident cases in Oklahoma. With their deep knowledge, they can guide you through the legal system and fight for your rights.

Client-Centric Approach

Warhawk Legal puts their clients first. They create personalized legal plans for each case. This means they really understand your situation and can give you the best help.

Proven Track Record

Warhawk Legal has a strong history of winning for car accident victims. They fight for maximum compensation. This covers everything from medical bills to pain and suffering.

Accessible and Supportive

Warhawk Legal is always there for their clients. They offer support and advice at every step. They know how hard it is after a car accident and aim to help in any way they can.

Fighting for Full Compensation After an Accident

Many times, insurance companies offer less money than victims should get.²⁴ Warhawk Legal works hard to get their clients all the money they are entitled to. This includes paying for medical bills, the cost of damaged property, lost wages, and the pain from the accident.²⁵ The firm knows how hard it is for those who've been in accidents. They fight to help them find justice and the right solutions.

Warhawk Legal has a team of skilled lawyers who aim to win the most for their clients.²⁴ We’ve won big in Texas courts, like being top in auto-pedestrian and car accident cases and for wrongful death claims.²⁵ Our aim is to make sure our clients' settlements cover all their damages, both financial and emotional.

We get that car accidents can turn your life upside down. You're facing big medical bills, lost pay, and the stress of getting better.²⁵ That's why our team is dedicated to dealing with insurance adjusters and others for you. We aim to get you the most money possible so you can move on.²⁴ And, if we settle your case quickly, we might lower our usual fees.

With Warhawk Legal, your case gets the care of professionals who are on your side.²⁵ Don't accept a small settlement - trust us to fight for the whole amount you deserve. It's about rebuilding your life well after a terrible accident.

Conclusion

After a car accident, taking the right steps is very important. It's crucial to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. By talking to skilled car accident lawyers, like the ones at Warhawk Legal in Oklahoma City, you can better your chances of getting fair compensation for your injuries and what you've lost.²⁶

Warhawk Legal is known for fighting hard for their clients' best interests. They focus on great service for their clients, have a strong history of success, and promise to give you clear and helpful advice all through your case.²⁷

The team at Warhawk Legal knows all about car accident cases. They work hard to make sure their clients get the justice they deserve. They're experts at dealing with the claims process, talking with insurance companies, and getting the most compensation possible. That's why they're a trusted choice for folks hurt in car accidents in Oklahoma City.²⁶

If you or someone you care about is in a car accident, acting quickly is key. Contact the experts at Warhawk Legal without delay. They'll help you through each part of the legal process, offering the support and strong representation you need. This will help you face the hard times and reach a positive end to your case.²⁷