Stress due to the coronavirus can make car accidents more likely to happen. Know what you need to do to protect yourself in the event of a collision.
With Tulsa and the entire state of Oklahoma on shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, local roads and highways have seen a dramatic decrease in traffic. While less cars on the road generally reduces car accident risks, the stress surrounding the situation makes dangerous driving behaviors more likely to occur. Motor vehicle accidents are a serious concern during this time, and as a driver, you need to be aware of how to protect yourself.
Our Team Is Here To Assist You Every Step Of The Way.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYSituations Surrounding the Coronavirus Increases Car Accident Risks
Following guidelines from the state, the Mayor of Tulsa has ordered all residents to remain at home. With schools and non-essential businesses closed, the only people who should be out on the roads are those in need of supplies and workers providing essential services. Unfortunately, getting residents to adhere to these restrictions has proved challenging. According to an April 3, 2020 report by Tulsa World, local police departments have been inundated with calls and complaints about people engaging in reckless behavior and violating social distancing guidelines.
All of us are under a great deal of stress as we worry about ourselves, our friends, and our family members. This ends up impacting driving behavior, making car accidents more likely to happen. Speeding or going too fast for conditions, aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, and distracted driving are all contributing factors. If you must go out, be aware of places that put you at greater risk for car crashes and collisions. These include:
- Heavily traveled roads near shopping centers;
- Highways and side streets near hospitals and medical centers;
- In parking lots, where panicked people may not look before pulling in or out of spaces;
- Near parking lot entrances or exits and around driveways in local neighborhoods.
Steps to Protect Yourself in the Event of a Car Accident in Tulsa
Under Title 47 of the Oklahoma Statutes, drivers are required to stop at the scene of an accident, exchange information with others involved, and report crashes resulting in injuries or property damages. Not adhering to these requirements could result in criminal charges and jeopardizes your rights in a car accident claim. However, due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus, it is important to take additional precautions. These include:
- Notify law enforcement immediately, but be aware that with the current situation there may be delays in response times;
- Stay at least six feet away from officers and other drivers involved;
- Do not touch anyone’s driver’s license, insurance cards, or other types of identification;
- Use your own pen to jot down details about the accident;
- With hospitals overrun with coronavirus cases, get guidance from your medical provider on seeking treatment for injuries.
Our Tulsa Car Accident Attorneys are Here to Help
When car accidents happen, BDIW Law helps you get the compensation you need to recover. To discuss your case, contact our Tulsa car accident attorneys today.
