If you were involved in a car accident in Oklahoma City and sustained severe injuries, you may feel frustrated and unsure of what to do. Not only are you unable to work, but your bills keep piling up, your medical expenses are eating up most of your savings, and your injuries are making it difficult to enjoy life. Sadly, your situation is not uncommon.
Car accident victims are often dealt the short end of the stick. Though insurance policies cover the cost of some expenses, for many accident victims, the policy limits are not enough. Some car accident injuries require tens of thousands of dollars in medical treatment, while others require life-long support.
At BDIW, our Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer can assist you with your claim. If your injuries are severe and you have difficulty obtaining the compensation you need to recover in financial and physical comfort, reach out to an Oklahoma City car accident lawyer at BDIW Law to learn more about your recovery options. We provide our clients with free initial consultations to review their cases.
Who Should Pay After an Oklahoma City Car Accident
Figuring out who is responsible for causing your car accident in Oklahoma City is essential if you hope to recover the compensation you are entitled to. Although you may be anxious to file a claim against the driver who hit you, it may surprise you that several parties share the blame for your injuries. A car accident attorney in Oklahoma City can help you determine who will pay for your injuries.
Auto Parts Manufacturers
Some of the most common parties held accountable after car accidents are auto parts manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and designers. These individuals and organizations must ensure the parts the manufacturer and design are functioning safely. When these agencies use faulty parts to save money or are otherwise negligent in building their products, they can be held accountable for the victim’s damages.
Negligent Drivers
Negligent drivers are frequently held accountable for their unsafe driving. Any driving violation of traffic rules and regulations could be considered negligence. Some of the most common types of negligent driving known for causing collisions include:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Drunk driving
- Failure to use a turn signal
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Distracted driving
- Failure to stop at a traffic light or stop sign
- Making unlawful turns
- Driving while fatigued
Oklahoma City and Government Agencies
Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, and other relevant government agencies must maintain the integrity of the roadways throughout the state. When there are potholes, missing street signs, improperly secured road construction zones, and other dangerous conditions on the Waze, these parties can be sued for the victim’s losses. Talk to our Oklahoma City car accident attorney today.
Our Team Is Here To Assist You Every Step Of The Way.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYWhat to Expect from Negotiations with the Insurance Company
Oklahoma is an at-fault car accident state, meaning that negligent parties can be held liable for any injuries or damages they cause. In most cases, a negligent party’s insurance company will cover the cost of damages and injuries. However, insurance companies like to play hardball, and most offer lowball settlements to injured victims, hoping they will accept.
When a lowball settlement is accepted, the injured party is stuck with it and cannot pursue additional compensation. You can avoid getting stuck with a lowball settlement by doing one of two things – turning down the first settlement you are offered and contacting an experienced Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer. Call us today for a free consultation.
Do not trust the insurance adjuster assigned to your case. Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible for claims. That is why you need an experienced attorney by your side after suffering an injury.
Types of Car Accidents
At BDIW Law, our results-driven and compassionate lawyers have the expertise and resources necessary to protect your rights and help you recover maximum compensation in all types of car accidents. With a free consultation, you can learn about our firm and how we can help you. Our car accident lawyer in Oklahoma City can handle the following types of car accident cases:
- Head-on crashes. This is the most dangerous car accident that often results in devastating injuries and deaths. Head-on crashes occur when the front ends of two cars smash into each other.
- Rear-end collisions. Not all rear-end crashes are minor fender-benders, as some collisions can lead to severe injuries. This type of car accident occurs when a vehicle crashes into the back of the car in front of it.
- Side-impact accidents. Side impacts, also known as side-swipe collisions, happen when one vehicle hits another vehicle on its side. It can result in severe injuries to the driver or passenger on the side where the impact occurs.
- Multi-vehicle crashes. Multi-vehicle accidents involve more than two automobiles.
- Rollover accidents. This type of crash can involve multiple cars or only one vehicle that tips over to the side or rolls over to its roof.
Comprehensive Guide to Handling Car Accident Claims in Oklahoma City
Navigating Car Accident Claims in Oklahoma City: A Step-by-Step Approach
Car accidents in Oklahoma City can be overwhelming, leaving victims with not only physical injuries but also emotional and financial burdens. Understanding the process of handling car accident claims in this bustling city is crucial for securing the compensation you deserve.
Dealing with Insurance Companies: A Tactical Approach
One of the first challenges in a car accident claim is dealing with insurance companies. These companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for minimal amounts. It’s important to recognize that initial offers may not cover the long-term costs of your injuries. An experienced car accident lawyer in Oklahoma City can negotiate with these companies on your behalf, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement that covers all your needs.
Evidence Collection: Building a Strong Foundation
The success of your car accident claim hinges on the strength of your evidence. This includes police reports, witness statements, medical records, and, if available, video footage of the accident. In Oklahoma City, where traffic can be heavy, and accidents frequent, timely and thorough evidence collection is vital. A skilled lawyer from the Boettcher Law Office can manage this process, ensuring that every piece of relevant evidence is gathered to strengthen your case.
Understanding Oklahoma City’s Traffic Laws
Knowledge of Oklahoma City’s traffic laws is essential in determining fault and liability in car accident cases. For instance, if the other party violated a traffic law, such as running a red light, this could significantly strengthen your claim. Your attorney will have a deep understanding of these laws and how they apply to your specific case.
Calculating Damages: Ensuring Comprehensive Compensation
Accurately calculating the damages you are owed is a critical aspect of your claim. This includes immediate medical bills and lost wages, as well as long-term costs like ongoing therapy, future lost income, and pain and suffering. In Oklahoma City, where medical costs can be high, ensuring that you receive adequate compensation is crucial for your financial and emotional recovery.
Negotiation vs. Litigation: Choosing the Right Path
Negotiating with insurance companies and at-fault parties requires skill and experience. Your lawyer will use the evidence and documentation gathered to negotiate a settlement that truly reflects the impact of the accident on your life. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court.
Timely Action: Adhering to Legal Deadlines
In Oklahoma, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. Acting promptly ensures that your claim is filed within this timeframe, as delays can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Case Studies: Success Stories in Oklahoma City
Consider these hypothetical scenarios to understand how these strategies can be applied:
- Complex Intersection Collision: Involving multiple vehicles where the fault was disputed. Through detailed evidence gathering and expert negotiation, the victim received a settlement that covered all medical expenses and compensated for pain and suffering.
- Hit-and-Run Incident: The victim was initially offered a minimal settlement by the insurance company. However, with the help of a skilled attorney, they were able to secure a much more substantial amount that covered all their long-term rehabilitation costs.
Conclusion
Navigating a car accident claim in Oklahoma City requires a comprehensive understanding of local laws, strong negotiation skills, and an ability to accurately calculate and demand fair compensation. With the support of a knowledgeable attorney from the BDIW Law Office, you can confidently pursue your claim, focusing on your recovery while your legal team handles the complexities of your case.
Most Common Car Accident Injuries in Oklahoma City
Under Oklahoma law, all motorists must exercise due care when operating a vehicle. When a driver’s negligent behavior results in a car accident, the injured victim will be entitled to compensation from the negligent motorist. Depending on the type and severity of a car accident, it can lead to the following types of injuries:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injury
- Whiplash
- Back and neck injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Paralysis
- Scrapes, bruises, and cuts
- Lacerations
- Burn injuries
- Foot and leg injuries
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Disfigurement
- Scarring
Note: It is essential to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident to diagnose your injuries, even if you feel completely fine. Often, car accident injuries have delayed symptoms. Documented medical care will assist in the success of your case.
Damages Can You Recover After a Car Accident in Oklahoma
If you have been involved in a car crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your resulting monetary and non-monetary losses. You can recover both economic and non-economic damages in a car accident claim. The following types of damages may be available following a car accident in Oklahoma:
Economic Damages
Economic or special compensatory damages are any monetary expenses and losses incurred by the injured party due to the car crash. You will need to provide your attorney with receipts, invoices, and bills for these damages. Economic damages include:
- Loss of income
- Medical bills (the cost of medical treatment, prescriptions, surgery, etc.)
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Property damage (the cost of repairing or replacing a vehicle following the collision)
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages, or general compensatory damages, refer to abstract losses. However, just because they are abstract does not mean they are not real. These damages refer to any non-monetary losses suffered by the victim, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
Speaking with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Oklahoma to help you calculate your economic and non-economic damages is vital. We will evaluate all the possible damages you can claim and build a case on your behalf. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
Oklahoma Personal Injury Laws that Could Affect Your Settlement
Oklahoma has different laws governing how fault is handled in car accidents. Let an experienced Oklahoma City car accident attorney review your case. Here are some of the most critical injury laws that could impact the compensation you recover in your car accident claim:
Fault Insurance
When living in a fault insurance state like Oklahoma, the liable party’s insurer is supposed to cover the injury victim’s damages. Your car accident lawyer in Oklahoma City, OK, can handle the insurance negotiations on your behalf. We will work to maximize your payout and help you avoid being taken advantage of by the insurance company.
Modified Comparative Negligence
Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence code, so if you share liability for the accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your damages at a reduced rate. For example, if you were found to be 20% liable for causing your injuries, your settlement would be reduced by 20%. If your portion of the fault exceeds 49%, you could lose your right to recover compensation for your losses.
Statute of Limitations
According to Oklahoma Statutes §12-95, the civil court system can only hear cases when claims are filed within two years of the accident. However, there are also instances in which the statute of limitations could be tolled, such as in the case of injuries to minors. According to insurer policy regulations, you might also need to file insurance claims in as few as thirty days.
Why Work with a Car Accident Lawyer in Oklahoma City, OK
The average consumer assumes that an insurance company has their best interests in mind. Unfortunately, that is far from the case. Most insurance companies operate with their bottom lines at the forefront of their minds and try to finagle their way out of paying a fair amount.
Insurance companies and their lawyers are willing to go through several rounds of negotiations before settling on a fair settlement for an accident victim.
In extreme cases, the insurance company and a victim’s lawyers never agree, in which case, the claim goes to trial. An experienced Oklahoma City car accident lawyer can help throughout the claims process. They can coach you through the negotiation process and even step up to the plate on your behalf.
If your case goes to trial, your lawyer can advise you on what you must do to obtain the best possible outcome. Let BDIW Law review your car accident case. Call us to schedule a free consultation today.
Expert Car Accident Lawyers in Oklahoma City
Car accidents can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Oklahoma City, our team of skilled car accident lawyers is ready to provide you with expert legal representation. We understand the challenges you may be facing, and we are committed to helping you seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
FAQs:
Q: How can a car accident lawyer help me after a crash?
A: A car accident lawyer can provide essential guidance and support throughout the legal process. They can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Q: What should I do immediately after a car accident?
A: After a car accident, prioritize your safety and the safety of others. Seek medical attention for injuries, if needed. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) and document the accident scene by taking photos and gathering witness information.
Q: How is liability determined in a car accident case?
A: Liability is determined by assessing factors such as driver negligence, traffic laws, and evidence from the accident scene. An investigation will help establish who was at fault, which is crucial for filing a successful personal injury claim.
Q: What damages can I recover in a car accident claim?
A: You may be eligible to recover various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. A car accident lawyer can help you calculate the full extent of your damages.
Q: How long must I file a car accident claim in Oklahoma City?
A: In Oklahoma, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is generally two years from the accident date. It’s essential to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet all legal deadlines.
Contact Your Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you were seriously injured in a car accident in Oklahoma, you deserve compensation for your injuries and subsequent losses. An experienced Oklahoma City car accident lawyer at BDIW Law will review your case’s circumstances, review the evidence, and do everything possible to maximize your settlement. Contact our Oklahoma City firm through our quick contact form today for a free consultation and get started on your case.
