Hit-and-run accidents are often some of the most complex collisions you can be involved in. This is because before starting your claim, you must determine who is responsible for causing your injuries. While you recuperate, get an experienced legal advocate on your side.
Reach out to a respected Oklahoma City hit-and-run accident lawyer at BDIW Law for a 100% free consultation today. When you do, a Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer can help you more about how the hit-and-run accident claims process works, how much compensation you could be awarded, and how to maximize your settlement.
How to Handle a Hit-and-Run Accident in Oklahoma City
Being struck by a driver who leaves the scene of your accident can be a jarring experience. You may initially feel scared and worried about what to do next. Should you leave the scene yourself? Will anybody believe you?
Your most important step will be to contact 911 and other emergency responders. It would help if you had both EMTs and law enforcement to arrive at your scene. This way, the police can begin investigating and gather valuable forensic evidence that can be used to identify the liable party.
You also need to obtain a medical evaluation. Not only do you need to rule out more severe injuries, but you must begin a paper trail to document the severity of your injuries so their impact cannot be challenged in court.
As soon as you can, make sure you hire a hit-and-run accident attorney in Oklahoma City, OK, for help. While you spend your time healing, figuring out how you will cover your costs, and rebuilding your life, your car accident lawyer can work on building a powerful case against the liable party. This way, once law enforcement identifies them, you will be ready to proceed with your claim.
Our Team Is Here To Assist You Every Step Of The Way.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYCommon Injuries Seen in Hit-and-Run Accidents
Unless you have suffered a life-threatening injury, you may not be sure whether you have grounds for legal action after the hit-and-run accident. However, it is essential to remember that personal injury claims are based on negligence, not the injury you sustained.
If your injuries significantly impacted your life, you may have the right to compensation for your damages. Some of the most common types of injuries your Oklahoma City hit-and-run accident attorney could sue for include:
- Fractured and broken bones
- Whiplash
- Road rash
- Concussion
- Soft tissue injuries
- Traumatic brain damage
- Neck and back injuries
- Amputation
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Third-degree burns
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Internal bleeding and injuries
If you were diagnosed with another injury related to your collision that was not listed above, you may still have grounds for legal action. Your hit-and-run accident lawyer in Oklahoma City, OK, will conduct a thorough investigation and carefully analyze the available details in your case to determine whether you have grounds for legal action.
How Much Your Oklahoma Hit and Run Accident Claim is Worth
Your hit-and-run accident attorney at BDIW Law will need to discuss with you in depth the various ways your life has been affected by the injuries you endured. The only way you can recover maximum compensation for your damages is to ensure every loss is considered as we calculate the value of your claim.
General Damages
General damages describe losses that do not have a financial value. Also commonly known as non-economic damages, general damages can impact you emotionally, make it difficult for you to live your life normally, and have a negative impact on your ability to maintain close relationships with family and friends.
If you are not able to participate in activities you previously loved before the accident, have developed severe anxiety or depression, or are otherwise feeling the effects of having your life turned upside down, these non-monetary losses should be factored in when your attorney determines how much your hit and run accident claim is worth.
Special Damages
Special damages are also commonly known as economic damages. They have set financial values and are easily proven. If you pay out of pocket for any costs, find yourself in debt, or are dealing with other financial implications related to your hit-and-run accident injuries, these damages should be accounted for accordingly.
Exemplary Damages
Exemplary damages are also commonly known as punitive damages. Oklahoma court systems typically only issue punitive damages when the defendant’s conduct is malicious, intentional, or grossly negligent. However, when a driver flees the scene, the court system may find it appropriate to punish them for their actions beyond requiring them to compensate you for your compensable damages. When this happens, court representatives may award punitive damages to deter similar conduct in the future.
How to Demand the Driver Be Brought to Justice
While you wait for investigators to uncover the driver’s identity, you can start to build your case against them. If you purchased no-fault insurance coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you might be able to file a claim with your own insurance provider. However, this is not always a good idea, as the insurance company will likely increase the amount you must pay in premiums or drop you from your policy altogether.
Once the liable party is identified, if they have insurance coverage, you may be able to file a claim with their insurance provider. However, if this insurance coverage does not meet your needs or the driver is uninsured, you may need to be prepared to proceed with a civil lawsuit.
Call a Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Oklahoma City for Help
Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents continued to be a significant issue across Oklahoma City and the entire state. If you have suffered debilitating injuries and do not know where to turn for help, look no further than a dedicated hit-and-run accident attorney in Oklahoma City.
Our firm proudly offers no-cost, risk-free consultations to hit-and-run accident victims across Oklahoma City and surrounding areas. Claim yours as soon as today when you complete our convenient contact form or call our office.
