When you are struck by a driver that fled the scene, you may feel as though all hope is lost. However, with help from the Oklahoma state police, local investigators, and your dedicated Oklahoma hit-and-run accident attorney at BDIW Law, you can make sure the at-fault party pays.
You have the right to total compensation for your suffering when another party’s negligence causes your injuries. Get help holding them accountable when you contact BDIW Law for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Oklahoma
Your hit-and-run accident lawyer in Oklahoma will need to carefully review the individual details of your case so we can determine how the accident occurred. Although the driver fled the scene, that does not necessarily mean that they were driving in an unsafe manner or is responsible for causing the accident, though this is often the case.
Some of the most common reasons hit-and-run drivers might flee car accidents include:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)
- Driving over the speed limit
- Driving while fatigued
- Distracted driving
- Failure to yield or stop
- Making illegal turns
- Hazardous road conditions
- Failure to check blind spots
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Driving without a valid driver’s license
- Driving without insurance
- Fleeing a crime or traffic violation
These are just a few of the more common reasons hit-and-run accidents happen. However, if our investigation reveals another cause of your accident, you may still have grounds for legal action. It is important to remember that the driver that fled the scene may not always be 100% liable for your injuries.
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SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYSuing the Person Responsible
If we discover another party contributes to your injuries, we will be ready to pursue legal action against them so you can maximize the compensation you recover. Some examples of other parties who could share fault include:
- The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT)
- Local municipalities
- Government agencies and officials
- Motor vehicle dealerships and executives
- Motor vehicle maintenance workers
- Safety inspectors
- Auto parts designers, suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors
Ways to Recover Compensation for Your Damages
Although dealing with a complicated legal case is the last thing you want to have to deal with, your hit-and-run accident attorney in Oklahoma will be at your side to analyze the individual circumstances of your case and discover which legal options are most suitable. Some of the most popular options include:
- Filing a claim with the hit-and-run driver’s insurance company
- Filing a no-fault insurance claim through your insurer
- Filing a civil lawsuit against the driver that hit you
- Filing a general liability insurance claim against other liable parties
- Filing a civil lawsuit against anyone who contributed to the injuries you sustained
When to File an Oklahoma Hit-and-Run Accident Claim
The best way to find out whether you have grounds for a civil claim or insurance settlement is by speaking with your hit-and-run accident attorney about the details of your case. However, you may be sitting in your hospital bed wondering whether you should call a lawyer for help.
For your claim to be successful, your attorney must show another party is responsible for causing your injuries. Furthermore, your injuries must have had or are expected to have a considerable impact on your life. As long as these criteria are met, you may have the right to compensation for your damages.
Potentially Recoverable Damages After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Oklahoma
There is no loss you have endured that should not be repaid. Although no amount of compensation is going to make up for or change the trauma you experience, it can help you rebuild your life and set yourself up for future success. Some examples of monetary or economic damages you could recover include:
- Lost wages
- Loss of health insurance provided by your employer
- Loss of retirement savings contributions from your employer
- Loss of sick time, vacation time, and other paid time off
- Loss of salary increases, bonuses, and promotional opportunities
- Reduced earning capacity
- The cost of your hospital stay and ambulance bills
- Prescription medication fees and co-pays
- Costs of medical devices and equipment
- Damage to your vehicle
- The diminished value of your vehicle
- Costs of childcare and household maintenance fees
However, you also have the right to compensation for how your life has been affected by your hit-and-run accident injuries. Some examples of non-economic damages that may be recoverable include:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Loss of love and companionship
- Loss of protection and comfort
- Loss of society, guidance, and advice
- Loss of a close, intimate spousal relationship
- Mental anguish and emotional trauma
- Inconvenience
- Shame, indignity, and embarrassment
- Shock, fear, apprehension, and anticipation
- Reputational damages
- Disfigurement and skin scarring
Essential Oklahoma Laws You Must Know
There are multiple Oklahoma personal injury laws you should be aware of as you begin to navigate the claims process. These laws could impact your ability to proceed with your claim and the compensation you win. Some of the most notable include:
- When filing a claim with the insurance company, you will do so with the liable party’s insurer first since Oklahoma follows fault insurance laws.
- You have up to two years from the date of the accident to file your claim according to the Oklahoma personal injury statute of limitations.
- If you are partially responsible for causing the accident, under OK’s modified comparative negligence laws, you can still recover compensation for your damages.
Modified comparative negligence allows you to claim damages if your portion of the fault is less than 50%. You can expect your settlement to be reduced to account for your portion of liability as well. For instance, if you were 40% responsible for causing your injuries, expect your settlement to be reduced by 40%.
Demand Justice with Help from an Oklahoma Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
Although you may not yet know the identity of the individuals that hit you before fleeing the scene, it is only a matter of time before your legal advocate and professional investigators uncover their identifying information. In the meantime, you can start building a powerful case against them to pursue your insurance and civil claims.
When you are ready to find out how much your case is worth and learn about your next steps, do not hesitate to reach out to a knowledgeable and experienced Oklahoma hit-and-run accident attorney at BDIW Law. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation when you complete our quick contact form or call our office today.
