Oklahoma Car Attorneys Answer Accident FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

You were involved in a car crash that was caused by another party and now you're dealing with the stressful aftermath. The at-fault driver and their insurance company is disputing your claim, the medical bills are piling up, you're not sure when you can return to work - you are feeling so overwhelmed trying to tackle all of these issues at the same time that it's causing you a splitting headache! However, you can improve your situation by knowing the answers to the right questions. We have provided the following FAQ to help you and others like you out.

What should I do immediately after a traffic accident in Oklahoma?
How long do I have to file a lawsuit in OK?
What is the minimum auto insurance coverage in Oklahoma?
What if the at-fault driver does not have adequate coverage?
If I file a claim on my own auto policy, won't my rates go up?
What is comparative negligence and how does this legal concept apply to my claim case?
Why should I hire you?
Will I need an attorney to handle my Oklahoma car accident claim?
What determines who is responsible for a traffic accident?
What damages can I recover after an auto accident in Oklahoma?
How much time do I have to take legal action after a traffic accident?
How should I respond to insurance companies after my Oklahoma auto accident?

Q: What should I do immediately after a traffic accident?

A: There are five essential steps you should take after a car accident to ensure that your claim remains viable:

Get immediate medical attention.
Gather important information and possible evidence, including contact info of involved parties and witnesses, police and medical reports, pictures and video footage if available and other essential materials.
Do not talk to anyone about your accident. Remember that your words can and will be used against you.
Avoid talking to the insurance adjuster or signing anything before you…
Consult with an Oklahoma car accident lawyer.

Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

A: In Oklahoma, the statute of limitations for auto accident claims is two years from the date of the incident. While this may seem like plenty of time, it is best for you to file your claim as soon as possible. Evidence tends to fade with time, so the earlier your attorney can start investigating your case, the stronger your claim will be down the line.

Q: What is the minimum auto insurance coverage in Oklahoma?

A: In Oklahoma, the minimum liability limits are $25,000 per injured individual, $50,000 for all injuries in one accident and $25,000 for property damage.

Q: What if the at-fault driver does not have adequate coverage?

A: If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can pursue compensation for injuries caused by the uninsured/underinsured motorist from your own insurance company. However, if you also want payment for property damage repairs, you have to have collision coverage.

Q: If I file a claim on my own auto policy, won't my rates go up?

A: No. According to Section 941 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code, your company cannot assign driving record points, cancel, refuse to renew or increase the premium rate of your insurance policy for an accident that was not your fault.

Q: What is comparative negligence and how does this legal concept apply to my claim case?

A: Under this concept, the amount of compensation you are eligible to receive from the insurance company in the event of an accident is inversely correlated to your percentage of fault. For example, if your total damages in a claim case is determined to be $10,000, but you were 25 percent at fault for the incident, you will be awarded $7,500 ($10,000 – (25 percent of $10,000)).

Q: Why should I hire you?

A: Consult with Car Accident Help today for reliable legal guidance. In your stead, we can handle your legal and financial matters so you can relax and focus on your recovery. Our legal team will do their best to get you the compensation you need not only to heal but also to secure future stability. For a free, comprehensive consultation, please call us today at (405) 285-4357.

Q: Will I need an attorney to handle my car accident claim?

A: Pursuing a car accident claim can be very complicated, and attempting to navigate such a complex situation on your own, especially if you have been seriously injured, may not be in your best interest. Depending on the circumstances of the crash, it may be necessary to have a keen knowledge of state and federal injury laws, as well as extensive experience handling a wide range of traffic accident cases. It is highly recommended that you at least consult with an accident attorney to understand your legal rights and options after an accident, no matter how minor the crash. Car Accident Help can provide the information and insight you need to pursue rightful compensation for the damages you have suffered.

Q: What determines who is responsible for a traffic accident?

A: Ultimately, if a traffic accident occurs as a result of another person's negligence or failure to exercise reasonable care, he or she may be held accountable for the consequences. For example, all drivers in Oklahoma are expected to follow the rules of the road in order to prevent accidents, but if a driver violates these rules and crashes into another vehicle, he or she may be liable for the injured party's medical bills and other damages.

In some cases, the cause of the accident may not be so obvious, making it necessary for an attorney to build a strong case on the victim's behalf to recover his or her rightful compensatory award. If the other driver is not identified, such as in a hit and run case, you may still be entitled to receive compensation from your own insurance provider. Speak with an attorney as soon as you can after a traffic accident to ensure that your rights are protected.

Q: What damages can I recover after an auto accident?

A: The amount of damages you may be eligible to recover will be based on the type of damages related to your accident, such as out-of-pocket expenses, medical bills, lost earning capacity, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Car Accident Help will be able to assess that total damages that you or your loved one has sustained in an accident and then fight on your behalf to obtain the financial compensation you need and deserve from the at-fault party.

Q: How much time do I have to take legal action after a traffic accident?

A: According to Oklahoma statute title 12 § 95, you have only two years to take action against the at-fault party for your traffic accident. However, it is crucial that you do not wait too long or you may unintentionally jeopardize your chance for a successful claim. A successful claim often requires time-sensitive evidence that may not be available if you wait too long. An experienced attorney with adequate resources may gather police reports, accident reconstruction reports, and other evidence to support your case.

How should I respond to insurance companies after my auto accident?

It is okay to speak with your insurance provider, but do not communicate with the other party's insurance adjustor or sign anything from them. Always consult with your Oklahoma car accident attorney about the best course of action to take.

The Importance of an Injury Attorney

Anyone who has been seriously hurt or has been involved in a complex accident (including rideshare, Lyft, and Uber accidents) should discuss their options with an attorney. Insurance companies have experienced adjusters and attorneys on their payroll who protect their bottom line and do everything they can to prevent or minimize a payout. You need a vocal advocate on your side, an injury lawyer who has a successful track record handling cases similar to yours. You need a lawyer who is a skilled negotiator, but one who also has trial experience.

Keep in mind that you have nothing to lose by contacting an attorney. Many lawyers work on a contingency basis. This means that you will not have to pay anything until after you win your claim. If you have been injured in an Oklahoma car accident, compensation may be available for all of your current and future related medical bills, lost wages, time away from work, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

After a traffic accident, you or your loved one may have numerous questions about what to do next and how to protect your best interests. Car Accident Help are knowledgeable and compassionate auto accident lawyers who understand how life-changing a traffic accident can be. We will take our time to get to know you and your case in order to provide the best possible guidance. If you or a family member has been involved in a car, truck, motorcycle or other type of traffic accident, Car Accident Help is here for you. Call (405) 285-4357 for a free and comprehensive case evaluation.

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.