After an accident that wasn’t your fault, you’re likely overwhelmed and full of questions. Who should I call for legal help for my specific injury? How do I know if I have a case? What if I am partly at fault? If you’re thinking it, we’ve heard it.
If you have questions about your rights after an accident, our personal injury team here at Parrish DeVaughn has answers. Reach out to us today to learn more in-depth about your legal options.
In the meantime, below are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers for you to review at your convenience.
What is considered a personal injury in Oklahoma?
“Personal injury” simply means you were hurt because someone else was careless and failed to take the proper precautions. There are many situations where a personal injury can occur including a car crash, a fall, a dog bite, a defective product, etc.
If you were injured and it wasn’t your fault, or even if the accident was partly your fault, you may have the right to seek compensation. Proving that another party’s negligence caused your injuries is key.
How common are accidents in Oklahoma?
Serious accidents happen across Oklahoma every day. Recent stats show that in Oklahoma City alone, during a four-year period, there were 75,747 motor vehicle crashes in total, and 385 of those were fatal. From busy interstates like I-35, I-40, and I-44 in Oklahoma City and throughout the state, car and truck crashes remain a significant cause of injury and death.
While motor vehicle accidents are prevalent, they aren’t the only accidents we see at our firm. From falls in stores, construction site accidents, oilfield injuries, medical errors, and even dog bites or defective products can change a person’s life forever. We’ve seen it all, and we know that behind every statistic and news report are real people facing unthinkable circumstances.
What should I do after an accident in Oklahoma?
When an accident happens, your priority should always be your health and safety. Get medical attention as soon as possible. You may think your injuries are minor, but some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, don’t always show up right away.
Here’s a quick checklist for protecting your health and your potential claim:
- Call 911 or report the accident to the police if required.
- Take photos or video of the scene, your injuries, and any damage.
- Gather names and contact info for witnesses.
- Keep all medical bills, receipts, and correspondence.
- Avoid giving a recorded statement to the insurance company.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Taking these steps early makes it easier to prove what happened to you and to get the maximum compensation.
What is the deadline for filing a personal injury claim in Oklahoma?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in Oklahoma. That’s called the statute of limitations.
If you wait longer than two years, you could lose your right to file. It doesn’t matter how strong your case is. If you miss the window, your case will be dismissed. There are a few exceptions, like if the injured person was a minor or if the claim involves a government agency. Regardless, it’s always best to act quickly.
This is another reason contacting an experienced personal injury attorney is a good idea. They can look at your specific situation and make sure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
What if the insurance company offers me a quick settlement?
Insurance companies often reach out early with a settlement offer that might seem like a decent offer at first glance. It’s especially tempting when you’re facing medical bills and time off work. But once you accept, you give up your right to ask for more later, even if your injuries turn out to be worse than expected.
Before signing anything, it’s smart to have a personal injury attorney review the offer and calculate the real value of your claim. A lawyer’s calculation will consider the full scope of your present and future damages. They make sure you’re not shortchanged.
What types of compensation can I get after an accident?
In Oklahoma, you may be eligible for compensation for the following damages:
- Medical expenses (present and future)
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage (like vehicle repairs)
- Wrongful death damages, which may include funeral expenses, loss of consortium, and other losses suffered by the family
Every case is different, and your attorney can help you understand what types of damages apply to your situation.
What if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Oklahoma follows a rule called “modified comparative negligence.” That means you can still recover compensation even if you were partly to blame. As long as you weren’t more than 50% responsible, you can still get compensation.
For example, if you were found 20% at fault and your total damages were $100,000, you could still receive $80,000. The key is having an experienced Oklahoma lawyer to prove that the other party bears most of the responsibility.
What are the best hospitals and trauma centers in Oklahoma City?
After a serious injury, getting the right medical care makes all the difference. In and around Oklahoma City, some of the major hospitals and trauma centers include:
- OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center: Level I Trauma Center, handling severe injuries statewide
- INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center: Known for advanced emergency and trauma services
- Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City: Offers comprehensive rehabilitation programs for injury recovery
If you’re outside Oklahoma City, you can go to any one of Oklahoma’s highly regarded facilities.
How can I get a copy of my police report in Oklahoma City?
If your accident was reported to law enforcement, you can request a copy of the report from the Oklahoma City Police Department’s Records Division. You’ll need to provide details like the date, location, and case number if you have it.
You can also request reports online through the Oklahoma State Highway Patrol or other local agencies if your crash happened outside Oklahoma City limits. A copy of your report is critical evidence for insurance and legal claims.
What local resources or support groups exist for injury victims in Oklahoma?
Recovering from a serious injury goes far beyond medical care for physical injuries. The emotional and psychological recovery and a supportive community are just as important. In Oklahoma, several organizations help accident survivors and their families:
- Brain Injury Alliance of Oklahoma (BIAOK): Offers support groups, education, and advocacy for people living with traumatic brain injuries.
- Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Provides resources and peer support nationally for individuals adjusting to spinal cord injuries while also advancing research to improve the lives of people and families impacted by spinal injuries.
- Ability Resources: Helps Oklahomans with disabilities live independently and connect with services across the state.
- Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services: Offers employment assistance and vocational rehabilitation for people whose injuries affect their ability to work.
These foundations and programs can provide guidance, emotional support, and community connections every step of your recovery.
Do most personal injury cases in Oklahoma go to court?
Most don’t. Many claims settle out of court through negotiations or mediation. However, our team prepares a strong case as if it’s going to trial. This level of preparation often leads to better settlement offers. If your case does need to go before a judge or jury, we’re ready to handle the legal process and fight for your best outcome.
How do attorney fees work for personal injury cases?
Most personal injury lawyers in Oklahoma work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay any upfront costs, and the lawyer only gets paid if they recover money for you. The fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or verdict, and your attorney should explain those details before you sign anything.
This fee arrangement helps make legal help accessible to anyone, regardless of financial situation.
When should I call a personal injury lawyer?
Immediately. By talking to a lawyer early, you help protect your rights and ensures critical evidence is preserved. It also keeps insurance companies from harassing you or taking advantage of you in the aftermath of your accident.
Even if you’re not sure whether you have a case, you have nothing to lose by calling. It’s worth a free consultation to get answers and peace of mind.
Let Parrish DeVaughn Injury Lawyers Fight for You
When you’re injured, you have enough to handle without dealing with an often complex and confusing legal system. Our team here at Parrish DeVaughn is here to make things feel simpler.
If you were injured in Oklahoma City or anywhere in the state, contact Parrish DeVaughn Injury Lawyers for a free consultation today. We’re here to provide peace of mind and fight for the compensation you need after an accident.
