Car AccidentsOklahoma City Car Accident Lawyer
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that more than 41,000 people in the U.S. die in auto accidents each year. Car accidents are a daily occurrence in Oklahoma. Generally, a lawyer does not need to be involved. But, oftentimes, issues arise about who is at fault (liability) and the damages to which the injured is entitled. These issues can include:
- Driver impairment due to alcohol, drugs, illness and/or fatigue
- Driver distraction, such as talking on a cell phone, eating and many more
- Mechanical failures like tires blowing out or brake trouble
- Road conditions such as potholes or slippery pavement due to heavy rain or ice
- Excess speed or reckless driving
Settling the property damage claim is usually one of the first things an accident victim wants to do. Before we file a lawsuit on your behalf, we will attempt to settle your claim with the insurance adjuster. If the settlement offer proves inadequate, however, we are ready and highly capable of taking the matter to court on your behalf.
You should know that if a lawsuit is filed, the person who caused the accident is almost always represented by an insurance company and its attorneys. Insurance companies defend against personal injury auto accident cases all the time. These companies have a financial incentive to delay paying a settlement for as long as possible and to pay as little in compensation as they can get away with.
At Hasbrook and Hasbrook, we have years of experience dealing with insurance companies in cases involving automobile accidents. We understand the tactics insurance companies employ to prevent people from getting just compensation, and can increase your chances of obtaining all of the compensation to which you are entitled. We will deal with the insurance company to increase your chances of appropriate compensation.
If you are involved in an Oklahoma car accident, we recommend that you do all of the following, if possible, to help us help you win your case:
- Get the contact information of the person who caused the accident. The information should include the license plate number and insurance information
- Get the contact information for anyone present during the accident. Impartial witnesses often make the difference in a case’s outcome when, for example, two drivers blame each other
- Insist that the police officer at the accident scene write up an accident report
- Take photos of your car, the car that belongs to the person who caused the accident, and the area surrounding the accident scene
- Document as much as you can about the accident, including how the accident happened, damage to your car, and any injuries sustained
- Seek medical attention immediately. Remember to explain to your doctor how the injuries occurred
- Be mindful that any insurance adjuster who calls you is calling on behalf of both the insurance company and the person who caused the car wreck
- Contact us as soon as possible for representation
Frequently Asked Questions about Car Accidents
1) Do I need a lawyer if I have been involved in a car accident?
Anytime you have been involved in a car accident, it is a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney to explore your options. If there has been an injury, there may be financial consequences, including medical bills and lost wages from when you are out of work. And it may not be clear right away who the liable party or parties are. An experienced personal injury attorney can sort this information out for you and will evaluate your case free of charge. If he or she determines you have a valid case, you pay no money up front. If your attorney wins a judgment or settlement for you, he or she will take the fee out of the settlement. If you do not win a judgment or settlement, you pay nothing.
2) How much might I receive as a result of my claim?
If another party is found to be responsible for your injuries, you are entitled to be compensated financially for all expenses resulting from the accident. This can include medical bills, lost wages, loss of enjoyment of life, pain and suffering and property damage. Sometimes, a settlement can be negotiated with the insurance company representing the responsible party. Otherwise, the case may go to court. The amount you can receive depends on the severity of your injuries, the amount of time you are out of work and other factors.
3) What if the insurance adjuster tells me I don’t need a lawyer and offers me a settlement?
Insurance companies want to keep the amount of money they pay out as low as possible. Don’t agree to any settlement without consulting with your own personal injury attorney. He or she will be able to determine how much you are entitled to receive.
4) Do I collect money from my own insurance company?
Generally, if the other driver is deemed to be at fault, you collect from his or her insurance company. If that driver does not have insurance, your claim is handled by your insurance company under what is known as Uninsured Motorist coverage.
5) What do I do about the bills that come in while my case is being adjudicated?
It is important to pay all the bills you incur as a result of the accident. Keep good records of everything you pay out. When the settlement is negotiated, you will receive a lump sum payment to cover all your expenses and damages.
