2024 What to Do After a Car Accident in Tulsa?

It is not uncommon for victims in car collisions to not know what steps to take after their accident, and even if they do, the shock and bodily harm can cloud decision-making skills. Whether you’re planning ahead in case of an accident or need to know because you were just in an accident, read along if you have questions about what to do after a car accident in Tulsa, OK.

What to Do and Keep in Mind Following a Car Crash

• Get out of the way: Getting to safety should be the first priority. If possible, and if you’re physically capable, move your vehicle somewhere out of harm’s way or out of the paths of others. Use your hazard lights to indicate an emergency to the drivers around you if you need to weave through heavy or bustling traffic.Then, you’ll want to assess your surroundings. If you notice the other vehicles involved sustained heavy damage or can see the occupant(s) are injured, promptly call 911. If you know any of the injuries sustained by those in the accident, be sure to relay the details to the dispatcher. Even if there are no obvious major injuries, it is still recommended to request an officer at the accident’s location.
• Tend to your and others’ injuries: Take note of any bodily harm immediately apparent to your person. Adrenaline and shock may dull the sensation or pain of serious wounds, so it’s important to check. If you have sustained a severe injury, try to remain calm and not move more than necessary.If you are well enough to move, gauge the damages of any other individuals involved. If you can, assist them however you can. If you’re qualified to provide first aid, do so. If not, offer emotional support until emergency medics arrive.
• Gather information about the incident from witnesses: After the physical health of everyone affected is accounted for, you may wish to get the contact information of any eyewitnesses of the accident and the other involved parties. Law enforcement will do this as well, but you may want to ensure no details are missed or have the facts for your own records. Being able to get in touch with a witness who can share their testimony may be a crucial resource in the event of a personal injury claim.
• Proceed to notify your insurance provider and personal injury lawyer if you have one: Report the car accident by calling your insurance company or filling out a form online. It may be useful to do this while still at the scene of the crash so any required information you forgot to collect is still available to you.

Refrain from admitting fault to anyone, including insurance officials and law enforcement. Be honest and forthcoming when questioned by police, but don’t offer up statements that assign yourself blame. You also do not need to answer any questions that make you uncomfortable or you’re unsure about. You may suggest that any officers can speak further with your attorney, even if you are currently without one.

Don’t accept any settlement proposals without consulting with a personal injury lawyer first. If you don’t have an attorney at the time of the accident, begin searching for one quickly. They can ensure you are appropriately compensated by negotiating on your behalf with insurance companies or in a trial, if necessary.

FAQs

Q: What to Do Immediately After a Collision?

A: Assess your injuries and any harm to others involved in the accident. If you are seriously injured, don’t move yourself or your car; remain in place until medical emergency services arrive.

If someone else is seriously injured, don’t move them. Provide first aid if trained, but otherwise offer emotional support. Contact local law enforcement and remain at the scene. Proceed to report the incident to your insurance provider, get any eyewitnesses’ contact info, and consult with a personal injury attorney.

Q: What Happens if You Leave the Scene of an Accident in Oklahoma?

A: Leaving an accident you were involved in is a crime; hit-and-runs have serious consequences. If the accident caused vehicular damage but no injuries, it’s deemed a misdemeanor. Penalties include a $500 fine and/or up to a year in jail.

If there were non-fatal injuries, it’s a felony with up to $1,000 in fines and/or up to two years in prison. A hit-and-run with fatal injuries is a felony carrying up to $10,000 in fines and/or up to 10 years of prison time.

Q: How Do You Move on After a Car Accident?

A: It can be difficult to move on after a traumatic event, especially if the injuries are severe and painful. Don’t hesitate to seek out mental health services to assist you in processing the accident and the feelings that came with it. In Oklahoma, you are entitled to financial compensation for your medical costs and lost income in addition to payment for your physical suffering and emotional distress.

Q: Do You Have to Call the Police After an Accident in Oklahoma?

A: Regardless of how minor the accident was, each driver is expected to stop to exchange contact information and insurance details. If the property damage is less than $300, then it’s optional to call the police. In the event someone may have been severely injured, you are legally obligated to contact law enforcement. After hitting an unattended vehicle or object, such as a fence, calling the police is optional, but you are still expected to leave contact information.

Don’t Suffer Silently: We Will Fight for You

222 Injury Lawyers legal firm knows how intimidating and inconsiderate insurance companies can be as an injured person seeking compensation without legal representation. Our lawyers are equipped to aggressively litigate your case, ensuring the unnecessary harm and damages thrust upon you are financially compensated for.

With our skilled help and guidance, the process doesn’t need to be excessively drawn out, confusing, or stressful. Allow our experience to work in your favor in anticipating the potential hurdles you’ll face and prevent insurance companies from trying to deny you your full compensation.