Oklahoma City Personal Injury Lawyers You Can Count On
Fighting for the compensation you deserve for your insurance claim
Accidents can happen fast, but the consequences can last for weeks, months or even years. Don't be caught off guard. Get an experienced Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer you can count on in a crisis: Lawter & Associates, PLLC.
Founded in 1974, our legal team has successfully handled a wide range of cases during the past five decades. Our extensive experience has given us an in-depth understanding of how the legal system works here and throughout Oklahoma County and neighboring communities. There’s no substitute for experience.
We leave no stone unturned in pursuit of justice. Whether it’s interviewing witnesses who saw a crash on Reno Avenue or visiting the scene of a collision on North Lincoln Boulevard in search of evidence, our Oklahoma City personal injury attorneys do the work that needs to be done to do the job right.
Our personal injury attorneys proudly serve Oklahoma City
Our law firm has deep roots here. Attorney J. Mike Lawter was born and raised in Oklahoma City. He knows the city and shares your values. He’s familiar with state law. That’s why our firm has such a strong track record of success. In case after case, we consistently obtain sizable settlements and verdicts that allow injury victims and their families to live their lives with dignity.
Remember, you didn’t do anything wrong. You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s reckless or negligent behavior. Make sure your injury receives the attention you deserve. Make sure you talk to an attorney at our law firm today. We’re here to help you get your life back on track, including helping you file a personal injury lawsuit.
“I used Lawter and associates in OKC… Everyone In Office is great and everything is going so smooth, really took a burden off me!” – Keisha A., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Google Average Rating: 4.5/5 stars, 253 reviews
FAQs About Oklahoma City Personal Injury Claims
- What are common personal injury cases?
- What kinds of injuries do accident victims suffer?
- What questions should I ask when choosing a lawyer?
- How much is my claim worth?
- How do I know if I have a personal injury case?
- What expenses can I be compensated for?
- Can I be compensated if I was partially at fault?
- Why is it important to see a doctor after my personal injury?
- Who investigates personal injury accidents in Oklahoma City?
- Should I accept a settlement offer for my injury-related expenses?
- Can I ask for more money if I get a low settlement offer?
- Should I file an Oklahoma City personal injury lawsuit?
- Who can I sue if I’m injured in an accident in Oklahoma City?
- How much time do I have to take legal action?
- How long will my case take?
- Which court handles personal injury lawsuits in Oklahoma City?
- Why should I hire an Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer?
What are common personal injury cases?
Our law firm handles many different types of cases, including:
- Car Accidents – Whether you’re dealing with a rear-end crash on North Broadway Avenue or a head-on collision on North Classen Boulevard, our legal team can fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve for your injuries.
- Truck Accidents – Crashes caused by tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, delivery trucks and other large commercial trucks often cause serious injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt in crash caused by a commercial truck driver, we can help.
- Personal Injury Claims – These complex cases can cover a wide range – from slipping and falling in a restaurant or bar on NW 10th Street to being attacked by a dog in a dog park. Whatever happened to you, we’re on your side.
Is this what happened to you? Or are you dealing with a different type of case? If someone else caused your injury, make sure you take steps to protect your rights. You need to talk to an attorney at our firm.
We know what information to look for, what questions to ask and how to assemble evidence into a strong legal case. As your Oklahoma City personal injury attorneys, we will not rest until justice is served. We will thoroughly investigate your injury and demand the compensation you rightfully deserve. You can also count on us to keep you informed about our progress every step of the way throughout your case.
What kinds of injuries do accident victims suffer?
No two accidents are exactly alike, and the injuries people suffer can range from minor to life-changing. Even what seems like a “minor” injury at first can turn into something serious if left untreated. That’s why it’s so important to see a doctor right away and to understand how your injuries may affect your future.
Some of the most common injuries we see in personal injury cases include:
- Broken bones and fractures: These injuries can require surgery, extended recovery, and months of physical therapy.
- Head and brain injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries may cause dizziness, memory problems, or long-term cognitive issues.
- Back and spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, or even paralysis.
- Severe cuts, bruises, and burns: These wounds can be painful, lead to scarring, and sometimes require skin grafts or reconstructive surgery.
- Soft-tissue injuries like whiplash: Strains and sprains in muscles, tendons, and ligaments are common in crashes, especially rear-end collisions.
- Emotional and psychological trauma: Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress are just as real as physical injuries and can affect your ability to return to normal life.
Whether your injuries heal in a matter of weeks or change your life permanently, you deserve to be taken seriously. With the right legal help, you can pursue the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost income, and the personal toll of your accident.
What questions should I ask when choosing a lawyer?
Many Oklahoma City personal injury attorneys might seem the same if you have been injured in an accident. But it’s important to take into account many important factors when selecting a lawyer to represent you. Some of the questions you might want to ask a prospective attorney include:
- "How much experience do you have?" – Experience matters when it comes to choosing someone to represent you. You would do the same if you were hiring someone to fix your car or operate on you. Why should it be any different when it comes to hiring someone to handle your important legal matter? Your lawyer should know the law and know what to do based on extensive experience – in the courtroom and at the negotiating table with insurance companies.
- "Who will be handling my case?" – Some law firms hand off the bulk of the work on most cases to inexperienced attorneys or paralegals. Ask the attorney you’re meeting with if they will be personally representing you. If not, get a straight answer from them about who exactly will be investigating your accident and building the strongest possible legal case. Also, ask them if they’re prepared to take your case to court if necessary.
- "How well do you know the area?" – Some law firms have offices throughout the country. As a result, their lawyers might not know anything about the area or how the legal system works here. You’re not hiring a lawyer to learn about your community on the job. You should have an attorney who knows Oklahoma City (and its legal system) and who you can talk with in person anytime to find out the status of your case.
- "What kind of cases do you normally handle?" – Ask the lawyer if they have handled cases like yours in the past. This is especially important if you have been hurt in a serious accident caused by another driver. You want an attorney who knows what to expect and what to do to build the strongest possible case. It’s also important to have a lawyer who knows how to prepare cases like yours for trial if necessary.
- "How much do you charge?" – Your money matters. If you have been hurt in an accident, you should not have to pay a fortune for top-notch legal representation. That’s why it’s important to ask a lawyer how much they charge for their services. Many law firms that handle cases for injury victims do so on a contingency fee basis. That means you only pay a percentage if you obtain financial compensation in the form of a settlement or verdict.
Information is power. The more you know, the smarter your decisions. Make sure you take the time to pick the right Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer for you. Make sure you get the answers you deserve.
How much is my claim worth?
Expenses can add up fast when it comes to personal injury accidents in Oklahoma City. If someone else caused your injury, you should receive financial compensation for all your expenses. This includes any expenses immediately after you sustain your injury, including emergency medical care, overnight hospital bills, surgical procedures and replacement income during your recovery.
In addition, your settlement claim or verdict should also include all future expenses. That’s because you often only have one opportunity to obtain compensation for your injury. Once you accept an offer, you often cannot ask for more money in the future. That’s why it’s critical that you know exactly how much your claim is worth.
An experienced attorney can help calculate the estimated worth of your claim. They know how to accurately estimate past, current and future expenses related to your injury. They can also work with you to demand maximum financial compensation.
To learn more about your legal rights, contact our law firm and schedule a free case evaluation. Call (866) 584-1027 or schedule an appointment online. We’re conveniently located in downtown Oklahoma City on North Classen Boulevard near Memorial Park.
How do I know if I have a personal injury case?
If you were injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence in Oklahoma City, you might have a personal injury case. Negligence means that someone failed to act responsibly, and their actions (or inaction) caused your injury. Signs that you may have a case include:
- Someone else was clearly at fault, such as a reckless driver or negligent property owner.
- You sustained injuries that required medical attention, like broken bones or whiplash.
- You experienced financial losses, such as medical bills or lost wages, as a result of the accident.
In Oklahoma City, a personal injury case often requires clear evidence of fault, including photos, witness statements, or official reports. Additionally, the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life play a major role in whether you have a valid claim.
But you don’t have to deal with your accident on your own. An experienced Oklahoma City personal injury attorney can answer your questions, explain your options, and get right to work on your legal case. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will likely be, as evidence is preserved and the memories of witnesses remain fresh.
What expenses can I be compensated for?
After a personal injury accident in Oklahoma City, you may be eligible to receive financial compensation for a wide range of expenses. This compensation is designed to help you recover financially, physically, and emotionally from your injuries. Common expenses include:
- Medical bills: Emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical needs.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income you lost while recovering from your injuries.
- Property damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged property, like your vehicle.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
Compensation may also cover long-term needs, such as ongoing physical therapy, assistive devices, or modifications to your home if your injuries resulted in a permanent disability. Additionally, if you require future surgeries or rehabilitation, these anticipated costs should be considered. Keep detailed records of all expenses to strengthen your case and ensure no cost is overlooked.
Can I be compensated if I was partially at fault?
Yes, you can still receive compensation even if you were partially at fault for causing the accident, as long as your fault does not exceed 50%. Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Here’s how it works:
- If you are found partially at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would receive $80,000.
- If you are more than 50% at fault, you may not be eligible for any compensation.
This rule ensures that victims who share some responsibility for an accident are not completely barred from recovering damages. However, disputes over fault are common in personal injury cases, especially when multiple parties are involved. Collecting solid evidence, such as accident reports or expert testimony, can help clarify your level of responsibility and protect your right to compensation. Hiring a lawyer is also critical to improving your ability to obtain compensation after your Oklahoma City personal injury accident.
Why is it important to see a doctor after my personal injury?
Seeing a doctor after your accident is critical for both your health and your legal case. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, but early diagnosis can prevent complications. Reasons to see a doctor include:
- Health and safety: Delaying medical care could make your injury worse or even life-threatening.
- Evidence for your case: Medical records provide proof that you were injured and connect those injuries to the accident.
Additionally, seeking medical attention promptly shows that you took your injuries seriously, which is often important when dealing with insurance adjusters or in court. Failing to see a doctor could allow the opposing party to argue that your injuries were minor or unrelated to the accident. Also, make sure you follow your doctor’s instructions, including follow-up treatment plans or referrals to see another doctor. This demonstrates your commitment to your recovery.
Who investigates personal injury accidents in Oklahoma City?
Depending on what type of personal injury accident you’re dealing with in Oklahoma City, several local, state, or federal entities may investigate to determine fault and gather evidence. These include:
- Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD): Investigates car accidents and other incidents within city limits.
- Oklahoma Highway Patrol: Investigates severe or fatal motor vehicle accidents on state roads or federal highways, sometimes in conjunction with the OCPD.
- Federal agencies: Accidents involving commercial vehicles often include federal agencies, such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Insurance adjusters: Review evidence and assess claims, though their goal is often to minimize payouts.
- Your lawyer: An Oklahoma City personal injury attorney can conduct an independent investigation, collect evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
In more complex cases, accident reconstruction experts may also be involved to analyze how the incident occurred. For premises liability cases, local health and safety inspectors or regulatory agencies may examine the property for violations. Each of these investigations can provide valuable information to support your claim.
Should I accept a settlement offer for my injury-related expenses?
You should not accept a settlement offer without first consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often make low settlement offers at first. They do this because they want to resolve claims quickly and save money. Before accepting any settlement offer, consider these questions:
- Does the settlement cover all your current injury-related expenses?
- Do you expect to have significant future expenses due to your personal injury?
- Have you fully recovered from your injuries?
- Do you still need ongoing care?
- When can you return to work after your injury?
It’s important to consider the long-term financial impact of your injuries. A quick settlement may seem appealing, but if it doesn’t account for future medical expenses or lost earning capacity, you could end up paying out of pocket later. Always review settlement offers carefully to make sure they address all areas of compensation you are entitled to. A lawyer can help you review any settlement offers you receive for your Oklahoma City personal injury accident.
Can I ask for more money if I get a low settlement offer?
Yes, you can ask for more money if you believe the settlement offer is too low. This is known as negotiating a settlement, and it’s often necessary to make sure you receive fair compensation. Steps you can take include:
- Reviewing the offer with your lawyer: They can determine whether the amount is sufficient to cover your expenses.
- Providing additional evidence: Documents like medical records and repair estimates can strengthen your case.
- Filing a lawsuit: If negotiations fail with the at-fault party’s insurance company, your lawyer may recommend taking legal action and filing a personal injury lawsuit seeking damages, the legal term for financial compensation.
Negotiations can sometimes uncover hidden costs or factors that were overlooked in the initial offer. Being prepared with strong documentation and a clear understanding of your expenses can help you secure a better outcome and build a strong case for the money you deserve.
Should I file an Oklahoma City personal injury lawsuit?
Filing a lawsuit may be necessary, especially if the at-fault party’s insurance company denies your claim or offers an unfair settlement. A lawsuit allows you to seek full compensation and hold the responsible party accountable. You should consider filing a lawsuit if:
- Liability is disputed, and the other party refuses to accept responsibility.
- Your injuries are severe, requiring significant compensation.
- Settlement negotiations have failed, and you need to escalate your case.
A lawsuit also enables you to gather additional evidence through legal tools like depositions and subpoenas. While many personal injury claims settle out of court, being prepared to litigate can increase the pressure on the opposing party to make a fair offer.
Who can I sue if I’m injured in an accident in Oklahoma City?
You may be able to sue any party whose negligence caused your Oklahoma City personal injury accident. Potential defendants in personal injury cases can include:
- A negligent driver: If a reckless or distracted driver caused a car accident.
- A property owner: If unsafe conditions, like a wet floor or broken handrail, caused your injury.
- A product manufacturer: If a defective product injured you.
In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility, such as a driver and their employer in a commercial vehicle accident. Identifying all liable parties ensures that you pursue the maximum compensation available for your injuries.
How much time do I have to take legal action?
In Oklahoma, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. Important things to remember include:
- Missing the deadline typically means losing your right to recover financial compensation.
- Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthen your case.
Just because you have two years to take legal action does not mean you should wait until the last minute to file a lawsuit. Often, the sooner you take legal action, the stronger your case. In addition, some exceptions to this deadline may apply, such as for cases involving minors or government entities. Understanding these timelines is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring your claim is filed correctly.
How long will my case take?
It’s natural to want answers right away after an accident, and one of the first questions people ask is how long their case will take. The truth is every claim is different. Some resolve quickly, while others take more time depending on the circumstances.
A few factors that can affect the timeline include:
- The severity of your injuries: If you’re still receiving treatment, it may be best to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement so the full extent of your damages can be calculated.
- Disputes over liability: If the insurance company argues about who caused the accident, this can slow down negotiations.
- The insurance company’s willingness to negotiate: Some companies make fair offers early on, while others drag out the process and use stalling tactics.
- Whether your case goes to trial: Many cases settle out of court, but if a fair settlement can’t be reached, litigation can extend the timeline.
Some claims can be resolved in a few months, while others may take a year or more. While waiting can feel frustrating, moving too fast often means accepting less than what your case is really worth. Our goal is always to keep your case moving forward while making sure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Which court handles personal injury lawsuits in Oklahoma City?
Most personal injury lawsuits in Oklahoma City are typically handled in the state or federal courts, depending on the case. Common courts include:
- Oklahoma County District Court: Handles cases involving local parties and claims for damages exceeding $10,000.
- U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma: Federal court may be appropriate for cases involving parties from different states or federal claims.
The choice of court depends on factors like the amount of money being sought and whether federal laws apply. Filing in the correct court ensures your case proceeds smoothly and within the appropriate jurisdiction.
Why should I hire an Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer?
Hiring an experienced Oklahoma City personal injury attorney can significantly improve your ability to recover the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your claim or lawsuit. A lawyer can:
- Investigate your case: Collect evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong legal argument.
- Negotiate with insurers: Ensure you’re not pressured into accepting a low settlement.
- File a lawsuit: Your attorney can submit all the necessary paperwork and build a strong legal case on your behalf.
- Represent you in court: Lawyers with courtroom experience can aggressively advocate for you in court and know how to deal with judges and juries.
- Maximize your compensation: Accurately calculate your losses, including non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
In addition, lawyers are skilled at identifying all potential sources of compensation, including underinsured motorist coverage or third-party liability. Their experience allows you to focus on your recovery while they handle the complexities of your Oklahoma City personal injury case.
In a city of over 600,000 people, accidents happen every day. You may have been struck by a distracted driver on Interstate 40 or involved in a head-on collision on Route 77. Perhaps you were injured by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel on 10th Street near Midtown.
Car accidents can leave people seriously injured. You may be dealing with medical bills, physical therapy, lost wages and other expenses. To get the compensation you need, turn to the law firm Oklahoma City trusts. Call Lawter & Associates to speak with an experienced attorney. Read More.
As the largest city in Oklahoma and a major regional center, Oklahoma City sees plenty of commercial trucks pass through every day. Unfortunately, that means truck accidents happen daily. You or a loved one may have been hit by a speeding trucker on Interstate 35 or a distracted truck driver on Interstate 44.
These accidents can cause devastating injuries and extensive property damage. Because the trucking companies often have well-paid attorneys and insurance companies on their side, you’ll need our help to get the compensation you deserve and hold them accountable for their negligence. Read More.
With hundreds of thousands of people passing through the city every day, accidents are a fact of life. After a slip-and-fall accident at a local business or a dog attack in the suburbs, you’ll need an attorney who can fight for the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies aren’t on your side, but we are.
Knowing what to do after an accident can be confusing. That’s why it’s critical you have someone on your side with years of experience handling complicated legal cases. We’re here to help you make things right.
Directions
From the north
Take I-35 South.
Keep right at the fork to continue on I-44, follow signs for Lawton/Amarillo.
Use the left lane to take exit 125B toward Classen Boulevard.
Continue onto Classen Cir/Northwest Expressway.
Slight right to stay on Classen Cir/Northwest Expressway.
Turn left onto North Classen Boulevard.
Our office is on the right.
From the south
Take I-35 North.
Continue onto I-235 N (signs for Oklahoma Health Center)
Take exit 3 toward N. 36th Street.
Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto NW 36th Street.
Turn left onto North Classen Boulevard.
Our office is on the right.
From the east
Head west on NE 36th Street.
Turn left onto North Classen Boulevard.
Our office is on the right.
From the west
Head east on Oklahoma 66 East.
Continue onto I-44 E/OK-66 East.
Take exit 125A for Pennsylvania Avenue.
Keep right at the fork and merge onto North Pennsylvania Avenue.
Merge onto N Pennsylvania Avenue.
Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto NW 39th St
Turn right onto North Classen Boulevard.
Our office is on the right.
Lawter & Associates, PLLC
3313 N Classen Boulevard
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Phone: (405) 525-4131