Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyers Serving Injury Victims
We can fight for a fair settlement on your behalf
The car accident lawyers at our Oklahoma City law firm understand what victims are going through. You’ve been injured in a wreck by no fault of your own. You’re in pain, you can’t work, and your bills are starting to pile up. To add insult to injury, the insurance company won’t stop calling you and harassing you to accept their lowball settlement offer. It’s time to let an experienced attorney at Lawter & Associates, PLLC in Oklahoma City step in and start working for you immediately. Get the insurance company off your back and get the car accident compensation you really deserve. Contact us today for your free consultation.
Oklahoma City is the capital of Oklahoma and the state’s largest city, so it’s no surprise that there’s a lot of heavy traffic in Oklahoma City. Car accidents happen here all the time – some of them leaving people with severe injuries. While no legal action can truly erase the impact of a serious crash, getting an experienced Oklahoma City car accident lawyer on your side can help.
Car accident cases we handle
Our car accident attorneys have been representing crash victims in Oklahoma City and throughout the state for decades. We have the experience and resources to stand up to the insurance company and fight for what’s fair. If you’ve been injured in a collision through no fault of your own, the lawyers at our law firm can get your claim resolved quickly and get you real results. We help crash victims with:
- Rear-End Accidents
- Head-On Collisions
- Distracted Driving Crashes
- Drunk Driving Crashes
- Fatigued/Asleep at the Wheel Accidents
A car wreck can have a significant impact on your life. If you’ve been injured in a collision that wasn’t your fault, you have a real problem and need a real solution. Our Oklahoma City car accident attorneys can help you every step of the way.
“We'd like to thank everyone in your law firm who handled my car accident case… We'd recommend you guys to others who are injured and needed help. You guys are the best." – Van, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FAQs About Oklahoma City Car Accidents
- How do Oklahoma City car accidents happen?
- What are the most dangerous intersections in Oklahoma City?
- What should I do after my car crash?
- What are common injuries from car accidents?
- Where can I get medical attention after a car accident in Oklahoma City?
- How much is my case worth?
- Should I file a lawsuit or an injury claim?
- Should I accept a settlement offer for my car accident?
- What damages can I be compensated for after my Oklahoma City car accident?
- Should I see a doctor after my Oklahoma City car accident?
- Who investigates car accidents in Oklahoma City?
- Who’s responsible for paying for my Oklahoma City car crash?
- How do insurance companies operate after a car accident?
- Can I receive compensation if I was partially at fault for causing my car accident?
- How is fault determined after an Oklahoma City car crash?
- Who determines who was at fault for causing a car accident?
- What is the average car accident settlement in Oklahoma City?
- Who can I sue after my car crash in Oklahoma City?
- How long do I have to file an Oklahoma City car accident lawsuit?
- How long does it take to settle a car accident case in Oklahoma?
- Which court handles car accident lawsuits in Oklahoma City?
- How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Oklahoma City?
- How can an Oklahoma City car accident lawyer help me?
How do Oklahoma City car accidents happen?
Car crashes in Oklahoma City don’t just happen by chance. Most are the result of careless or reckless behavior. Understanding the most common causes can help show why another driver should be held accountable for your injuries. Some of the leading factors we see in collision cases include:
- Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for conditions reduce their reaction time and increase the force of impact in a crash.
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or even adjusting the radio can take a driver’s focus off the road long enough to cause a serious collision.
- Drunk or impaired driving: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction times, and put everyone on the road in danger.
- Failure to yield: Many crashes happen at intersections when drivers ignore stop signs, red lights, or right-of-way rules.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, construction zones, and bad weather can make driving more dangerous. When drivers fail to slow down and use caution, accidents are more likely to occur.
In nearly all of these cases, negligence plays a role. That means the other driver failed to act with reasonable care, and their actions directly led to your injuries. Proving negligence is the foundation of a successful car accident claim. Our Oklahoma attorneys know how to gather the evidence needed to do just that.
What are the most dangerous intersections in Oklahoma City?
An accident can happen anywhere in the city, but some locations are more high-risk than others. Even routine drives can turn dangerous in these areas:
- Northwest Expressway & Belle Isle Boulevard
- Memorial Road & Rockwell Avenue
- North Pennsylvania Avenue & W Memorial Road
- South Klein Avenue & Oklahoma City Boulevard
- Klein Avenue & W Sheridan Avenue
- Reno & South Klein
- W Memorial Road & Pennsylvania Avenue
- SW 62nd Street & S Western Avenue
- SW 59th Street & S Western Avenue
- I-240 & US 77 interchange
- I-40 & I-44 interchange
- I-40 Crosstown (Crosstown Expressway)
- Northwest Expressway (State Highway 3)
- John Kilpatrick Turnpike and other interchanges (I-235, I-240, I-44, I-40)
No matter where in Oklahoma City your car accident occurred, our lawyers can get to the bottom of it. We know the streets here and the hotspots where car accidents are likely to occur.
What should I do after my car crash?
It’s important to take certain steps after an accident to protect your rights and your health. While each Oklahoma City car crash often presents its own unique challenges, here are some of the suggested steps to take immediately afterwards:
- Call the police – Ask them to respond to your crash. Having an official accident report can often make a dramatic difference in the outcome of your case.
- Seek medical attention – Your health and well-being should be your priority. Make sure you have a medical professional examine you right away after your crash. If your accident took place several hours or days ago, have a doctor examine you immediately. You could have a life-threatening injury.
- Take pictures of the crash site – If it’s safe to do so, take pictures of your crash. This evidence can often help build a strong case in support of your injury claim.
- Get the other driver’s personal information – If you’re healthy enough to do so, get their full name, address, driver’s license and insurance information. Feel free to give the same information to the other driver as well.
- Don’t discuss your crash – After exchanging information with the other driver, don’t discuss your collision. Anything you say could later be used by the at-fault driver’s insurance company to reduce or deny your claim.
- Call a lawyer – The sooner you talk to an attorney who knows how to handle accidents in Oklahoma City, the better. There are so many different legal issues you often need to consider after a crash. A knowledgeable lawyer can help you every step of the way.
What are common injuries from car accidents?
Every crash is different, but many car accident victims in Oklahoma City suffer similar types of injuries. Some are minor and heal quickly, while others can change the course of your life.
Some of the most common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries: The sudden force of a collision can strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck and back, often leading to lingering pain and stiffness.
- Broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and hips are especially vulnerable in high-impact crashes and may require surgery or lengthy rehabilitation.
- Head and brain injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can cause memory loss, dizziness, and cognitive issues that may last long after the crash.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine can lead to partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, and major lifestyle changes.
- Internal injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding are not always visible right away, so immediate medical evaluation important.
- Fatal injuries: Sadly, some crashes in Oklahoma City result in wrongful death, which leaves families to cope with devastating emotional and financial losses.
Where can I get medical attention after a car accident in Oklahoma City?
After a car accident, getting medical care should always be your first priority. Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can become life-threatening if untreated. Seeking medical attention also creates a record of your injuries, which can be vital evidence in your case.
In Oklahoma City, accident victims have several options depending on the severity of their injuries. Emergency rooms and trauma centers here include:
- OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center
- Oklahoma Children’s Hospital
- Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City
- INTEGRIS Health Trauma Center
Car accident-focused clinics:
How much is my case worth?
This is the one of the most frequently asked questions people often have after a serious Oklahoma City car crash. Expenses can add up fast. That’s why it’s important that you receive the compensation you deserve for all your expenses.
The value of your injury claim often depends on many different factors, including:
- Severity of your injury
- Length of your recovery
- Whether you can return to work
Based on these important factors – and many others – the value of your case could range from a few thousand to millions of dollars. The bottom line is you can and should be compensated for all your injury-related expenses, whether they’re immediately after your crash or years from now. You should not have to pay for another driver’s reckless or negligent behavior.
Click here to download a printable version.
Should I file a lawsuit or an injury claim?
There are advantages to both strategies depending on the circumstances of your case. Many injured drivers or passengers begin by filing an injury claim and seeking a settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
However, this approach may not work in certain cases. Sometimes, it’s because the insurance company makes a lowball settlement offer that doesn’t even come close to covering all your expenses. Other times, they might deny your claim altogether.
In such cases, filing a lawsuit may be the best way to demand the money you deserve. Just remember that you only have two years from the date of your crash to file a lawsuit or take other legal action under Oklahoma law.
Should I accept a settlement offer for my car accident?
Accepting a settlement offer for your Oklahoma City car accident can be tempting, especially if you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages and other significant financial losses. However, many initial offers are much lower than what you may actually need and deserve. Before you agree to accept a settlement, ask yourself these questions:
- Does the offer cover current and future expenses? Settlement offers should take into account ongoing medical treatment, lost income and other damages, the legal term for losses.
- Have you fully recovered from your injuries? If you’re still undergoing treatment or unsure of the long-term effects, accepting an offer might leave you undercompensated.
- When can you return to work? Many serious car accident injuries require extensive time off from work to rest and recover from your injuries. During that time, you likely won’t have any income coming in if you cannot work.
- Do you have a permanent disability? Many car accident injuries result in a permanent disability that prevents victims from ever returning to work.
Once you accept a settlement, you generally cannot ask for additional money later, even if your accident expenses increase dramatically in the future. Reviewing the offer with an experienced Oklahoma City car accident lawyer can help you determine whether it’s fair or whether you should negotiate for more.
What damages can I be compensated for after my Oklahoma City car accident?
After a serious crash in Oklahoma City, the financial and personal impact can feel overwhelming. While money can’t undo the trauma of a collision, it can give you the resources you need to recover and move forward. When you pursue a claim, you may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, including:
- Medical bills (past and future): This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and any long-term treatment you may need. If your injury requires ongoing medical attention, future medical costs should also be covered.
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity: If you missed time at work because of your injuries, you can pursue compensation for that lost income. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your job or limit your ability to earn in the future, you may also be entitled to compensation for reduced earning potential.
- Pain and suffering: Beyond the financial impact, car accidents often cause significant physical pain and discomfort. Pain and suffering damages take into account the toll of living with that hardship every day.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other emotional struggles are common after a crash. Compensation for emotional distress acknowledges how the crash has affected your mental health and well-being.
- Property damage: Repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash should be included in your claim.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Serious injuries can prevent you from enjoying daily activities, hobbies, or time with loved ones the way you once did. This type of compensation recognizes those losses and their lasting impact on your quality of life.
Should I see a doctor after my Oklahoma City car accident?
Yes, you should always see a doctor after a car accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash, internal bleeding, or a traumatic brain injury, may not show symptoms immediately but can get worse over time and could even be fatal. Seeing a doctor is important for several reasons:
- Your health: Prompt treatment can prevent minor injuries from becoming severe.
- Evidence for your claim: Medical records link your injuries directly to the accident and strengthen your case.
If needed, visit a local Oklahoma City hospital, such as OU Health or Integris Baptist Medical Center, for a thorough medical evaluation. Follow your doctor’s recommendations and keep copies of all medical records and bills to support your claim. The more evidence you have of your car accident injury, the stronger your legal case.
Who investigates car accidents in Oklahoma City?
Depending on the circumstances of your Oklahoma City car accident, several parties may investigate your car crash to determine what happened and who is at fault. These include:
- Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD): They respond to accidents within city limits and file official accident reports.
- Oklahoma Highway Patrol: State troopers often respond to accidents on state roads and federal highways in Oklahoma City, including I-35 and I-40.
- Insurance companies: Adjusters review the accident to assess liability and evaluate claims.
- Accident reconstruction experts: In severe or disputed cases, specialists may analyze the crash scene, vehicle damage, and other factors to determine fault.
It’s important to obtain a copy of the official police report and gather evidence such as photos and witness statements. This information can play a key role in proving your case. Fortunately, you don’t have to investigate your accident on your own. An experienced Oklahoma City car accident attorney can handle your independent investigation and gather evidence in support of your claim or lawsuit.
Who’s responsible for paying for my Oklahoma City car crash?
Responsibility for paying for your car crash, or liability, depends on who was at fault. Typically, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for paying for all damages, which often include medical expenses, lost income and property damage. Other responsible parties might include:
- A vehicle manufacturer: If a defective part caused or contributed to the crash.
- A government entity: If unsafe road conditions, such as potholes or missing signs, played a role.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to file a claim under your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
How do insurance companies operate after a car accident?
After a crash, many people assume the insurance company will treat them fairly. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to protect profits by paying out as little as possible on claims. Even when you’re clearly not at fault, insurance companies often use tactics designed to reduce or deny your compensation. Some of the most common strategies include:
- Pressuring victims to settle quickly: Insurance companies may offer a fast payout that seems tempting, but it’s usually far less than what your claim is truly worth.
- Disputing medical treatment: Adjusters often argue that certain treatments aren’t necessary or that your injuries are less severe than reported.
- Delaying claims: Some companies drag their feet, hoping you’ll get frustrated and accept less just to move forward.
- Twisting your statements: Casual remarks like “I’m fine” or “It’s not that bad” can be taken out of context and used against you later.
- Shifting blame: Insurance companies may argue that you were partly or even entirely responsible for the crash to reduce or eliminate their liability.
These tactics can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from your injuries. That’s why having an experienced Oklahoma City car accident attorney handle all communication with the insurance company is so important. We know these strategies inside and out and can push back to make sure you get the compensation you actually deserve.
Can I receive compensation if I was partially at fault for causing my car accident?
Yes, Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover compensation as long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident, according to Oklahoma Statute 23-13-15. Here’s how it works:
- Partial fault reduces compensation: Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault and your damages total $50,000, you would receive $40,000.
- More than 50% at fault: If you are primarily responsible for the accident, you cannot recover damages.
Clear evidence and strong legal representation can help ensure fault is fairly assessed and maximize your compensation.
How is fault determined after an Oklahoma City car crash?
When it comes to car accident claims, strong evidence can determine fault and is often the difference between a denied claim and a full financial recovery. Insurance companies don’t just take your word for what happened; they want proof. The more documentation you have, the harder it is for them to dispute your version of events.
Key forms of evidence that can strengthen your case include:
- Police reports: An official accident report provides a neutral account of the crash, often including details about fault, citations, and statements from everyone involved.
- Witness statements: Testimony from people who saw the crash can back up your account and counter any attempts by the at-fault driver to shift blame.
- Medical records: Treatment notes, test results, and physician reports show the extent of your injuries and help establish the link between the crash and your medical condition.
- Photographs and video: Pictures of the vehicles, road conditions, and injuries can make a powerful impact on your case.
- Expert testimony: Accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, or vocational experts can provide insight into how the crash happened and how your injuries will affect your life long-term.
To build a strong case, evidence needs to be gathered quickly, since memories fade and records can be lost over time. An experienced attorney will know what evidence to pursue, how to secure it, and how to use it to build the strongest case possible on your behalf.
Who determines who was at fault for causing a car accident?
As explained above, determining who was at fault for causing a car accident involves evaluating evidence and statements to establish liability. So who conducts these evaluations? Several parties typically play a role in this process:
- Law enforcement officers: The Oklahoma City Police Department or Oklahoma Highway Patrol often investigates accidents and files official police reports that detail their findings about who may be at fault.
- Insurance adjusters: Insurance companies review evidence like police reports, witness statements, and photos to decide who they believe is liable, which means who is legally responsible for paying for the accident.
- Courts: If the case goes to trial, a judge or jury will often ultimately decide who was at fault based on the evidence presented.
Accident reconstruction experts may also be brought in to analyze complex crashes. Evidence such as video footage, skid marks, and cell phone records can help clarify what caused the collision.
It’s crucial to collect as much information as possible at the scene to strengthen your case. This is why it’s also critical that you have an experienced Oklahoma City car accident lawyer handling your case. Your attorney can investigate your accident and present your case on your behalf to insurance companies, judges, and juries.
What is the average car accident settlement in Oklahoma City?
There is no set average for car accident settlements in Oklahoma City. That’s because each case is unique. Settlement amounts can vary widely and often depend on factors like the severity of injuries, the cost of medical care, and the impact on your ability to work. Factors that influence settlements include:
- Economic damages: These are financial losses like medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
- Non-economic damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
- Insurance coverage limits: The at-fault driver’s policy may cap the amount you can recover.
An attorney can evaluate your case and calculate the full value of your damages to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Who can I sue after my car crash in Oklahoma City?
You may be able to file a lawsuit seeking damages (financial compensation) against anyone whose negligence caused or contributed to your car accident. Potential defendants include:
- The at-fault driver: If they were speeding, distracted, or driving under the influence.
- A vehicle manufacturer: If a defective part, such as brakes or tires, contributed to the crash.
- A government agency: If unsafe road conditions, such as unmarked hazards or poor maintenance, played a role.
In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility for the crash. Identifying all liable parties ensures you pursue the maximum compensation available.
How long do I have to file an Oklahoma City car accident lawsuit?
In Oklahoma, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is strict. Missing it could result in losing your right to compensation. Exceptions to this deadline may apply in certain cases, such as if the accident involves a minor.
But just because you have two years from the date of your car accident to take legal action does not mean you should wait that long to file a lawsuit. Acting quickly often helps preserve evidence, such as traffic camera footage, accident debris, or statements from eyewitnesses. The faster you act, the stronger your car accident case in most cases.
How long does it take to settle a car accident case in Oklahoma?
Every car accident case is different, so there’s no single answer to how long it will take to reach a settlement. Some claims may be resolved in just a few months, while others can take a year or more, especially if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer and a lawsuit becomes necessary.
Several factors can affect the timeline of your case, including:
- The severity of your injuries: If you’re still receiving treatment, your attorney may recommend waiting until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement so the full extent of your damages can be calculated.
- Disputes over liability: When the at-fault driver or their insurer questions who caused the crash, cases often take longer to resolve.
- The insurance company’s cooperation: Some insurance companies negotiate quickly, while others delay or use stalling tactics.
- Whether a lawsuit is filed: If your case goes to court, the process can take significantly longer due to hearings, motions, and trial preparation.
While waiting can be frustrating, rushing to accept a lowball settlement can leave you without enough money to cover long-term medical costs or lost income. An experienced Oklahoma City car accident lawyer can keep your case moving forward while protecting your right to the compensation you truly need.
Which court handles car accident lawsuits in Oklahoma City?
Car accident lawsuits in Oklahoma City are usually filed in either state or federal courts, depending on the specifics of the case. Common venues include:
- Oklahoma County District Court: Handles civil cases involving claims exceeding $10,000.
- U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma: Federal court may be appropriate if the case involves parties from different states or federal issues.
- Another Out-Of-State Court: This scenario is common if a commercial truck driver from another state crashes into your car in Oklahoma City.
Filing your case in the correct court can ensure that your lawsuit proceeds efficiently and avoids jurisdictional issues. If you’re not sure where to file your Oklahoma City car accident lawsuit, an attorney can review your case and suggest possible courts for filing your lawsuit.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Oklahoma City?
Most car accident lawyers in Oklahoma City work on a contingency fee basis. That means you only pay if they obtain a financial settlement or verdict for your case. Key points about this arrangement include:
- No upfront costs: You don’t pay anything out of pocket to hire the lawyer.
- Percentage-based fees: The lawyer’s fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or court award.
- Free consultations: Many lawyers offer free case evaluations to discuss your claim.
This payment structure ensures legal representation is accessible, even if you’re dealing with financial challenges after your Oklahoma City car accident. Our law firm works this way. That’s because we believe that car accident injury victims should only pay us if we get them the money they deserve. Contact us and schedule a free case evaluation to learn more.
How can an Oklahoma City car accident lawyer help me?
After your Oklahoma City car accident, you may have more questions than answers. An experienced attorney can listen to the details of your case, answer your questions, and go over your legal options. A few things that set us apart are:
- We handle your property damage at no additional cost. While you’re recovering from your injuries, the last thing you want to worry about is getting your car repaired or replaced. Our policy is to handle property damage claims free for our clients.
- Attention to detail. Particularly in a big city like Oklahoma City, what may seem like a straightforward car accident can quickly turn into a complex legal case. We pay attention to small details that can result in large recoveries for our clients.
- We know Oklahoma City. Our founder, J. Mike Lawter, has been practicing law in Oklahoma City for over 40 years. We know how to win cases here, and we’re not afraid to take the insurance companies to court.
- Dedication to our clients. To an insurance company, you may just be another claim. We believe in giving our clients our undivided attention and treating them like family. Our law firm will go above and beyond to fight for you.
Take action with an Oklahoma City attorney from Lawter & Associates, PLLC
If you’ve been injured in an Oklahoma City car accident that wasn’t your fault, the last thing you need to be doing is playing phone tag with the insurance company, wading through piles of paperwork, and worrying about how you’re going to get your bills paid. Let our experienced Oklahoma City car accident lawyers take the weight off your shoulders and tackle your claim. Our attorneys can fight for a fair settlement or take your case to court if push comes to shove. The best part of it all? You don’t pay unless we win. That’s because we work on a contingency fee basis. Contact us today for your free consultation and see how our law firm can help you.