Tulsa Car Accident Attorneys Fighting For Crash Victims
Injured in a car wreck? We can demand compensation for you
Getting injured in a car accident in Tulsa that wasn’t your fault can cause you a lot of stress. Whether it’s whiplash caused by a rear-end accident on Broken Arrow Expressway or a traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to a head-on collision on 61st Street, all it takes is one reckless driver to turn your life upside down.
Suddenly, you’ll have to spend a lot of time dealing with doctors, doctor bills, the insurance company – and it all can quickly become overwhelming. Take the burden off your shoulders with an experienced car accident attorney from our Tulsa law firm.
The Tulsa car accident lawyers from Lawter & Associates, PLLC have been helping car accident victims in Tulsa County and throughout Oklahoma for decades and will fight to get you the settlement you deserve. Your job is to get well. Let our Tulsa car accident attorneys handle everything else. Contact us today for your free consultation.
As Oklahoma’s second-largest city and a major cultural center, Tulsa sees plenty of visitors every day. That means there’s a lot of heavy traffic in the area, and unfortunately, that also means there’s a risk of being involved in a serious car wreck. If you’ve been injured in a crash through no fault of your own, our Tulsa car accident lawyers can stand by your side, advocate for your needs, and demand real results for you.
“My parents and little brother were ran into by a driver not paying attention. Lawter & Associates handled their case in a fast manner and even helped my 11 year old brother. Would definitely recommend to anyone. Thank you for your help!” – Randall, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Car accident cases we handle in Tulsa
Our law firm helps crash victims deal with a wide range of cases. Some of the most common – and most serious – car accident claims we deal with in Tulsa involve:
- Rear-End Accidents – One of the most common types of car accidents, rear-end collisions can often be quite serious. Injuries such as concussions or whiplash are common. That’s why it’s important to take legal action right away to protect your rights.
- Head-On Collisions – Dangerous intersections like Memorial Drive and Broken Arrow Expressway in Tulsa have been the scene of many head-on crashes, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. If you or a loved one have been hurt, we can fight for your rights.
- Distracted Driving Crashes – Drivers always need to pay attention. When they fail to do so, many drivers crash into other vehicles. Sometimes, they’re texting while driving. Other times, they may be looking up directions or eating. Whatever the circumstances, we can help.
- Drunk Driving Crashes – Driving while intoxicated and under the influence of alcohol is a serious crime in Oklahoma. If a drunk driver caused your crash, you have rights. Learn more about your legal options. Talk to us.
- Fatigued/Asleep at the Wheel – Tired drivers have a choice. They can choose to take a break and not put themselves or others on the road at risk. If a tired driver caused your accident, we can help you demand justice.
Even a relatively minor car wreck can have a major impact on your life, and a serious injury can have truly life-altering consequences. If you’ve been hurt, you have a real problem and need a real solution. Our experienced Tulsa car accident attorneys can help you every step of the way.
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FAQs About Tulsa Car Accidents
- What should I do after a car accident in Tulsa?
- Should I call the police after my Tulsa car accident?
- Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine after a car accident in Tulsa?
- What types of evidence should I collect after a car accident in Tulsa?
- What are common causes of car accidents in Tulsa?
- Is Oklahoma an at-fault car insurance state and why does that matter?
- What expenses can I be compensated for after my Tulsa car accident?
- Who pays for my medical bills after a car accident caused by another driver?
- Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?
- How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Tulsa?
- What is the average car accident settlement in Tulsa?
- What can influence how much my Tulsa car accident case is worth?
- What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?
- What types of damages can I recover after a car accident in Tulsa?
- Can I claim compensation for emotional distress after a car accident in Tulsa?
- What if I was injured as a passenger in a car accident?
- What if the other driver leaves the scene of the accident?
- Should I accept a settlement offer for my car accident?
- How long does it take to settle a car accident claim in Tulsa?
- What steps should I take if the insurance company denies my claim?
- Should I file a Tulsa car accident lawsuit?
- Who can I sue after my Tulsa car crash?
- Which court handles Tulsa car accident lawsuits?
- How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Tulsa?
- Why should I hire a Tulsa car accident attorney?
What should I do after a car accident in Tulsa?
After a car accident in Tulsa, you need to focus on your safety, health, and well-being. You also need to take steps to protect your rights and strengthen your legal case. That includes documenting everything at the scene of your Tulsa car crash. So what steps should you take? In most cases, you should do the following, although keep in mind that every Tulsa car accident is unique and may require additional or different steps:
- Call 911 to report the accident. The Tulsa Police Department will likely respond to your crash and file an official report for accidents within city limits.
- Request medical assistance if needed. If you or anyone else appears injured due to your crash, ask the police dispatcher to send an ambulance to the scene of your Tulsa car crash.
- If anyone saw your accident, talk to them right away and get their full name and phone number. Statements from eyewitnesses can be critical pieces of evidence in support of a car accident claim.
- Take photos of the accident scene, especially before moving the vehicles if possible. Take pictures of street signs, vehicle damage, street lighting near the crash site and visible injuries.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
- Don’t talk about the accident with the other driver or anyone else.
- Visit a local Tulsa hospital like Saint Francis or Hillcrest Medical Center for a medical evaluation if you suspect you have a serious injury.
- Get the investigating police officer’s contact information so you can get a copy of your official accident report later.
- Contact a Tulsa car accident lawyer as soon as possible to learn more about your legal rights.
Should I call the police after my Tulsa car accident?
Yes, you should call the police right away after a car accident in Tulsa, especially if there are injuries, significant damage or disputes about who was at fault. It’s important to call the police after your Tulsa car crash for several reasons:
- You are required by law in Oklahoma to contact the police if you’re involved in a car accident that results in a fatality, injury or property damage over $300.
- By calling the police, you will have an official police report for your accident. This report can be a valuable piece of evidence in support of your car accident claim.
- Many times, there are disputes later about who was at fault for causing a collision. By calling the police, you will have an impartial observer to what happened, which can often strengthen your legal case.
Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine after a car accident in Tulsa?
Yes, always see a doctor after a car accident, even if you feel fine and don’t feel injured. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. Other life-threatening injuries, like internal bleeding or a brain injury, might not be visible as well and need to be diagnosed right away. Some other key points to remember:
- If necessary, visit a local emergency room such as Ascension St. John Medical Center or another local Tulsa hospital.
- If you’re too injured to transport yourself from the scene of your accident, ask the police to send an ambulance.
- Keep detailed medical records to support your injury claim.
- Delayed medical care can harm your health and your ability to recover compensation. If you waited to see a doctor, insurance companies might later challenge your car accident claim.
What types of evidence should I collect after a car accident in Tulsa?
The evidence you collect from your car crash can significantly impact the success of your claim. In general, the more evidence you have, the stronger your claim. Focus on documenting your accident thoroughly with the following evidence:
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
- Witness contact information and statements.
- A copy of your police report for your accident.
- Medical records documenting your injuries.
- Repair estimates to fix damage to your car sustained in the crash.
What are common causes of car accidents in Tulsa?
Car accidents in Tulsa often occur due to driver negligence. Examples of reckless or negligent driving that result in car crashes include:
- Speeding, especially on highways like I-244 or I-44.
- Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Falling asleep at the wheel and crashing into another car.
- Aggressive or reckless driving, including not stopping at a stop sign or running a red light.
Is Oklahoma an at-fault car insurance state and why does that matter?
Yes, Oklahoma is an at-fault car insurance state, which means the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for covering damages, the legal term for financial losses. This matters because you will need to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance to recover financial compensation. So how does this impact your case? Here's what you should know:
- You must prove the other driver was at fault to receive compensation for medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other damages.
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company may dispute your claim, requiring strong evidence and negotiation.
- If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to file a claim under your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
What expenses can I be compensated for after my Tulsa car accident?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Tulsa, you may be eligible to recover compensation for a wide range of expenses. These damages are designed to help you recover both financially and emotionally after your crash. So what can you be compensated for? In most cases, this includes:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospital visits, physical therapy, and prescription medications.
- Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working temporarily.
- Loss of earning capacity if you can no longer work in the same capacity due to permanent injuries.
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs.
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages.
Who pays for my medical bills after a car accident caused by another driver?
Again, it’s important to understand that Oklahoma has an at-fault car insurance system. That means the at-fault party is responsible for all accident-related expenses. So when it comes to medical expenses due to a car crash, it’s often the at-fault driver’s insurance that pays your medical bills. In order to make sure your medical bills are paid, you should often take the following steps:
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance under their liability coverage.
- Use your own health insurance or medical payments coverage (MedPay), if applicable.
- Consider Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if the at-fault driver is uninsured. Many Tulsa drivers carry this coverage due to Oklahoma’s high rate of uninsured motorists.
- Talk to a Tulsa car accident lawyer as soon as possible to learn more about all your available options when it comes to paying your medical bills.
Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, you can recover damages (the legal term for compensation for financial losses) as long as you are less than 50% at fault under Oklahoma law. However, your financial compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which applies to accidents in Tulsa.
- For example, if you were 20% at fault for causing a Tulsa collision on the Broken Arrow Expressway, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. That might not seem like a lot but you could end up losing thousands of dollars you need to pay for your accident.
- A Tulsa car accident lawyer can gather evidence in support of your car accident case, especially if the at-fault party claims you somehow caused your collision. Our attorneys will work hard to prove you didn’t do anything to cause your crash.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Tulsa?
You have two (2) years from the date of the accident to file a car accident lawsuit in Oklahoma, including Tulsa. This legal deadline is known as the statute of limitations. This is why acting quickly after your accident is essential for meeting legal deadlines and gathering evidence.
- Oklahoma’s statute of limitations for car accident personal injury claims is two years.
- Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to avoid missing claim deadlines.
- The longer you wait to take legal action, the harder it often becomes to build a strong case. That’s because evidence often gets destroyed or lost soon after a crash.
- Talk with a Tulsa car accident lawyer early to make sure all deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.
What is the average car accident settlement in Tulsa?
There’s no such thing as an average car accident settlement in Tulsa because every car accident is unique. The value of your settlement depends on the specific circumstances of your crash, such as the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life. So what should you focus on? The key is hiring an experienced Tulsa car accident lawyer to handle your case.
- A lawyer can evaluate your claim and calculate the true value of your accident-related expenses, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- They will gather evidence and negotiate with the insurance company to maximize your compensation.
- With a knowledgeable Tulsa lawyer on your side, you can build a strong case and demand the settlement you deserve.
What can influence how much my Tulsa car accident case is worth?
Several factors can influence the value of your Tulsa car accident case, as every case is unique. The amount you may recover depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the circumstances of the crash. So what key factors can affect your case’s worth? Here are the most important ones:
- Severity of injuries: More severe injuries typically lead to higher compensation due to increased medical expenses and long-term effects.
- Medical expenses: Costs for emergency care, surgeries, therapy, medications, and future medical needs all factor into your case.
- Lost income: If you’re unable to work during recovery or suffer a long-term disability, lost wages and reduced earning capacity increase the case’s value.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages, like emotional distress or loss of quality of life, can significantly impact the total settlement amount.
- Liability disputes: If fault is contested, it can affect your ability to recover compensation. Evidence proving the other driver’s negligence strengthens your case.
- Insurance policy limits: The at-fault driver’s insurance coverage may cap the amount you can recover, though additional claims like Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) can help.
- Legal representation: Hiring an experienced Tulsa car accident lawyer ensures you have someone advocating for maximum compensation based on your case’s unique details.
What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?
First, it’s important to understand that car insurance is mandatory for all drivers in Oklahoma. So if a driver without insurance causes your Tulsa car accident, they are breaking the law by not having insurance.
So what are your options for paying for your car accident expenses? Depending on the circumstances of your crash and what type of insurance you have, you may have these options:
- File a claim under your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) policy.
- Seek compensation through your medical payments coverage (MedPay), if you have it.
- File a lawsuit against the driver who caused your accident.
- If a drunk driver caused your crash, take legal action against a bar, liquor store, or restaurant that sold alcohol to the driver (in certain situations). Specifically, you must prove that business knew the driver was already drunk but still sold or served alcohol to the person, who then caused your drunk driving accident.
Other legal options might exist. The best way to learn more about your rights and potential legal strategies is to talk with a Tulsa car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
What types of damages can I recover after a car accident in Tulsa?
Again, damages is a legal term that refers to compensation awarded to someone for financial losses due to an injury or accident caused by someone else’s reckless or negligent behavior. In Tulsa, you can recover economic and non-economic damages associated with a car accident. These damages aim to compensate you for your financial losses and emotional suffering.
- Economic damages include financial losses that have a specific financial impact, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs.
- Non-economic damages provide money for losses that don’t have a direct or specific financial impact, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress and loss of quality of life.
- If the accident occurred due to reckless driving in Tulsa, punitive damages may also apply and be awarded by a judge or jury. Punitive damages are meant to send a message and hopefully deter similar reckless behavior by others in the future.
Can I claim compensation for emotional distress after a car accident in Tulsa?
Yes, emotional distress is considered a type of non-economic damage and may be included as part of your financial compensation. However, in order to receive money for emotional distress or pain and suffering, it often must be supported by evidence, which can include:
- Medical records or therapy notes documenting emotional or psychological harm.
- A medical diagnosis of anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression or another mental health related condition following the accident.
An experienced Tulsa car accident lawyer can help quantify these damages, gather evidence in support of your claim and advocate for compensation for emotional distress on your behalf.
What if I was injured as a passenger in a car accident?
As a passenger, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries from the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. This can apply whether the at-fault party is the driver of the car you were traveling in or the driver of another vehicle. In most cases, the best way to pay for treatment of your injuries is to:
- File a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy.
- Use your own health insurance or MedPay coverage to cover immediate medical costs.
A Tulsa attorney can guide you through the process of filing a car accident injury claim as a passenger or take legal action on your behalf.
What if the other driver leaves the scene of the accident?
If the other driver leaves the scene of the crash, it’s considered a hit-and-run, which is a crime in Tulsa and throughout Oklahoma. The state rules and regulations regarding hit-and-run accidents can be found in Title 47 of the Oklahoma Statutes.
After a hit-and-run, it’s critical that you take certain steps to protect your rights and abide by Oklahoma’s laws. Such steps often include:
- Call 911 immediately and provide as much information as possible, such as the other vehicle’s license plate number and description.
- Gather witness statements and contact information. If someone saw your accident, they might be able to identify the car or the driver and provide this information to police.
- Check to see if there’s any video footage of your crash. Many times, security cameras or traffic cameras capture video footage of your collision, which may help Tulsa police identify the driver who fled the scene of your accident.
- Consult a Tulsa car accident lawyer, who can investigate your accident and help you explore compensation options, including Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage.
Should I accept a settlement offer for my car accident?
It can be tempting to accept a settlement offer from the insurance company after your Tulsa car accident. After all, you probably already have a lot of bills and expenses due to your accident, especially if you sustained a serious injury.
However, many initial offers are often lower than what you truly deserve. And once you accept a settlement offer, that’s often the end of your case. Even if your expenses associated with your accident go up more than expected in the future, you often cannot receive additional money if you have already accepted a settlement offer.
So what should you do before accepting a settlement? Consider these steps:
- Carefully review your settlement offer to make sure it covers all your current and future anticipated accident-related expenses, especially if you have a permanent disability or a serious injury that requires ongoing future medical care.
- Understand that once you accept a settlement, you can’t ask for more money later.
- You have the option to request additional money before you agree to accept a settlement offer. This process is known as negotiating a better offer. Sometimes, some insurance companies are willing to negotiate in good faith and will make a better settlement offer if you ask them for more money.
In each step, an experienced Tulsa car accident lawyer can assist you. They can review any settlement offer you receive and advise you on whether they think it’s a fair offer or whether you should request more money. If you decide that your offer is not enough, your attorney can also work with you to negotiate a better settlement offer. That’s what lawyers do after a Tulsa car crash.
How long does it take to settle a car accident claim in Tulsa?
The time it takes to settle a claim often depends on many different factors, including the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries and how severely damaged your vehicle is due to the accident. Some cases might take a few weeks to settle. Others could take months.
In general, the biggest factor that influences how long your car accident claim takes to settle is the willingness of the insurance company for the at-fault party to negotiate with you. If they are unwilling to make a fair settlement offer or deny your accident claim, your case could take months or even longer to finalize.
Every case is different. But often, the best way to keep the car accident claim process moving is to have an experienced Tulsa car accident lawyer on your side, working closely with insurance companies to get you the best possible settlement offer.
What steps should I take if the insurance company denies my claim?
If your car accident claim is denied, don’t accept the decision without understanding why. You can challenge the denial with the help of a Tulsa car accident lawyer. With the assistance of your attorney, you can:
- Request a written explanation for the denial from the insurance company.
- Gather evidence, including photos, medical records, and witness statements, to support your case.
- If necessary, file a car accident lawsuit seeking damages, which is financial compensation for your losses.
Should I file a Tulsa car accident lawsuit?
Filing a lawsuit can be a powerful way to demand the compensation you deserve, especially if the insurance company refuses to negotiate in good faith and makes a lowball settlement offer. In some cases, this might be your best option. So when should you consider filing a lawsuit? Here are a few scenarios:
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company denies your claim or refuses to pay a fair settlement.
- You suffered severe injuries with long-term impacts that significantly affect your life.
- The at-fault driver acted recklessly, such as driving under the influence, and you want to hold them accountable.
Who can I sue after my Tulsa car crash?
In many cases, you can take legal action against anyone whose negligence caused your car accident injuries. Determining liability is a critical step in filing a lawsuit. So who might be responsible for your Tulsa car accident? Potential legal parties could include:
- The at-fault driver who caused the collision.
- The driver’s employer if the crash involved a commercial vehicle.
- The manufacturer of a defective vehicle or part that contributed to the accident.
Which court handles Tulsa car accident lawsuits?
Tulsa car accident lawsuits are typically handled in the Tulsa County District Court. This court has jurisdiction over civil cases, including lawsuits seeking compensation for damages (financial losses) sustained as a result of a car accident. So where should you file your case? Here’s what you need to know:
- Tulsa County District Court is located at 500 South Denver Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74103.
- You’ll need to file your lawsuit in the Civil Division if the damages exceed $10,000.
- The Tulsa County Court Clerk’s office manages all filings and can provide guidance on procedural requirements.
- If your claim involves smaller amounts, you may file in Small Claims Court, but consulting with a lawyer is still advisable.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Tulsa?
Most car accident lawyers in Tulsa work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This makes legal representation accessible for accident victims.
- Expect the lawyer’s fee to be a percentage of your settlement or court award.
- Confirm the exact percentage and any additional costs during your initial consultation.
- Many Tulsa car accident lawyers offer free consultations to discuss your case.
Our Tulsa law firm handles car accident claims this way. We only charge a fee if we recover compensation for you, often in the form of a car accident settlement or jury verdict in response to a successful car accident lawsuit. Schedule a free case evaluation today at our Tulsa office on South Lewis Avenue.
Why should I hire a Tulsa car accident attorney?
Hiring a Tulsa car accident attorney can make a significant, positive difference in the outcome of your case. From dealing with insurance companies to building a strong legal claim, a lawyer can provide invaluable assistance and increase your ability to obtain the maximum financial compensation you deserve. Some of the ways your lawyer can help you achieve these goals include:
- Investigate your accident and gather evidence in support of your legal case.
- Obtain a copy of your official car accident report from the investigating police officer and make sure your report is correct.
- Determine who is at fault, especially if the at-fault driver’s insurance company claims you were at fault for causing the collision.
- Calculate the full value of your claim, including future medical costs and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- Negotiate with the insurance company to pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
- File any paperwork or forms associated with your car accident claim or lawsuit.
- Make sure you don’t miss any important legal deadlines related to your case.
- Represent you in court if you decide to file a car accident lawsuit.
We understand and appreciate the seriousness of your legal case. That’s why our Tulsa car accident lawyers would be honored to work with you after your car crash. Our goal is to demand full compensation for your crash and to make sure your rights are respected.
Tulsa car accident attorneys with decades of experience
Your Tulsa car crash only lasted a few seconds, but the consequences can last a lifetime if you’ve been seriously injured. You might not be able to work, and your bills won’t stop piling up. Your medical expenses alone may cost thousands upon thousands of dollars. Beyond those economic costs, you might lose the ability to care for the people you love or do the things you once were able to enjoy doing.
Our law firm’s mission is to help people who have been injured in car accidents get their claim resolved quickly so they can move on from their crash. At Lawter & Associates, PLLC, our Tulsa car accident lawyers have a proven track record of success. That’s because our attorneys have been helping Tulsa families for over four decades. When you’ve been hurt in a crash, you should never be made to feel like your case isn’t important. Our Tulsa legal team will make you feel welcome and give your claim the attention it deserves.
Put your trust in our Tulsa law firm
If you’ve been injured in a crash through no fault of your own, it’s time to take charge. Our Tulsa car accident lawyers know the laws in Oklahoma and know what it takes to win tough cases. Our dedicated legal team will make sure you’re in constant contact with your lawyer so you’re never left in the dark about what’s happening with your case. We’ll take you through the entire process – step-by-step and hassle-free. The best part of it all? You pay nothing unless we win. That’s because we work on a contingency fee basis. Get the settlement you deserve so you can get on the road to recovery. Contact us today for your free consultation with a Tulsa car accident lawyer you can trust.
“This firm has an excellent understanding of how to handle car wrecks.” – Ye Olde L., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐