According to a study conducted by AutoInsuranceQuote, Oklahoma is ranked 10th for states with the most fatal car accidents. The study tells us that there were 1.28 fatal accidents in Oklahoma for every 100,000 miles traveled between 2016 to 2018. In that same time span, the state saw 1,844 fatal accidents overall. Oklahoma also averaged 15.6 annual fatal crashes between 2016 to 2018 for every 100,000 people, according to the study.
It isn’t just deaths, of course. In 2018, 19,930 car accidents happened in Oklahoma City. In 2019, 2,256 people were injured in car accidents in Oklahoma City.
These are some pretty scary numbers, and Oklahoma City is surely over represented in Oklahoma statistics as the largest and the capital city. If you’re one of the thousands of people who have gotten into a car accident in Oklahoma City, you need to know the next steps to recover physically, financially, and emotionally.
Your Next Steps After a Car Accident
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, and any visible injuries. Make notes about the location, date, time, road conditions, weather, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
Limit Conversations: Be careful about what you say to the other driver(s) and witnesses. Avoid admitting fault or making accusations. Stick to the facts when talking to the police.
Report to Your Insurance Company: Contact your own insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with the basic details of the accident and the other driver’s insurance information.
Consult with an Attorney: If you’re injured and believe the accident was not your fault, consult with an Oklahoma City car accident lawyer. An attorney can help protect your legal rights and navigate the claims process. Understanding your rights and the relevant laws in Oklahoma regarding car accidents and personal injury claims is essential in making the best decisions at such a difficult time of your life.
Keep Records: Keep all documents related to the accident, including medical records, bills, insurance correspondence, and repair estimates. Maintain a record of all expenses and losses incurred as a result of the accident.
Be Cautious with Settlement Offers: You don’t have to accept the first amount offered to you. If the other driver’s insurance company offers you a settlement, consult with your attorney before accepting. Consulting with an attorney throughout the process can be particularly valuable in complex or contentious cases. They can help ensure you’re being offered fair compensation.
Contact an Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyer
Get peace of mind and the financial compensation you deserve by bringing on a lawyer to help with your case. A lawyer can provide guidance on the best path forward after your car accident. Contact 1-8000-Injured, a medical and legal referral network, to find one. An attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries.