Car accidents in Oklahoma City happen daily, from the bustling downtown streets to the busy intersections of I-40 and I-35. For many residents, the aftermath of an accident can be confusing and overwhelming, especially when injuries are involved. Knowing your rights under local laws can make all the difference in ensuring you receive fair compensation.
Oklahoma City's Fault-Based System
Oklahoma City, like the rest of the state, operates under a fault-based insurance system. This means that the driver responsible for the accident is liable for covering the damages. As a victim, you have several options:
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance.
- Pursue a settlement through your own insurance if you have the appropriate coverage.
- File a lawsuit to seek compensation for your losses.
In a city as vibrant and traffic-heavy as Oklahoma City, where accidents can range from minor fender benders in Midtown to severe collisions on Lake Hefner Parkway, understanding this system is critical.
Modified Comparative Negligence in Oklahoma
Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which can significantly impact your ability to recover damages. Under this rule:
- If you’re less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you’re barred from recovering any damages.
For example, if you were rear-ended on NW Expressway but were also cited for a broken taillight, you might share some liability. If you’re awarded $10,000 but found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $8,000.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Victims of car accidents in Oklahoma City can recover several types of damages:
- Economic Damages: These include tangible costs like hospital bills from OU Health, lost wages from missed work, or repair costs for damage sustained on the busy streets of Bricktown.
- Non-Economic Damages: Compensation for pain and suffering or emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In rare cases, like a DUI-related crash on Western Avenue, courts may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault driver for gross negligence.
How an Oklahoma City Attorney Can Help
With major insurers like State Farm and GEICO handling a large share of claims in the area, it’s not uncommon for victims to feel pressured into accepting lowball settlements. A local attorney familiar with Oklahoma City’s legal landscape can:
- Negotiate with insurers who understand the unique traffic and accident trends in the metro area.
- Represent you in court, drawing on their experience with local judges and jury expectations.
- Ensure you meet Oklahoma’s two-year statute of limitations, which applies to filing personal injury claims.
The Local Touch
From the hustle of the OKC Thunder game-day traffic to the quiet streets of the Paseo Arts District, life in Oklahoma City is fast-paced and full of energy. If you’ve been injured in an accident, reach out to a local attorney who understands not only Oklahoma law but also the city itself—its people, its roads, and its challenges.
By seeking expert legal guidance, you can focus on your recovery while ensuring your rights are protected in the aftermath of an accident in Oklahoma City.
