Transcript
Car accidents are a stressful and often overwhelming experience, especially in a city like Tulsa, where busy highways like I-44, U.S. Route 75, and the Broken Arrow Expressway see heavy traffic daily. Knowing the right steps to take immediately after an accident can protect your health, preserve your legal rights, and help you secure the compensation you may be entitled to.
Ensure Safety First
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance.
- Move to a Safe Location: If it's safe and possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. This is especially important on high-speed roads like the Creek Turnpike or busy streets like Peoria Avenue.
- Turn on Hazard Lights: Activate your vehicle's hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident scene.
Call the Police
- Report the Accident: Contact the Tulsa Police Department to report the incident, regardless of its severity. An official police report will be crucial for insurance claims and any potential legal action.
- Provide Accurate Information: When officers arrive, give a clear and factual account of what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident.
Document the Scene
Gathering evidence at the scene can be invaluable later on:
- Photograph Everything:
- Damage to all vehicles involved from multiple angles.
- Road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any debris.
- Your injuries and those of your passengers.
- Landmarks or street signs to document the exact location (e.g., near the BOK Center or along Riverside Drive).
- Exchange Information:
- Obtain the other driver's name, contact information, driver's license number, and insurance details.
- Note the make, model, color, and license plate number of their vehicle.
- Collect Witness Information:
- If there are witnesses, politely ask for their names and contact details.
- Witness statements can be crucial in determining fault.
Seek Medical Attention
- Immediate Evaluation: Even if you feel uninjured, it's important to be examined by a medical professional. Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not be immediately apparent.
- Local Medical Facilities: Tulsa has several hospitals and urgent care centers, such as:
- Saint Francis Hospital
- Hillcrest Medical Center
- Ascension St. John Medical Center
- Keep Medical Records: Document all medical visits, treatments, prescriptions, and expenses. These records will be essential for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings.
Notify Your Insurance Company
- Report Promptly: Inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible.
- Provide Necessary Details: Share factual information without admitting fault. Stick to the basics of when and where the accident occurred and the identities of the other parties involved.
- Understand Your Coverage: Review your policy to understand your coverage limits and any benefits like rental car reimbursement or medical payments coverage.
Avoid Admitting Fault or Making Statements
- Limit Discussions: Do not discuss the accident with anyone other than the police, your insurance company, and your attorney.
- Be Cautious with Adjusters: If the other driver's insurance company contacts you, it's best to refer them to your attorney or insurance company.
Preserve All Evidence
- Keep All Documentation: Save copies of the police report, medical records, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
- Maintain a Journal: Document how the accident and your injuries affect your daily life, including pain levels, missed work, and activities you can no longer enjoy.
Consult a Tulsa Car Accident Attorney
- Seek Legal Advice: Car accident laws can be complex, and an attorney can help navigate the legal process.
- Local Expertise: An attorney familiar with Tulsa's laws and court systems can provide valuable insights, especially regarding common accident sites like the intersections near Utica Square or along Memorial Drive.
- Maximize Compensation: A lawyer can help ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
- Contingency Basis: Many car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay unless they win your case.
Be Mindful of Legal Deadlines
- Statute of Limitations: In Oklahoma, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Prompt Action: Acting quickly can help preserve evidence and strengthen your case.
Understand Oklahoma's Modified Comparative Negligence Rule
- Shared Fault: Oklahoma follows a "modified comparative negligence" system. If you're found to be partially at fault (less than 51%), your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Example: If you're awarded $10,000 but found 20% at fault, you would receive $8,000.
- Impact on Compensation: If you're found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
Common Causes of Accidents in Tulsa
Being aware of common accident causes can help you and your attorney build a strong case:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, phone use, or other distractions, especially on busy roads like 71st Street.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits on highways like the Gilcrease Expressway increases accident risk.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug impairment remains a significant problem, particularly during events near Downtown Tulsa.
- Weather Conditions: Sudden rainstorms or icy conditions can make roads slick, contributing to accidents on overpasses and bridges.
Avoid Social Media Posts
- Privacy Matters: Do not post about the accident on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
- Potential Misuse: Insurance companies may use your posts against you to minimize your claim.
Final Steps
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to all treatment plans prescribed by your healthcare providers.
- Stay Organized: Keep all documents and correspondence organized for easy access.
Conclusion
Experiencing a car accident in Tulsa can be overwhelming, but knowing the appropriate steps to take can significantly affect the outcome of your situation. Prioritize safety, document everything thoroughly, and seek professional legal guidance to navigate the complexities of Oklahoma's car accident laws.
By taking these actions promptly, you can protect your rights and work towards recovering the compensation you need to heal and move forward with your life.
