
In Oklahoma City, navigating the complex world of accident injury lawyer insurance companies can be overwhelming. Oklahoma law requires insurance companies to pay fair compensation to injured parties, but often they don't.
Insurance companies in OKC often prioritize profits over people, which can lead to delayed or denied claims. This is where an experienced accident injury lawyer can make a huge difference.
In Oklahoma, you have two years to file a claim for personal injury, but it's essential to act quickly to protect your rights.
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Accident Injury Lawyer Insurance Companies OKC
If you've been involved in a car accident in Oklahoma City, it's essential to understand the role of insurance companies in your case. Insurance adjustors cannot know the true cost of a serious car accident injury in the days and weeks after it has occurred, so they often offer lowball payments based on past payouts for claims similar to yours.
You should decline to give a recorded statement, sign any documents, or accept any payment from an insurance company unless you do so at the advice of an experienced Oklahoma City auto accident attorney.
Insurance companies have a profit-minded business model, which can lead them to deny claims without reason, not conduct a thorough investigation, or fail to respond to a claim in a timely manner. At McGuire Law Firm, our lawyers know what bad faith practices look like and will hold the most powerful companies in the state accountable.
You may have to file a claim with the at-fault driver's liability insurance company, but if they are uninsured, you may have to file a claim with your uninsured motorist insurer if you have this optional coverage.
Here are some parties you could potentially have a legitimate claim against:
- Drivers of other passenger cars
- The driver of your automobile, if you were a passenger
- A passenger in your car, if you were the driver
- Truck drivers
- Motorcyclists
- Bicyclists
- Pedestrians
- Bus drivers
- Trucking companies
- Transit companies
- Uber drivers or Lyft drivers
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Mechanics or auto repair shops
- Government agencies
- Employers of negligent parties
Our attorneys at McGuire Law Firm will conduct an exhaustive inquiry into the circumstances of your car accident to determine the cause(s) and identify who might be at fault. We can aggressively pursue monetary damages from anyone who played even the slightest role in your crash.
Filing a Claim
In Oklahoma, you have two years to file a car accident claim. This is a strict deadline, so it's essential to act quickly. You can file a claim with the insurance company for the at-fault party, but if your insurance claim is denied or your damages exceed the insurance policy's limits, you can file a personal injury lawsuit.
The statute of limitations for most car accident lawsuits in Oklahoma is two years, starting from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions, such as if you didn't discover your injuries right away or if you were a minor at the time of the accident.
You'll need to file a special administrative claim with the government within one year of the accident if you're seeking damages from the state or local government. If the government denies your claim or fails to respond, you'll have 90 days to file a civil lawsuit.
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To file a car accident claim, you'll need to gather evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements. Your car accident lawyer can help you with this process and ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed on time.
Here are the most common types of claims and their time limitations:
It's essential to contact a car accident lawyer in Oklahoma as soon as possible after a collision to ensure that your claim is filed on time and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Collect Visual Evidence
Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including your vehicle and the other vehicle involved. This will help preserve the evidence of the accident.
You should take pictures of any damage to your vehicle, as well as the other vehicle involved. This will help your lawyer build a strong case for compensation.
Consider taking videos of the accident scene, including any witness statements. This can help recreate the events leading up to the accident.
Some essential items to photograph include:
- Damage to your vehicle
- Damage to the other vehicle
- Any skid marks or debris at the scene
- Any visible injuries to yourself or others involved
Remember to preserve this information, as it might be used as evidence down the road.
Understanding Laws and Regulations
Oklahoma is an at-fault state, meaning the at-fault driver and their insurance company are responsible for medical expenses and property damage incurred by the other driver.
You have two years to file a car accident claim in Oklahoma, and it's essential to contact a car accident lawyer as quickly as possible to review your case and file a claim before the time limit runs out.
In Oklahoma, you can only pursue compensation if your fault is less than that of another at-fault party's, and your compensation may be impacted by your determined fault.
You can file a personal injury lawsuit against at-fault parties if your insurance claim is denied or if your damages exceed an insurance policy's limits, but be aware that the statute of limitations for most car accident lawsuits is two years.
Oklahoma is also a modified comparative negligence state, which means you could be partially blamed for the accident, and you won't be allowed to pursue compensation if the accident is more than 50% of your fault.
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Laws Overview
Oklahoma is an at-fault state, which means the at-fault driver and their insurance company are responsible for medical expenses and property damage incurred by the other driver.
You have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident in Oklahoma, with the clock starting to run at the time of the accident.
In Oklahoma, car insurance is required to have a license and operate a motor vehicle, and it must include property damage liability to cover costs if a driver is considered at-fault.
Fault can be divided between parties in an accident, but if you're considered 50% or more at-fault, you're not legally permitted to seek compensation.
Oklahoma is a modified comparative negligence state, meaning you could be partially blamed for the accident, but you won't be allowed to pursue compensation if the accident is more than 50% of your fault.
The statute of limitations for a car accident claim in Oklahoma is two years, and you must file a claim within this timeframe to be able to get your claim heard.
You'll have one year to file a special administrative claim to request compensation from the government if you're involved in an accident with a government vehicle or property.
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Punitive
Punitive damages are a type of compensation that's meant to punish the at-fault party for their actions.
These damages are only available in situations where the defendant's conduct is so outrageous or egregious that punishment is necessary.
Punitive damages are capped at $100,000 or twice the value of any actual damages awarded.
If the circumstances of the accident were particularly egregious, a judge or jury might award you additional compensation in the form of punitive damages.
For example, if the other person didn't have a license or was driving while intoxicated, you might be entitled to punitive damages.
Regardless of what type of damages your attorney is seeking, you should be compensated for the injuries you sustained in the crash and the costs you will incur down the road.
Injury and Compensation
If you've been injured in a car accident, it's essential to seek prompt medical attention. This will help you receive the necessary treatment and also create a record of your injuries, which can be crucial evidence when proving that the accident caused your damages.
You should also contact a car accident attorney to discuss your collision and determine your options for recovering fair compensation. They can help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
In Oklahoma, you can be compensated for various types of injuries, including chest injuries, crushing injuries, broken bones and fractures, head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and more.
The costs of an unexpected car accident can be extraordinary, with average costs ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. You can seek to be compensated for all of your injuries, damages, and suffering from responsible parties.
Some of the types of compensation you may be eligible for include payment for medical bills, follow-up doctor appointments, rehabilitation expenses, and medications, as well as estimated costs for future medical treatments you may need.
Here are some common types of damages you may be eligible for after a car accident:
- Payment for medical bills, follow-up doctor appointments, rehabilitation expenses, and medications
- Estimated costs for future medical treatments you may need
- Compensation for the income you have lost if you had to miss work
- Estimated costs for a reduction in your earning capacity if you are forced to take a lower-paying job due to your injuries
- Payment for property damages, including for repair, total loss, loss of use, and diminished value
- Compensation for the pain and suffering you have endured due to your injuries
In cases involving extreme misconduct, you may also be awarded punitive damages as a means of punishing the at-fault party.
Working with an Attorney
Working with an attorney can be a crucial step in navigating the complex process of seeking compensation after an accident. You can count on your attorney to investigate your car wreck, identify liable parties, and locate all relevant insurance policies.
Your attorney will also handle all court filings and paperwork, communicate with insurance companies, and negotiate for fair settlements. They can even file a lawsuit on your behalf if necessary. A good attorney can be a comforting presence during a difficult time, providing guidance and support every step of the way.
Here are some key benefits of working with an experienced car accident lawyer:
- Reducing stress by handling paperwork and legal matters
- Protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional damages
By working with an attorney, you can focus on your medical recovery while they handle the complexities of the insurance process. This can be a huge relief, especially during a time of physical and emotional stress.
Do I Need an Attorney?
If you've been in a car accident, you might be wondering if you need an attorney to help you navigate the process. The answer is yes, having an experienced car accident lawyer can make a huge difference in getting the compensation you deserve.
You can count on your attorney to investigate the accident, identify who is liable, and gather evidence to support your case. They can also help you understand the insurance policies that apply to your accident and injuries.
A good attorney will take the time to listen to your story and understand the full extent of your injuries. They'll work with medical experts to review your medical records and determine the full extent of your damages.
If you try to handle the process on your own, you might miss important deadlines or lose valuable evidence. An attorney can help you stay on top of paperwork and negotiations with insurance companies.
Here are some key benefits of hiring an experienced car accident lawyer:
- Reduce your stress by handling paperwork and legal issues
- Protect your rights by ensuring your voice is heard and you receive fair compensation
- Negotiate with insurance companies to get a fair settlement
- File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary to recover additional damages
Don't try to navigate the process alone – hire an experienced car accident lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Client Testimonials
Working with an attorney can be a daunting experience, but the right team can make all the difference. You can count on Colbert Cooper Hill Attorneys to settle your case quickly, as they did for one client who was amazed by their fast settlement.
Their team is made up of professional and caring individuals, like John Colbert and Ruth Torres, who will take care of the details of your case with precision and care. They are the best around, according to one satisfied client.
Colbert Cooper Hill Attorneys have had great outcomes for their clients, including one who had a successful workers' comp case. Brandy West is one of the team members who will be there to answer your questions and provide guidance throughout the process.
Their clients rave about their experience, with one saying they were "taken in" and cared for throughout the entire process. This is a testament to the team's commitment to their clients' well-being and success.
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What to Expect
When you hire an accident injury lawyer, you can expect a team of experienced professionals to handle your case from start to finish. Our law firm will get involved in your case to ensure you have the most support possible as you navigate through this difficult time.
You'll have the opportunity to meet with us for a free initial legal consultation, which comes at no cost and with no further obligation from you. This meeting can be held in our office or at your preferred location.
We'll take your case on a contingency-fee-basis, which means we handle all upfront costs of investigating your case and filing claims. You won't be charged a cent unless we obtain money for you, and then we'll accept an agreed-upon percentage of any settlement or jury award we obtain.
Our team will file all correspondence and paperwork required to initiate insurance claims, and track down evidence such as police reports, 911 calls, witnesses, medical records, medical receipts, etc. We'll also respond promptly to your questions and concerns, including answering your calls and returning your emails in a timely manner.
We'll keep you informed about the progress of your claim, and bring all settlement offers to you along with our advice. However, all decisions will be up to you.
Here's a breakdown of what you can expect from your accident injury lawyer:
Insurance and Coverage
In Oklahoma, you're only required to carry liability insurance to operate a motor vehicle on the road. This means that if you're involved in an accident and are blamed for it, your insurance company won't pay for your property damage or medical expenses.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may have to file a claim with your uninsured motorist insurer if you have this optional coverage. Having uninsured motorist coverage can provide an added layer of protection in case of an accident.
You may also have other optional insurance that covers you in the event of an accident, such as collision coverage. It's generally better to have full coverage, as it will provide more comprehensive protection in case of an accident.
Here are some parties you could potentially have a legitimate claim against in case of a car accident in Oklahoma:
- Drivers of other passenger cars
- The driver of your automobile, if you were a passenger
- A passenger in your car, if you were the driver
- Truck drivers
- Motorcyclists
- Bicyclists
- Pedestrians
- Bus drivers
- Trucking companies
- Transit companies
- Uber drivers or Lyft drivers
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Mechanics or auto repair shops
- Government agencies
- Employers of negligent parties
Choosing an Insurance Provider
If you're involved in a collision in Oklahoma caused by another driver, you'll generally file a claim with their liability insurance company.
You may not have this option if the at-fault driver is uninsured, in which case you'll need to file a claim with your uninsured motorist insurer if you have this optional coverage.
You may have other optional insurance that covers you in the event of an accident, such as collision coverage.
It's essential to review your insurance policy to understand what's covered and what's not.
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Insurance Company Bad Faith
Insurance companies have a legal duty to consider claims in good faith. This means they must act fairly and honestly when dealing with policyholders.
An insurance policy is a contract, and companies that don't fulfill their side of the bargain can engage in bad faith practices. These practices can include denying claims without reason.
Some common examples of bad faith practices include:
- Denying a claim without reason
- Not conducting a thorough or unbiased investigation into an accident
- Failing to respond to a claim within a timely manner
- Not issuing a timely payment once a settlement has been reached or verdict entered
If an insurer engages in these practices, they can be held accountable by a lawyer who knows what to look for.
Property Damage
Property damage can be a significant financial burden after a car accident. It will cost money to repair your vehicle, and if it cannot be repaired, you are entitled to money to replace it. If your vehicle is damaged in an accident, you need to work with a car accident lawyer to seek compensation. They will review all of the case information to ensure you receive enough money to repair or replace your vehicle. This can include money for repairs, replacement, or even the cost of a rental car if your vehicle is in the shop.
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Requires Liability Insurance
In Oklahoma, you're only required to carry liability insurance to operate a vehicle on the road.
Liability insurance won't cover your property damage or medical expenses, even if you're not at fault in an accident.
If you're involved in an accident and you have liability insurance, the other driver's insurance should cover your medical expenses and property damage.
Having full coverage is generally a better option, as it covers your property damage and medical expenses, even if you're not at fault.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are most lawyer fees for a car accident?
Most car accident lawyers charge a contingency fee, typically ranging from 33% to 40% of your settlement. This means you only pay if you win, so it's a risk-free way to seek compensation.
How long do most car accident settlements take?
Most car accident settlements take anywhere from 3 months to 3 years to resolve, depending on various factors such as coverage and liability. The settlement process can be lengthy, so it's essential to understand the factors that influence its duration.
Can you sue an insurance company after a car accident?
Yes, you can sue an insurance company after a car accident if they fail to offer a fair settlement for your claim. If you're considering a lawsuit, it's essential to understand your rights and options to get the compensation you deserve.
Is Oklahoma a no-fault state for car accidents?
Oklahoma is not a no-fault state for car accidents. This means fault must be established to pursue a claim.
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