Chris Hammons | December 16, 2025 | Personal Injury
Accidents are stressful, but understanding how to file an insurance claim can help you regain control. Whether you’ve been involved in a car crash or suffered property damage from a storm, Oklahoma’s insurance system sets out specific steps. Because Oklahoma is an at‑fault state, the person who caused the accident and their insurer are generally responsible for damages.
Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and secure fair compensation.
Immediate Actions at the Accident Scene
Your first priority is safety. If anyone is injured, call 911 for medical assistance. Police will document the crash, and a police report often becomes key evidence in your claim.
After ensuring everyone’s well‑being, take the following steps:
- Exchange information: Collect names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, vehicle registration details, and insurance information from all involved parties. In a property damage incident, such as a storm‑damaged roof, document your insurance policy number.
- Photograph the scene: Use your phone to capture the damage to vehicles, property, and the surrounding area. Take pictures of skid marks, road signs, debris, and injuries. These images help insurers determine fault and assess losses.
- Gather witness details: Ask witnesses for their names and contact information. Their accounts may support your version of events.
If a serious accident prevents you from collecting information, focus on medical care. An attorney or family member can later obtain the necessary details.
Notifying Your Insurer
Regardless of fault, notify your insurance company promptly after an accident. Most policies contain deadlines for reporting, and failure to provide timely notice can result in claim denial. Contact your agent through a phone call, mobile app, or online portal. Provide basic details about the accident and confirm that you have complied with policy requirements.
Submitting Your Claim
After notifying your insurer, you will begin the formal claim process.
The steps may vary depending on whether it is an auto, home, or health claim, but generally include:
- Complete claim forms: Provide detailed information about the incident, including date, location, description of events, and documentation of damages. Be thorough and honest.
- Make temporary repairs: For property damage (such as storm‑damaged roofs), prevent further damage by covering broken windows or tarping holes. Keep receipts, because insurers often reimburse reasonable emergency expenses.
- Cooperate with the adjuster: The insurer will assign a claims adjuster who will investigate the accident, inspect the damage, and estimate the repair costs. Be prepared to provide documents, answer questions, and allow access to your vehicle or property.
- Track expenses: Save invoices, medical bills, rental car receipts, and proof of lost wages. Detailed records help ensure you receive full compensation.
The insurer will make a settlement offer based on policy limits, fault percentages, and documented damages. If you accept, you typically sign a release agreeing not to pursue further claims.
Challenges and Claim Denials
Not all claims proceed smoothly.
Insurers may deny or reduce payments for reasons such as:
- Disputes over liability: The insurer may argue that you were more than 50 percent at fault, blocking recovery under Oklahoma’s comparative negligence law.
- Policy exclusions: Certain losses, like flood damage or intentional acts, may not be covered. Review your policy to understand exclusions.
- Late reporting: Missing deadlines for notifying the insurer or filing a claim can lead to denial.
- Insufficient documentation: Lack of evidence on damages or medical treatment can undermine your claim.
Sometimes insurers delay investigation, undervalue claims, or refuse to pay legitimate benefits. Oklahoma law allows you to sue for “bad faith” if the insurer violates its duty to deal fairly.
Contact Our Oklahoma City Personal Injury Lawyers at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Filing an insurance claim after an accident can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from injuries. By understanding Oklahoma’s at-fault system, following proper steps, and knowing your rights, you can navigate the process with confidence.
If you need support through this process, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. Our law office is located in Oklahoma City.
We proudly serve Oklahoma County, OK and its surrounding areas:
Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers – OKC
1332 SW 89th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73159
(405) 703-4567