Chris Hammons | March 27, 2025 | Car Accidents
Car accidents happen every day, and if you’re in a crash in Oklahoma, you need to know your rights. Understanding the law of car accident cases can help you figure out who is responsible, what to do after a crash, and how to get compensation for damages. If you’ve been in an accident, talking to an experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
Oklahoma Is an At-Fault State
Oklahoma follows an at-fault system for car accidents. This means the driver who causes the accident is responsible for damages.
If you’re in a crash, you can:
- File a claim with your own insurance if you have coverage.
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance.
- File a lawsuit if the insurance settlement isn’t fair.
Since insurance companies often try to pay less, having a car accident attorney can help you get full compensation. Insurance companies may also try to shift blame onto you to reduce what they have to pay. A lawyer can fight these unfair tactics and protect your interests.
Car Insurance Requirements in Oklahoma
Oklahoma law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person.
- $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident.
- $25,000 for property damage per accident.
If the at-fault driver lacks enough coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help protect you. This type of insurance can provide additional support if the other driver doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for all your expenses.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Oklahoma
Taking the right steps after an accident can help protect your claim and increase your chances of getting full compensation. Here’s what you should do:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and get medical help if needed.
- Exchange Information – Get the other driver’s contact and insurance details.
- Take Photos – Document the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
- Get Witness Statements – If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information.
- File a Police Report – Under Oklahoma law, you are required to file a police report for an accident involving a death, injuries, or property damage of more than $300. Having an official record can support your case even if you are not required to file a report.
- Seek Medical Attention – Some injuries don’t show up right away, so always see a doctor.
- Contact a Car Accident Lawyer – Before speaking with insurance companies, talk to a lawyer to protect your rights.
By following these steps, you can strengthen your claim and make sure you don’t get taken advantage of by the insurance company.
Comparative Negligence in Oklahoma
Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning if you are partly at fault, your compensation may be reduced. For example:
- If you are 20% at fault, your settlement is reduced by 20%.
- If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages.
Insurance companies may try to blame you to lower their payout. A car accident attorney can fight back to ensure fairness. If an insurer unfairly assigns you a higher percentage of fault, your lawyer can present evidence that supports your claim.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
Oklahoma has a statute of limitations of two years for most car accident claims. Missing this deadline means you may lose your right to seek compensation. If you’re unsure about your timeline, consulting a car accident attorney can help ensure your claim is filed on time.
Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
A car accident attorney can help by:
- Gathering evidence to strengthen your case.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to get a fair settlement.
- Taking your case to court if needed.
Many attorneys work on a contingency fee, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal costs.
Contact Our Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyers at Laird Hammons Laird Trial Lawyers for a Free Consultation
For more information, please contact an experienced Oklahoma City car accident 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
Open Monday to Friday
from 8 am to 5 pm
