Even the most careful and attentive driver can get into a motor vehicle accident. Following an auto accident, it is not uncommon for people to panic and lose their cool. With all the shock and adrenaline rush you experience following a collision, it is easy to be overwhelmed and confused.
It is important to stay calm and take the following steps after a car crash to protect your legal rights and ensure that you are getting fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Check for Injuries and Call 911
If you have been in a car crash, the first thing to do is check if anyone, including you, is injured. If someone has been injured, request an ambulance. If your accident resulted in injuries and/or property damages, call the cops to get a police report.
Get to a Safe Location
If your vehicle is obstructing the flow of traffic but is still operational, move your vehicle to a safe area. Pull your motor vehicle off the road to avoid causing new accidents and turn on emergency flares. Also, stay away from the road yourself while trying to inspect the scene of the crash or taking photos to avoid being hit by another vehicle.
Exchange Insurance and Contact Information
Oklahoma Statutes § 47-10-104 requires all motorists to exchange their name, address, and registration number of their vehicle with the other driver involved in a car accident. Also, each driver may be asked to demonstrate proof of insurance and show their driver’s license.
While the law requires you to exchange insurance and contact information following an auto accident, it is best to avoid speaking with the other driver as your words could be misconstrued or twisted around. This could give an insurance company an excuse to limit or deny your claim.
Take Photos at the Scene of the Crash
Taking photos is one of the most important things to do following an auto accident. Photos from the scene of a car crash are invaluable pieces of evidence as they help establish fault and determine what caused the collision.
Speak with a Tulsa Car Accident Lawyer and Explore Your Legal Options
Since each motor vehicle crash is unique, you need to consult with a Tulsa car accident lawyer to determine your best course of action in your particular situation. Following a car crash in Tulsa or other parts of Oklahoma, you will most likely receive a call from an insurance company.
You should refrain from giving a recorded statement to the insurance claims adjuster or even talking to any insurance company representative before you consult with a lawyer. Oklahoma is an at-fault auto insurance state, which means you must file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company in order to receive compensation for your injury.
After filing a claim, the other driver’s insurer will investigate whether their client was responsible for the collision. If the insurance company begins to question the severity of your injury, attempts to blame you for the accident, or simply delays the claims process, it is even more important to seek legal counsel right away.
Contact our Tulsa car accident attorneys at BDIW Law, to explore your legal options and determine liability in your particular case. Call at 918-728-6500 to schedule a free consultation.