Auto accidents in Miami, Oklahoma, happen every day. Each accident is unique, from minor fender benders to more serious collisions that cause injuries and fatalities.
If you are involved in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence or recklessness, it is important to take the right steps. The steps you take and what you do after an accident can greatly impact a legal claim (if you move forward with this).
At Doney Law, our Miami car accident attorney wants to ensure you know what to do and avoid to protect your rights.
Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
Safety should be your priority. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to seek medical attention as some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
However, treatment is not the only reason to seek medical attention. When you go to the hospital or a doctor, you have a record of your injuries immediately after the accident. The documents also show the severity of your injuries. This is extremely beneficial in an accident claim.
Keep these and any future medical treatment records you receive after a car accident.
Move to Safety and Prevent Further Accidents
After a collision, ensuring everyone’s safety is crucial. If the vehicles are drivable and not causing a hazard, move them to the roadside to avoid obstructing traffic and reduce the risk of further incidents.
Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers, and if available, use road flares or warning triangles for added visibility.
Call the Police
In Oklahoma, the law states you must inform the police after an accident if an injury or death occurs or if there is over $300 in property damage. However, contacting the police after any accident is recommended.
When the police arrive at the accident scene, they will create an official report. This report is an essential document for insurance claims and potential legal actions. Your Miami, Oklahoma, car accident lawyer will use this report to better understand the accident’s circumstances.
Exchange Information and Document the Scene
Exchange names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details with the other parties involved. It is also helpful to take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damages, and any relevant road signs or markings.
After an accident, the scene can become chaotic. Evidence of what happened can be lost or ruined. If you gather information and pictures right after the incident (if you can and it is safe to), the information will help your attorney determine liability and win an accident claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Be honest about the incident, but avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you.
If the adjuster you speak to asks to record the conversation, it is best to refuse this until you speak to your attorney. They can handle communication with the insurance company in many cases.
Keep a Record of Everything Related to the Accident
Documentation is key. Keep a file with all accident-related documents, including the police report, medical records, expense receipts, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
This documentation is beneficial to determine the amount of compensation you should receive. Your attorney will use these when creating a settlement offer to present to the insurance company.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly. Some use tactics like making an offer before you speak to an attorney.
Remember, once you accept an offer, you lose your right to request more when you discover the true cost of your accident and injuries. An attorney can help ensure all offers are fair and reasonable based on your situation.
Seek Legal Advice
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complex, especially when dealing with injuries, insurance claims, and potential legal issues. Seeking advice from an experienced Miami, OK, a car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Understand Oklahoma’s Comparative Negligence Law
Oklahoma follows a comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.
For example, if you are found 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation is reduced by 20%. You will be barred from compensation if you are over 50% at fault for an accident.
Focus on Your Recovery
Prioritize your physical and emotional recovery. Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, and it’s important to seek support from family, friends, and professionals.
Working with an experienced Miami, Oklahoma, car accident attorney helps you do this. They will handle the legal aspect of your case while you focus on your recovery.
Taking the Right Steps After a Miami Car Accident
If you’re involved in a car accident in Miami, Oklahoma, taking the right steps can significantly impact your recovery process. Remember, your safety and well-being are the priority.
After addressing immediate medical needs and ensuring safety at the accident scene, it’s crucial to document the incident, notify your insurance company, and seek legal advice from a Miami, OK, car accident lawyer.
Doney Law is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
