An auto accident is a traumatic occurrence – especially when some else is to blame. Not only are you in shock from the accident itself, but you may also have suffered serious injuries along with the damage to your vehicle. But knowing what steps you should take following an auto accident in Oklahoma can help you preserve your right to be compensated for any damages you suffer and prevent a bad situation from getting worse.
Here are few things to keep in mind:
Immediately Following an Auto Accident in Oklahoma
- Get to safety, but do not leave the scene of the accident. If you leave, you risk being charged with a criminal offense for fleeing the scene of an accident.
- After you have stopped, turn off your engine and turn your hazard lights on.
- Check to see if you or any of the passengers in your vehicle have been injured and call 911 right away. Seek medical treatment for any injuries you have sustained. Don’t assume that you will be all right. For one thing, you may not be fully aware of the extent of your injuries. Furthermore, a lack of documented medical treatment may prevent you from being compensated for your injuries later. Heed the advice of medical personnel on the scene of the accident and lend your full cooperation to the police.
Collect Evidence After An Auto Accident in Oklahoma
If possible, you should collect as much evidence from any other drivers, passengers and witnesses to the accident you were involved in. Ask for the following details:
- Names
- Addresses
- Driver’s license numbers
- Insurance details
In addition, make a note of license plate numbers and anything that you think is necessary to help identify the person(s) involved.
If you have a camera or camera phone, take photos of the accident for use as evidence. Take photos of skid marks, potholes, traffic signs or anything unusual you notice about the condition of the road or visibility at the time of the accident.
The Police Report
Make sure the police file an accident report. This may take a couple of days, but if it has not been filed by then, file one yourself. Filing a police report preserves the fact regarding your accident and supplies your insurance company with accurate information on the persons involved.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company as soon as possible so that they can begin to process your claim. Your insurance company may refuse to cover you if you file too late. In fact, most are staffed 24 hours per day to receive claims, so don’t delay.
Free Consultation: Claremore Personal Injury Attorney
An auto accident in Oklahoma can be traumatic. Knowing ahead of time what steps you should take following an auto accident can make it easier for you to be compensated for any damages you suffer. For more detailed advice on the steps you should take following an auto accident in Oklahoma, contact an experienced Oklahoma personal injury attorney.
For a free consultation with an able Claremore personal injury expert, call (918) 879-1681 today. If you prefer e-mail, send your question to a Claremore personal injury attorney by using the form at the right side of this page.
