Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable for Pedestrian Fatalities in Northwest Oklahoma City

Here in Oklahoma City, pedestrian fatalities are an increasing concern, especially in busy areas like the Northwest 39^th Expressway. When an innocent person dies because of another driver’s negligence, the family left behind is forced to deal with emotional and financial burdens. Holding the negligent driver accountable can provide justice and closure. Our Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorneys can help you work through the legal process after a wrongful death.

Oklahoma City sees its fair share of pedestrian accidents, many of them fatal. A recent tragedy on the Northwest 39th Expressway demonstrates the real dangers that pedestrians face.

Busy streets, distracted drivers, and poor infrastructure can all contribute to pedestrian accidents. In heavily trafficked areas like Oklahoma City, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. Fatalities often leave grieving families struggling to cope with the “what ifs” because, in most cases, careful driving will prevent these tragedies.

Irresponsible behaviors behind the wheel, like texting while driving, failing to yield, or speeding through crosswalks, are frequently to blame for pedestrian deaths.

What are the common causes of Oklahoma pedestrian accidents?

Pedestrian accidents don’t typically happen randomly. They’re often caused by preventable actions. A few of the most common causes are:

• Drivers using their phones or focusing on other distractions.
• A vehicle traveling over the speed limit.
• Drivers who ignore crosswalks or traffic signals.
• Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment and reaction times, leading to tragic collisions.
• Lack of crosswalks, poorly lit streets, and high-speed zones near pedestrian-heavy areas.

A combination of these factors can contribute to pedestrian fatalities in Northwest Oklahoma City. The first step toward justice for grieving families is to identify what went wrong.

What are my legal options if a loved one is killed in a Northwest Oklahoma City pedestrian accident?

We understand that losing a loved one in a pedestrian accident is devastating. We understand that no amount of money can bring your family member back, but holding the responsible party accountable through a wrongful death claim can provide some closure and financial relief.

A wrongful death claim is a lawsuit brought by the family of someone who died because of another party’s negligence. Here in Oklahoma, immediate family members – like the deceased’s spouse, child, or parent – can file a claim seeking compensation for the damages caused by their loved one’s death.

When filing a wrongful death claim in Oklahoma, you may be able to recover several types of damages:

• Medical expenses
• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship

For a successful wrongful death claim, our attorneys work to prove that the driver was negligent and that their actions directly caused your loved one’s death. This typically involves gathering evidence such as:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Traffic camera footage
• Expert testimony

The experienced Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorneys at Cunningham & Mears can help collect and analyze this evidence to build a strong case.

How can your Oklahoma City pedestrian accident lawyers help?

Our attorneys can help ease your mental burdens by handling the legal issues for you. Here’s how.

• A thorough investigation can create the groundwork for a solid case. We will examine police reports, interview witnesses, and potentially work with accident reconstruction experts to determine how the crash occurred and who is at fault.
• Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even in cases of fatal accidents. An attorney will negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, they will be prepared to take your case to court.
• In Oklahoma, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline could prevent you from seeking compensation. Our attorneys will ensure all paperwork is filed on time.

Dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian fatality is emotionally taxing. While nobody can take away the pain, we can offer guidance and reassurance during one of the most challenging times in your life.

What steps should I take after a pedestrian fatality in Oklahoma City?

If you’ve lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to act quickly to protect your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

• Report the accident to law enforcement and request a copy of the police report.
• If possible, collect photos of the accident scene, witness contact information, and any other relevant details.
• Consult with our pedestrian accident attorneys as soon as possible.
• Let your lawyer handle all communication with insurance companies.
• Grieving takes time, and having legal representation allows you to focus on your emotional well-being while your attorney handles the case.

Preventing future tragedies

While it’s important to hold negligent drivers accountable, preventing pedestrian fatalities in the first place should also be a priority. Communities in Northwest Oklahoma City can take steps to improve pedestrian safety, like:

• Clearly marked crosswalks make it safer for pedestrians to cross busy streets.
• Well-lit streets reduce the risk of accidents at night.
• Slower speeds give drivers more time to react to pedestrians.
• Educating drivers and pedestrians about safety can help prevent accidents.

Why choose Cunningham & Mears in Oklahoma City?

If you’re considering legal action after a pedestrian fatality, choosing a local attorney who understands Oklahoma laws and the unique challenges of cases in Northwest Oklahoma City is essential. Our dedicated lawyers:

• Are familiar with the specific traffic patterns and accident hotspots in the area.
• Have relationships with local courts, law enforcement, and expert witnesses.
• Provide personalized attention to ensure your case receives the care it deserves.

Don’t wait to take the first step toward justice. Contact the trusted Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorneys at Cunningham & Mears today. Let us help you hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the compensation and closure your family deserves. Please call our office or use our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We handle wrongful death claims on a contingency fee basis.