What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Oklahoma City?

If you find yourself involved in a car accident in Oklahoma City, you may wonder what to do. With your emotions running high, you may feel lost and confused, especially if you have never experienced an accident before.

The good news is car accident lawyers know and understand how challenging it can be to navigate an accident as well as the aftermath and legal process. Here is a nine-step guide on what to do after a car accident in Oklahoma City:

Try to stay calm and focused

When involved in a car accident, you might  feel your heart beating fast, lightheaded, and your adrenaline rushing. Whether you only notice a few scratches or think you have been seriously injured, you must try to stay calm and focused.

Instead of panicking, make sure your vehicle is pulled over and out of other drivers’ way, refrain from arguing with the other driver, and call 9-1-1 to report the accident. If you are unable to move due to your injuries, remain still and wait for law enforcement and paramedics to arrive.

Prepare to answer the officers’ questions

The responding police officers will likely ask you several questions, and it is important to answer these questions as honestly as possible since your answers will likely appear in the police report. While you should be open and honest, never admit any fault until you speak with an attorney about your case.

Take photos and videos

Take as many photos or videos of the accident scene as you possibly can. Photos and videos are valuable evidence that your car accident attorney will use to substantiate your story. Some of the most important photos and videos to take are of the vehicle, your injuries, the roadway, and anything else that you think may be useful (skid marks, debris, signs, lights, etc.).

Seek medical treatment immediately

The paramedics arriving at the accident scene will likely ask you and any passengers if they would like to be taken to the nearest hospital for medical treatment. If you refuse to ride in the ambulance, it is crucial that you still go to your local emergency room or urgent care to have your injuries assessed and evaluated. Even if you do not see any injuries, it is important to keep in mind that many injuries can be hidden or unnoticed.

Inform your insurance company about the accident

Next, you want to inform your insurance company about your car accident. This conversation should be kept brief and you should let your attorney discuss any further details of your accident with your insurance company.

Contact and meet with a lawyer

Contacting and meeting with a lawyer is one of the most critical steps that you can take. If you need time to focus on your recovery, your attorney will handle any challenges that may arise and keep you up to date regarding your case.

If you want to make sure that you get are getting the best outcome possible, you should hire a lawyer at your earliest convenience. Car accident lawyers have the experience, skills, and knowledge to stand up and fight for the compensation you need and deserve to get your life back on track.

Keep documentation of everything

After a car accident, you want to document everything. You should write in a journal about what happened during the accident as well as any pain, symptoms, or injuries that you have suffered due to the accident. Retain copies of any prescriptions, insurance papers, or receipts from out-of-pocket expenses related to your accident in a safe, easily accessible place.

Collect evidence

Your attorney will ask you to collect evidence such as police reports, medical records, doctor notes, witness statements, photos, and videos to support your car accident claim. Any evidence that you have is important and should be promptly provided to your attorney.

Be available for any questions from your Tulsa injury attorney

While you will need to concentrate on the healing process, ensure that you are available to answer any questions from your attorney that may arise. When they call or email, answer or respond promptly. If they cannot get in touch with you, it could delay the entire process.

If you suffered injuries in a car accident, the car accident attorneys at Cunningham & Mears are here to help you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other losses. For over 20 years, our firm has assisted numerous clients with similar cases. If you are looking for a legal team that has experience, will remain by your side, and treat you with the utmost respect, call one of our Oklahoma City offices or fill out our contact form today. We offer free, no-obligation consultations.