An auto accident can happen anytime; when it does, you need to know what to do next. Your top priority should always be your health. See a doctor as soon as you can. Then, be sure to reach out to our Edmond car accident lawyers for a free consultation.
At Hasbrook & Hasbrook, our experienced car accident attorney always puts your needs first. Our Edmond, OK personal injury lawyers know that a car accident can be overwhelming. The Oklahoma City metropolitan area is one of the busiest in the country. Car accidents can happen when you least expect them. You should focus on your medical recovery, so let our Oklahoma City car accident lawyer advocate for your rights. Learn more below. Then, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your car accident lawsuit.
Car Crash Statistics From an Edmond Car Accident Lawyer: What To Know
Car accident statistics are falling in Edmond. In 2014, Edmond’s roads had three fatal accidents, down from five the year before. Still, one person lost in a car accident is too many, especially when the wreck should have been prevented. Any time a person dies or suffers an injury in a car accident due to another person’s actions, they may have a valid claim.
These cases can be very difficult. But, to make matters worse, as many as 26 percent of Oklahoma drivers do not have proper car insurance—the highest percentage in the country. This can make claiming insurance benefits more difficult and can add to the challenge of a car accident claim. With stats like these, anyone injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence should speak with an Edmond car accident lawyer.
Liability in a Car Accident Case
Liability in a car accident case will revolve around the person at fault for the accident. When the blame falls on just one person, their insurance company can be held responsible for compensating the injured party. Police reports are needed, so be sure to get a crash report to support your personal injury claim.
If more than one person is to blame for the car accident, a percentage of liability will be assigned to each party. If they are responsible for compensating an injured individual, the compensation they will have to pay will reflect that same percentage.
Modified Comparative Negligence in Edmond, OK
The modified comparative negligence standard also applies to all Edmond car accident cases. Under this legal standard, drivers considered more than 50 percent at fault for an accident cannot recover compensation.
Determining who is liable for the accident can sometimes become complicated. No one wants to accept blame for an accident, and the people at fault can quickly become defensive. Their insurance company will do what it can to minimize their liability. A car accident lawyer in Edmond can speak to the other people involved in the accident on behalf of the injured parties to settle.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Edmond
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Distracted driving. Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Edmond. Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or using a navigation system can lose focus, leading to collisions. It only takes a moment of distraction to cause a serious accident.
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Speeding. Speeding decreases a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of car accidents. Many accidents in Edmond occur because drivers ignore speed limits, especially in residential areas and school zones. High-speed crashes often result in serious injuries and property damage.
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Drunk driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major problem that leads to devastating accidents. Drunk drivers have impaired judgment and reaction times, making them a danger to everyone on the road. Edmond sees its share of accidents caused by impaired driving despite strict DUI laws.
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Reckless driving. Reckless driving behaviors, such as aggressive driving, changing lanes without signaling, and tailgating, are common causes of accidents. These actions can intimidate or surprise other drivers, leading to collisions. Our law firm often handles cases involving accidents caused by reckless driving.
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Poor weather conditions. Edmond experiences various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and ice, that can make driving hazardous. Drivers who fail to adjust their speed and driving style to match weather conditions can cause accidents. Drivers must exercise caution in bad weather to avoid accidents.
Types of Car Accident Injuries We See
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Whiplash. Whiplash is a common injury in rear-end collisions, causing neck pain and stiffness. Symptoms can appear in hours or days.
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Broken bones. Car accidents can result in fractures, often requiring surgery and long-term rehabilitation. Broken bones can notably impact a victim’s quality of life.
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. These injuries can have lifelong consequences for the victim.
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Spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis. The impact on the victim’s life and their family can be profound.
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Lacerations and bruises. Sharp objects or the force of impact can cause cuts and bruises. Though they may seem minor, they can lead to infections or other complications.
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Internal Injuries. Internal bleeding or organ damage can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. These injuries are not always immediately apparent after an accident.
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Burns. Car accidents can lead to fires, causing burns that require extensive medical treatment. Burns can leave lasting scars and require long-term care.
Car Accident in Edmond: What Do You Do Next?
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Check for injuries. Immediately after the accident, check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
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Move to safety. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and to ensure safety.
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Call the police. Even for minor accidents, it’s important to have a police report. The police will document the scene and gather information.
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Exchange information. Exchange names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information with the other driver.
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Take photos. Use your phone to take pictures of the vehicles, damage, accident scene, and any visible injuries.
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Seek medical attention. Visit a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent.
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Contact an attorney. Before talking to insurance companies, consult with our Edmond car accident lawyer to discuss your case and understand your rights.
Car Insurance in Edmond
An Edmond car accident attorney can also speak to the insurance company on behalf of the injured individual. Oklahoma is a “tort” state, which means that the at-fault party’s insurance company is responsible for paying for the damages to injured parties.
While that may sound like good news for accident victims, insurance companies evaluate claims to pay the least amount on claims. They are billion-dollar businesses to increase their profits and pay out settlements that detract from that profit.
For this reason, insurance companies sometimes resort to unethical practices to trick the injured party into admitting fault, even when they are not at fault for the accident. It is common for insurance companies to attempt to settle a car accident claim while the victim is still treated. This limits the insurance company’s payout but usually leaves the injured party with unpaid medical bills. Often, when the victim works with a lawyer, they will never even have to speak to the insurance company.
Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers in Edmond
Sometimes, the at-fault party does not have the minimum insurance required, which can seem like a hopeless case for the injured party. However, lawyers know how to still get those individuals the compensation they may be entitled to. We can still fight for you if you are struck by a driver without the required car insurance.
Although car accidents are decreasing in Edmond, when they do happen, they can be catastrophic. This is especially true because Oklahoma has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers. What happens if you have trouble getting the insurance company to pay your claim? You need an experienced lawyer who can fight for you and your family.
Let Our Edmond Car Accident Lawyer Help You Maximize Your Compensation
After a car accident in Edmond, you might face a daunting recovery process, including expensive medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of the accident. Our Edmond car accident lawyer at Hasbrook & Hasbrook is here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We have the experience and dedication to fight for your rights and stand up to insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re committed to helping you every step of the way.
We believe in personalized attention for each client, knowing that every case is unique. Our attorney will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your specific situation. By thoroughly investigating your accident, gathering all necessary evidence, and leveraging our legal proficiency, we aim to secure the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses. Trust Hasbrook & Hasbrook to provide you with the dedicated representation you need during this difficult time.
Contact an Edmond Car Accident Attorney Today
If you suffered an injury in a car accident, call an experienced Edmond car accident lawyer today. You may be eligible for compensation, and a qualified attorney can help you get it. At Hasbrook & Hasbrook, our Edmond car accident lawyers fight for car accident victims. We have experience with all types of car accident claims and can help you seek compensation.
See a doctor for your injuries first. Then, contact us to schedule a free consultation. We would be honored to fight for you and your family.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, who has years of legal experience as a personal injury lawyer. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.