What if I was hit by an uninsured driver?

Hopefully you have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage. If so, your policy will cover damages, up to your limits. Our lawyers can review your policy at no-charge. If you do not have this coverage, the next step is to file a lawsuit and get judgment against the negligent driver.

What can I expect when Hasbrook & Hasbrook takes my car accident case?

We begin with a free consultation to understand the facts and determine the best course. Once retained, we gather all evidence, visit the scene, get police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Timelines depend on the circumstances, but you can expect regular updates and clear communication. We have extensive settlement and trial experience. If needed, we’re prepared for thorough trial preparation and representation, for both small and large cases.

Whose car insurance should I go through?

First, determine fault. If the other driver caused the accident, their insurance should cover the damages. You can go through your insurance, if you have Collision, Medical Payments, or Underinsured Motorist Coverage.

How much is my claim actually worth?

Unfortunately there is not an accurate settlement formula to determine what a case is worth. The claim’s value is not as simple as totaling bills and repairs as injuries, recovery time, life impact, and emotional distress do not have exact dollar figures attached to them. Sometimes the "multiplier method" gives a rough estimate, but each case is unique. Contact one of our attorneys to give you a rough estimate on what your case is worth, for free.

What are the leading causes of car accidents?

The most common accident factors per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are: 1) Distracted driving like texting or eating; 2) Speeding, giving less reaction time; 3) Drunk driving which impairs judgment and coordination; and 4) Other factors like road conditions, reckless driving, and weather.

How long do I have to file a car accident case in Oklahoma City?

Injured parties have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This is referred to as Oklahoma's “statute of limitations” for personal injury claims. Missing the deadline forfeits the claim. Exceptions include minors and government entities. However, waiting until the last minute does not help your case. Preserving time-sensitive evidence early is critical.

What happens if an insurance company acts in bad faith?

Insurance companies have a legal duty to act in good faith when handling claims made by their policyholders. If you believe your insurance company has acted in bad faith, you have options to pursue resolution, including: hiring an attorney and filing a lawsuit. Recoveries include: compensatory damages, punitive damages, and attorney fees related to your legal claim.

How much does a car accident lawyer charge?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a "contingency fee" basis, meaning the attorney fee is contingent on a settlement or verdict. If no recovery, no fee. OKC injury lawyers typically charge 33-40% of the total recovery amount. Contingency fees benefit clients because: No upfront costs, Attorney's interest in aligned with the client's (higher settlement/verdict = higher fee), allows court access for all (otherwise only corporations and wealthy could sue), risk shared between client and attorney, encourages efficiency (no incentive to waste time on frivolous suits), and protects clients from the financial risk of paying high hourly fees but losing at trial.

Can you negotiate the contingency fee agreement?

Of course! Don’t just hire the first attorney you see a TV advertisement for. A law firm’s marketing budget doesn’t equal better representation or an excuse to charge more. Before signing a contract, make sure you fully understand how a settlement will be disbursed. Also look at how litigation costs are included.

What does a car accident settlement look like?

Your attorney will prepare a “Settlement Summary” including: Total Settlement - Attorney Fees - Case Costs - Medical Bills/Insurance Paid = Payment to Client. You should ask for this Summary before signing any settlement release forms.

The driver left the scene immediately after the wreck. Does this change anything?

Yes. Oklahoma's hit-and-run law allows for three times the value of the property damage.

What is a vehicle “total” loss?

The Oklahoma statute defines a totaled car as one that needs repairs costing over 60% of the vehicle's fair market value.

What can I expect during a free consultation with a car accident lawyer?

You should expect the attorney to give you a full evaluation of your case and the expectations for settlement and trial. Be prepared to review the accident details and determine fault/liability. Discuss the injuries and medical treatment related to the wreck. Evaluate coverage and the insurance claims process. Explain legal options for maximizing compensation. A detailed explanation of the attorney fee structure. Feel free to ask plenty of questions.

Can I still file a lawsuit if I was partially at fault for the car accident?

Comparative negligence allows you to sue for damages in an Oklahoma City car accident, even if you're partly at fault. Your compensation may be adjusted based on your share of responsibility. For example, if the jury decides that you were 25% at fault for the wreck, their verdict to you will be reduced by that amount. However, if you are 50% at fault, your recovery will be reduced to zero.

Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyer | Free Case Evaluations

Office Information

Address

Hasbrook & Hasbrook
400 N Walker Ave #130, Oklahoma City, OK

Phone: 405-605-2426

Table of Contents

Focus on Healing: We Fight the Legal Battle for You

Following a car accident, the emotional and physical aftermath can be daunting. We understand the importance of your recovery and

prioritize it above all. Our team is here to provide legal support, emotional support, and guidance during this difficult period.

Emotional Support: Offering understanding and support to ease your stress.
Advocacy: Managing legal complexities and insurance issues on your behalf.
Dedicated Assistance: Addressing all your concerns and questions promptly.

Why Choose Hasbrook Law: Your Trusted Partner in Car Accident Claims

Choosing our firm brings tangible benefits:

A piece of paper with tape on two ends outlining the benefits of working with Hasbrook Law's Oklahoma City car accident lawyers. — Why Should You Choose Hasbrook Law?

Reduced Stress: We handle all legal aspects, allowing you to focus on recovery.
Peace of Mind: Knowing experienced professionals are fighting for your rights provides a sense of security.
Maximized Compensation: We strongly believe building a case for trial from the beginning results in better settlement offers. We’re ready and willing to go to trial to hold insurance companies accountable.
Experience: There’s a good chance we’ve already handled a case similar to your claim. Check out some of our case studies and prior results.
Referral-Based: Prior clients and other law firms refer most of our cases to us.
Reasonable and Transparent Attorney Fees: Our attorney fees are reduced on settlements to ensure we never receive more than the client. We also start our fees at 25% when the “industry standard” is 33%.
Efficient and Organized: We use ever-improving case management software to ensure our cases move quickly while tracking the various insurance companies, defense firms, and case value drivers.
Easy to talk to: All clients have our cell phone number and can call/text anytime

Don’t Panic: Taking Control After an Oklahoma City Car Crash

Navigating the post-accident phase is crucial for both your recovery and your legal rights:

Prioritize Safety and Seek Help: Your health and safety are paramount. Call 911 to have the police investigate and do a collision report. This can help adequately document how the wreck occurred and what the defendant driver did to cause the accident.
Gather Information: Document and photograph details at the accident scene for future use. Take photos of the vehicles involved and the other drivers’ insurance cards. Write down any conversations you have and any statements the other drivers make.
Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical care, even for minor injuries.
Insurance Notification: Inform your insurer about the accident if you have Collision, Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists, or Medical Payments Coverage. Start the claims process with the other driver’s insurance to get your property damage claim started. Typically, insurance companies will require a copy of the collision report before proceeding with the claim.
Legal Consultation: Talk to our experienced attorneys for comprehensive advice on your legal options

Maximizing Your Recovery: Understand Compensation You Deserve

The value of your car accident case in Oklahoma City can vary significantly, influenced by factors like the accident’s nature, injury types, missed work, and overall impact on your life. Consider reviewing these case studies to understand how varying facts influenced the settlement amount in different cases.

Financial Recovery: What Compensation You Can Expect

Medical Expenses: Covers all healthcare and ongoing treatment costs.
Lost Earnings: Compensation for work absences and diminished working capacity.
Property Damage: Includes repair costs or replacement value for total losses.
Pain and Suffering: Deals with the physical and emotional impact of the accident.
Punitive Damages: Applicable in cases of intentional or grossly negligent actions by the defendant.

Oklahoma Insurance Requirements

Oklahoma law only requires a “25/50/25” policy. This shorthand notation represents the following coverage limits:

$25,000 for Bodily Injury Per Person: This is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for a single person’s injuries in an accident for which you are at fault. It covers the injured party’s medical expenses, pain, suffering, and lost wages.
$50,000 for Bodily Injury Per Accident: This is the total amount the insurance company will pay for all injuries in a single accident. So, if multiple people are injured in an accident you caused, the insurance will cover up to $50,000 in total, with no individual exceeding $25,000.
$25,000 for Property Damage: This amount covers the cost of damage to another person’s property in an accident where you are at fault. This typically includes vehicle repairs but can also extend to other types of property damage, such as fences, buildings, etc.
To make matters worse, according to the Oklahoma Insurance Department, 24% of Oklahoma drivers are uninsured.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage protects people if a careless, uninsured driver hits them. It also helps if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or enough coverage when an accident occurs.
Medical Payments Coverage is an optional policy you can add to your insurance. It covers medical bills related to an accident.

Don’t Settle for Less: Protecting Your Rights From Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often employ strategies and tactics to minimize their payouts. We recognize these tactics and counter them effectively:

Low Initial Offers: Insurance companies may present quick, lowball offers. Do not take the first offer, especially if you are still seeking medical treatment. This “early” offer will not cover anything after a settlement release is signed. We’ve successfully negotiated higher settlements by showing the true extent of damages and advocating for our client’s needs.
Questioning Medical Treatments: Insurers may claim some treatments weren’t necessary. Ensure you follow your doctor’s instructions and that your doctor knows of any changing symptoms related to the accident.
Delaying Tactics: “Time is money,” so we counter delays by filing a lawsuit if the adjuster uses this tactic. We then file to get the scheduling order from the court to get deadlines.
Trial Verdicts “raise the tide” for settlement offers.

The Road To Justice: The Legal Process After an Accident

Our approach to handling car accident claims in Oklahoma City is thorough, transparent, and tailored to each client’s unique situation. The general process:

A flow chart outlining the legal process of making a claim after an Oklahoma City car accident. — What to Do After a Car Accident

Initial Consultation: We initiate by understanding the specifics of your case and offering guidance on the best course of action. We’ll review the facts of your case, explain any issues or questions you have, and let you know if you don’t need a lawyer.
Building your Case Starts: Interview witnesses, document evidence, request and compile medical records and bills, and provide proof of lost income.
Initial Settlement Demand: Once you are through with treatment or have reached “max medical improvement,” we will send the insurance company a detailed summary with copies of all relevant documents and an offer to settle. A settlement can be reached at any point after this step. If the insurance company declines to provide a fair settlement within two weeks, it’s time to file a lawsuit.
“Petition” or “Complaint”: this initiates the lawsuit. A Petition is filed in state court (Oklahoma County District Court), while a Complaint is filed in federal court (Western District of Oklahoma).
“Motion to Enter on Court’s Docket” initiates the scheduling deadlines the judge will enforce on the case.
“Discovery” Made Simple: This is the fact-finding stage, where both parties to the lawsuit gather all necessary information to strengthen their side of the case. This includes written questions – “interrogatories,” “requests for admissions,” and “requests for the production” of documents and evidence. Depositions, sworn statements under oath, occur next.
“Independent” Medical Exam: If the case has a strong chance of going to trial, the insurance company will want to have one of their doctors review your medical records and perform an exam. This doctor will testify at trial, attempting to minimize your injuries and medical treatment.
“Mediation” Is a meeting involving a neutral person who helps us and the insurance company try to reach a fair settlement. Each party will be in a separate room with their legal representative, and the mediator will go back and forth.
Pre-Trial Conference occurs shortly before the trial. The judge and the attorneys on the case make sure there are not any outstanding issues before the trial. In most cases, deadlines must be completed before this.
Bench vs. Jury Trial: A bench trial occurs before a judge without a jury. Most personal injury trials are tried before a jury.

Alarming Trends: Understanding Car Accident Risks in Your City

The Oklahoma Highway Safety Office has compiled recent crash data on severe injuries:

Icons of a car accident, a bottle and glass of wine, an outline of a young and old person, and a motorcycle bumping into a car accompanied by statistics of car accidents in Oklahoma. — Oklahoma Car Accidents By the Numbers

Overview of Oklahoma Crashes in 2020: The total number reported was 72,267, which resulted in 607 fatalities and 28,635 injuries. Of these collisions, 56.3% occurred in urban areas and the rest in rural areas. 59.3% of deaths occurred in rural areas.

Impaired Driving: 3,716 were alcohol-related auto accidents, leading to 151 fatalities and 1,839 injuries. Drug-related crashes numbered 2,044, resulting in 145 deaths and 1,100 injuries.

Speed-Related: 8,983 accidents, causing 172 fatalities and 4,913 injuries.

Motorcycle Safety: 1,342 reported motorcycle accidents resulted in 92 fatalities and 1,150 injuries. Of these, 68% of the motorcyclists killed were not wearing helmets.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety: 474 car accidents involving pedestrians led to 88 fatalities and 390 injuries. Bicycle accidents numbered 208, resulting in 4 deaths and 180 injuries.

Teen Drivers Aged 16-19 were involved in 8,848 motor vehicle accidents, resulting in 42 fatalities and 3,024 injuries.

Seat Belt and Child Restraint Use: Oklahoma’s overall seat belt use is 87.6%. Unrestrained occupants were involved in 2,450, leading to 246 fatalities and 1,597 injuries. Child restraint usage is 92.4%.

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving caused 8,581 crashes, which led to 36 fatalities and 3,630 injuries.

Commercial Motor Vehicle and Truck Accidents: Commercial vehicles were involved in 4,758 car accidents, resulting in 98 fatalities and 1,596 injuries.

Older Drivers: Drivers aged 65 and above were involved in 8,372, resulting in 134 fatalities and 2,782 injuries. The Oklahoma Distracted Driving Prevention Act and the Oklahoma Impaired Driving Elimination Act were enacted to prevent these auto accidents. These laws make it illegal to use a handheld electronic device while driving and under the influence of alcohol or drugs. By obeying these laws and engaging in safe driving habits, like wearing a seatbelt and avoiding distractions while driving, individuals can help reduce the number of car accidents and fatalities in Oklahoma City.

The Oklahoma Distracted Driving Prevention Act and the Oklahoma Impaired Driving Elimination Act have been enacted to prevent these auto accidents from occurring. These laws make it illegal to use a handheld electronic device while driving and to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. By obeying these laws and engaging in practices like wearing a seatbelt and refraining from distractions while driving, individuals can help reduce the number of car accidents and fatalities in Oklahoma City.

Get the Care You Need: Common Injuries Sustained in Car Crashes

Car and truck accidents can cause injuries, from minor bruises to life-threatening wounds. Among the most common sustained in car accidents are whiplash, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. These kinds of injuries can have enduring impacts on a person’s physical well-being and mental health, emphasizing the necessity of seeking immediate medical care after an accident.

An outline of a person with arrows pointing to common injury points in Oklahoma City car accidents. — Common Types of Car Accident Injuries

Whiplash

Whiplash is a typical car accident injury that causes neck pain, headaches, and other symptoms. It occurs when the head suddenly jerks back or forward, damaging tissues in the neck. Causes include rear-end collisions, side impacts, and rollovers – any jolt that makes the head whip. Symptoms usually appear within 24 hours and last weeks or months. Treatment involves rest, ice/heat, neck exercises, medication, and sometimes injections or surgery for nerve damage or persistent pain. While recovery time varies among individuals, early diagnosis leads to better outcomes in general.

Broken Bones

Broken bones commonly occur in car accidents due to sudden impact. Causes include high-speed collisions, injuries from seatbelts or airbags, and pedestrian accidents. Treatment often involves immobilizing the bone and managing pain, with severe breaks needing surgery. Victims should seek legal advice as they may have high medical bills, lost income, and be entitled to compensation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), severe and possibly life-changing results of high-impact incidents, occur from forceful head hits or jolts, leading to brain function damage. Most often occurring in head-on collisions and t-bone accidents, symptoms can range from headaches and confusion to coma or death, necessitating immediate medical attention after an accident. TBI treatment involves:

Immediate medical intervention.
Imaging tests to assess the full extent of the injury.
A treatment plan.
Long-term rehabilitation.

Depending on injury severity, rehabilitation may involve physical, speech, and occupational therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for emotional support. Proper treatment allows TBI patients to recover over time.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries from high-impact incidents can disrupt nerve signals between the brain and body, causing everything from temporary numbness to permanent paralysis and significantly affecting a person’s quality of life. Though there might be limitations, rehabilitation options like physical, occupational, and speech therapy aim to assist patients in restoring function and enhancing their quality of life. Long-term effects often require ongoing medical care and familial or caregiver support.

Partner with Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys

Contact us now to evaluate your case and estimate its value. Our attorneys can help. With experience in similar cases, we can guide you to a settlement or verdict.

Getting advice from an experienced injury lawyer before accepting any offer makes a difference. Our firm is client-focused, providing top-notch service, and our skilled lawyers strive for the highest compensation for our clients, as shown by our successful track record. Check out our client testimonials. Book a free consultation with us to start your journey toward fair compensation.

OKLAHOMA CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY-CLIENT REVIEW

https://maps.app.goo.gl/S2qx7iegu2XDrD1K9

Read more of our client testimonials here.

Car Accident Injury FAQs

What Makes Hasbrook & Hasbrook Different in Handling Car Accident Cases?

Personalized Approach: Every case is different, and we tailor our approach to your situation.
Local Experience: We chose our office location to be near the courthouse.
Client-Focused: We prioritize your needs and well-being throughout the legal process.

How Do You Determine the Value of My Car Accident Claim?

Comprehensive Assessment: We consider all aspects of your case, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We also have 20+ years of experience and can review our “settlement library” to assess what insurance companies are willing to pay.

What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in Oklahoma City?

Distracted Driving: This includes texting, eating, or any activity that diverts attention from driving.
Speeding: Going beyond speed limits or driving too fast for road conditions.
Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Weather Conditions: Adverse weather can lead to accidents, especially if drivers are not cautious.
Simply Not Paying Attention.

What Are the Legal Deadlines for Filing a Car Accident Claim in Oklahoma City?

Statute of Limitations: Oklahoma generally provides two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit.
Exceptions: There are exceptions, such as claims involving government entities or minors.

How Do You Handle Insurance Companies Acting in Bad Faith?

Identification of Bad Faith: We recognize when insurers are not treating your claim fairly.
Legal Action: If necessary, we can take legal action against the insurer for bad faith practices.
Maximizing Your Recovery: Our goal is to guarantee you receive the compensation you are entitled to, despite the insurer’s tactics.

Can I Negotiate the Contingency Fee Agreement with Your Firm?

Open Discussions: We believe in transparency (our contingency fees generally start at 25%) and are open to discussing our fee structure.
Customized Agreements: Our contingency fees are tailored to suit the specifics of your case, ensuring fairness and clarity for the client and us, your attorney.

What Does a Car Accident Settlement Typically Include?

Financial Breakdown: A settlement usually includes compensation for healthcare expenses, missed income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Detailed Explanation: Before agreeing to any settlement, we thoroughly detail how the funds are allocated.

How Are Hit-and-Run Cases Handled in Oklahoma City?

Legal Pursuit: We aggressively pursue all available legal options in hit-and-run cases, including working with law enforcement and using our investigative resources.
Seeking Maximum Compensation: Our focus is ensuring you receive full compensation. 47 OK Stat § 10-103 allows for three times the value of the property damage in hit-and-run accidents.

What Determines a Vehicle’s “Total Loss” in Oklahoma?

Under Oklahoma Statutes, a vehicle is considered a total loss if the cost of repairs goes beyond 60% of the car’s fair market value.

What Should I Expect During a Free Consultation for a Car Accident Case?

Case Review: We will examine the details of your accident and injuries.
Legal Options: Our team will explain your legal rights and potential strategies.
No Obligation: This consultation is free, and you are not obligated to hire us.

Can I File a Lawsuit in Oklahoma City If I Was Partially at Fault for the Car Accident?

Comparative Negligence: Oklahoma allows you to seek damages even if you are partially at fault, but your percentage of fault dictates the percentage of compensation you receive. For example, your claim would be worth $100k had you not been speeding immediately before the wreck. If the jury determines you were 20% at fault, the $100k verdict would reduced by 20% to $80k.

HIGHLY RATED LOCAL AUTO REPAIR SHOPS

OKC Auto Works
701 SE 89th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73149
Davis Paint & Collision Auto Center
10830 SE 29th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73130
Lonnie’s Auto
4301 NW 50th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73112