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Last Modified on Nov 11, 2025
The highways in the Oklahoma City area are inherently dangerous. It’s vital to know what to do after a car accident on I-35, I-40, or I-44 in Oklahoma City, and the first steps you take after a crash have a significant impact on your recovery. Knowing what to do after such an incident can help you succeed with your legal efforts when another driver is responsible for causing the accident.
What to Do After a Car Accident on I-35, I-40, or I-44 in Oklahoma City
Accidents on highways usually happen at higher speeds, so there is a significant risk of serious injury. In Oklahoma, drivers involved in an accident are required to remain at the scene, move their vehicles out of traffic if possible, and report the accident to 911 immediately. Failure to report an accident can lead to criminal penalties, so call 911 right away if no one else has already done so.
If you are seriously injured, do not move, as doing so could worsen your injuries. Wait for first responders to provide medical attention. If you can do so, take photos of your injuries, the damage to your vehicle, the position of your car in the road, and the surrounding area while you wait for first responders. Since highway traffic moves fast, it’s a good idea to move the vehicles out of the lanes of traffic if at all possible, but this may not be an option.
First responders will arrive as soon as possible to provide medical attention and transport critically injured victims to the nearest hospital. They will also interview those involved and direct oncoming traffic while the crash scene is cleared. Once you are allowed to leave, you should seek medical treatment immediately, even if you think you only sustained minor injuries.
You may have suffered internal injuries that have not yet caused noticeable symptoms, and a prompt medical evaluation can rule out anything serious. After you have received medical attention, you should hire a car accident lawyer before attempting to file an auto insurance claim or pursuing any compensation for your damages. The right attorney can build an effective case and increase your chances of maximizing your recovery.
Recovering From a Car Accident in Oklahoma City
The 2021 Crash Summary from the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety reported a total of 66,074 vehicle crashes resulting in 30,195 injuries and 762 deaths statewide. Most accidents result from negligence, such as distracted driving or speeding, but they can also result from illegal misconduct like drinking and driving. If another party caused your accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages.
An Oklahoma City car accident lawyer will be an invaluable asset to your recovery efforts. Your attorney can gather the evidence you need to establish fault for the accident, accurately determine the full scope of your claimable damages, and help you prepare for the ensuing proceedings. Recovery may require filing an auto insurance claim against the at-fault driver, building a personal injury case, or pursuing multiple avenues of recovery.
Ultimately, any accident on I-35, I-40, or I-44 can be tremendously damaging, and it is vital to know what to do in the aftermath of such an incident. The team at Fulmer Sill strives to empower injured people in their personal injury cases, and we are confident we can help you recover maximum compensation for your damages. Reach out to our firm at your first opportunity to learn more about our legal services in Oklahoma City.
FAQs
How Do You Prove Liability for a Highway Accident in Oklahoma City?
Proving liability for a highway accident in Oklahoma City may require various forms of evidence that a skilled attorney can obtain on your behalf. You may need drivers’ cell phone records, vehicle computer data, statements from eyewitnesses, police reports, and photos of the crash scene to prove liability. Your attorney can obtain the evidence you need quickly and help you build your case.
How Much Compensation Can I Claim for a Car Accident in Oklahoma City?
The amount of compensation you can claim for a car accident in Oklahoma City depends on the severity of your damages. If you can prove another party is responsible for causing the accident, you have the right to claim compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, lost future earning capacity, vehicle repair costs, and pain and suffering. You have limited time to pursue this compensation, so you need to hire a car accident lawyer right away.
What Happens if You Don’t Report a Car Accident in Oklahoma City?
If you don’t report a car accident in Oklahoma City, this can lead to serious criminal penalties, including a fine, driver’s license suspension, or even jail time if the accident resulted in injury or death. A driver who leaves the scene of a crash without reporting can be charged with hit-and-run. In addition to criminal penalties, they can also face increased insurance premiums and various other consequences. If in doubt, report the accident to 911 to err on the side of caution.
Why Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
You should hire a car accident lawyer to have a better chance of reaching a positive outcome in your case. The right attorney can help you prove liability for the accident, accurately determine the full scope of your claimable damages, and help you resolve your case efficiently. You’re more likely to succeed with your recovery efforts and more likely to maximize your compensation with a skilled attorney representing you.
What Does it Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Oklahoma City?
The cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Oklahoma City depends on the lawyer you choose to represent you. At Fulmer Sill, we handle personal injury cases on a contingency basis, meaning we only charge our clients a fee if we win their case. There is no upfront cost for our representation, and the contingency fee is a percentage of the final case award or settlement.
Ultimately, every driver must know what to do after a car accident on I-35, I-40, or I-44 in Oklahoma City. The aftermath of any accident can be traumatic and uncertain, so hiring a car accident lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and support in this difficult time. The team at Fulmer Sill strives to empower injured people in their personal injury cases. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your case.
