Oklahoma City Auto Accident Attorney
Experience has taught us that a minor injury can often turn into a severe or devastating condition. People involved in a car crash may experience pain days or weeks after the accident – these injuries are called soft-tissue injuries. Soft-tissue injuries are sometimes more painful and lasting than a simple broken bone. Whiplash is a common injury that might not be apparent at the time of the accident. It is important that you seek immediate medical attention. A delay in this treatment may lead to other serious conditions. Medical professionals may diagnose serious injuries that you aren't aware of – and documenting the care you receive will be an essential piece of information for all treating experts. Many accident victims believe their insurance will be the only assistance they need. Oklahoma law requires minimal insurance coverage and many drivers don't have insurance, despite the legal obligation to purchase it. You may not have enough protection to help pay for the long-term damages caused when someone without insurance, or with only the minimum liability limits, crashes into your vehicle. Car accidents can be caused by a number of factors, including drunk driving, improperly maintained roads and construction sites, and reckless or aggressive driving or inattention.
Insurance Companies use many tactics to avoid paying for your damages. Some of them include:
- An adjuster may attempt to settle with you before you have received adequate medical treatment. If you accept money from the insurance company you may have lost your right to recovery any further compensation, such as being advised that you will need surgery or rehabilitation for your injuries.
- If an insurance adjuster for the other driver involved in your accident tells you that you are obligated to provide a statement, this is not always true. You have legal rights before making any statement.
- Disguising a release form within payment. Sometimes insurance companies will include confusing language with a check, and you may not realize that you have signed a release simply by cashing it.
After an accident there are two types of settlements. One is for property damage, the other is for personal injury. By signing a check from the insurance company you may be finalizing your claim. If you also believe the adjuster is trying to settle with you too quickly, think before signing. The insurance company wants to settle the case for as little as possible You have two (2) years in Oklahoma to settle a personal injury claim. Medical treatment for your injuries may take this long - sometimes your injuries are permanent in nature. By signing prematurely, you may have given up your rights to sue the wrong-doer.
Zelbst, Holmes & Butler serve Oklahoma City, Lawton, Edmond, Norman, Midwest City, Del City, Moore, and all of the United States.
