Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, Bad Faith Insurance, Car Accidents, T-Bone Tractor-Trailer Accidents, Dangerous Drugs
Any car accident (and its aftermath) can be a stressful experience. But, when the at-fault driver flees the scene instead of facing the consequences of their negligence, victims can be left feeling even more overwhelmed.
Unfortunately, hit-and-runs aren’t uncommon in Tulsa. When they occur, victims face physical, emotional, and financial burdens. If you’re ever hurt in such an accident, knowing how to protect your rights after a hit-and-run is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
This blog post breaks down the steps you should take after a hit-and-run. It explains the legal options available and provides practical advice to help you navigate this difficult situation.
Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without fulfilling their legal obligations, such as providing contact information or assisting injured parties.
In Tulsa, hit-and-run accidents can result in severe penalties for the driver who fled. However, the burden often falls on the victim to protect their rights.
Under Oklahoma Statutes Title 47 § 10-102, any driver involved in an accident that results in injury, death, or property damage must stop immediately and provide their contact information.
Someone who fails to complete these steps may be guilty of a hit-and-run. Drivers who flee the scene can face felony charges, heavy fines, and even jail time.
“Any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or damage must immediately stop and fulfill reporting obligations. Failure to do so is considered a felony offense under Oklahoma law.”
One common misconception about hit-and-runs is that the victim cannot get compensation if the at-fault driver is not found. This is not true. Many car insurance policies in Oklahoma include Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This form of coverage can help victims of hit-and-run accidents get compensation for their injuries and damages, even when the drivers who caused their accidents are never properly identified.
Knowing what to do next can be difficult after any collision. Feeling unsure of your next steps may be particularly understandable when another driver flees the scene. However, taking the proper steps immediately after the accident can strengthen your claim and protect your rights.
Your safety and health are the top priority. If you or anyone else is injured, call for medical help right away.
Be sure to seek medical attention on the day of the collision. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked out by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not be noticeable right away.
Your health and safety are the priority. Always seek medical attention after an accident.
After ensuring your safety, calling the police to report the hit-and-run is critical. Filing a police report is not only a legal requirement in Oklahoma—it also creates an official record of the incident, which will be essential if you file a claim later. When reporting the accident, make sure to provide as much detail as possible, including:
Gathering evidence at the scene can strengthen your case. Photos of the damage to your vehicle, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area can all be used to support your claim.
It’s also helpful to speak to witnesses and get their contact information. Their testimony may be vital in proving the other driver’s fault.
One of the biggest challenges for hit-and-run victims is recovering compensation when the other driver is unknown. Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can make a significant difference in these circumstances.
In Oklahoma, UM coverage is included in most auto insurance policies unless a policyholder explicitly rejects it in writing. This type of coverage can provide compensation for:
UM coverage is essential in hit-and-run cases. It steps in when the at-fault driver is unknown or doesn’t have sufficient coverage.
“Uninsured motorist coverage can be a lifeline for victims of hit-and-run accidents, but filing these claims requires careful documentation and legal expertise to ensure fair compensation.”
One of the critical challenges in hit-and-run cases is proving that the other driver fled the scene. This is why gathering evidence and filing a timely police report is so important.
The insurance company may question your claim. With proper documentation and evidence, recovering the compensation available may be easier.
Even if the at-fault driver is never found, victims of hit-and-run accidents in Tulsa still have legal options to pursue compensation.
Hit-and-run victims may be entitled to compensation for:
Navigating the claims and legal processes can be overwhelming. An attorney can play an essential role in helping you understand your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Oklahoma law imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury lawsuits, which means that victims must file their lawsuit within two years of the accident date. Failing to file within this time frame could result in losing the right to pursue compensation.
Victims have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim.
| Coverage Type | What It Covers | Limits/Requirements |
| Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage | Medical expenses, lost wages, pain & suffering | Must be included in the policy |
| Collision Coverage | Damage to your vehicle | Subject to deductible |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | Medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages | Optional in Oklahoma |
| Liability Coverage (Other Driver) | Damage/injuries caused to others | Does not apply in hit-and-run |
This table helps clarify the different types of insurance coverage that may apply in a hit-and-run situation. Refer to it to better understand your options.
If you can’t identify the driver, it’s still important to report the accident to the police and your insurance company. Gather as much evidence as possible, including witness statements and photos from the scene, to support your claim.
You may recover compensation through Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This form of coverage is designed to protect you when the other driver is unknown or uninsured.
Filing a claim under your UM coverage typically will not increase your insurance rates, but this can vary depending on your insurance provider.
Hit-and-run accidents can be overwhelming. Luckily, following the proper steps and understanding your legal options can protect your rights—and help you get compensation. Gathering evidence, reporting the accident to the police, and filing a claim with your insurance company are all crucial steps.
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Tulsa, it’s essential to consult a personal injury attorney who understands Oklahoma’s insurance and traffic laws. An experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of filing a claim and ensure your rights are fully protected.
At Graves McLain Injury Lawyers, we help victims of hit-and-run accidents recover the compensation they deserve. Reach out for a consultation to learn how we can assist you.
When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.
