Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Car Accidents, Medical Malpractice, Vaccine Injuries
When a driver flees the scene after hitting someone, the impact goes beyond physical injuries. It creates confusion, stress, and numerous unanswered questions. That’s precisely what happened in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, when two pedestrians were hospitalized following a hit-and-run crash in a restaurant parking lot. If you’ve been injured while walking or know someone who has, here’s what you should understand about these cases and your legal options in Oklahoma.
On a Sunday evening near 71st Street and 145th East Avenue, police responded to reports of a serious hit-and-run crash involving two pedestrians outside a Jack in the Box restaurant. Both individuals, a man and a woman, were seriously hurt—one with a broken leg and the other with a serious head injury. According to witnesses, the victims may have known the driver who struck them.
The vehicle involved was later recovered elsewhere in Tulsa, but the suspect was still at large at the time of reporting.
Drivers who leave the scene of a crash involving injury or death may face felony charges under Oklahoma law, states the Oklahoma Statutes Title 47, § 10-102.
Crashes like this raise a lot of concerns, especially for victims unsure of what to do next when the driver vanishes.
Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common across Oklahoma. While some years see a decline in deaths, injury rates remain high—and in many cases, they’re climbing.
According to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, 566 pedestrians were injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2013, up from 564 in 2012 — even as fatality rates slightly declined.
These accidents often impact the most vulnerable members of our community—children, seniors, and people walking in low-light conditions.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data shows that nearly one in five children killed in crashes were pedestrians. Adults 65+ account for 20% of pedestrian fatalities nationwide.
In growing cities like Broken Arrow and Oklahoma City, heavier traffic and distracted driving contribute to the risk.
| Year | Pedestrian Injuries | Pedestrian Fatalities | Trend |
| 2012 | 564 | 67 | Baseline |
| 2013 | 566 | 61 | ↓ Fatalities |
| 2021 | 598 (est.) | 69 | ↑ Injuries |
| 2023 | 610 (est.) | 64 | ↑ Overall |
Leaving the scene of a crash is a serious offense. In Oklahoma, drivers are legally required to stop, provide aid, and report the incident. If a driver flees, they may face felony charges—especially if someone is hurt. But for injured pedestrians, the biggest question is: What now?
Even if the at-fault driver isn’t found, victims may still recover compensation through their uninsured motorist policy or a civil lawsuit.
Oklahoma drivers are required to carry liability insurance, but that doesn’t always help when the responsible party disappears. If the driver can’t be identified, victims may need to file a claim under their own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Pedestrian crashes often lead to serious injuries—head trauma, spinal damage, broken bones, and long-term pain. If you’ve been hurt, you may have a legal right to recover damages.
Oklahoma follows a comparative fault rule. That means even if you were partially responsible (for example, crossing outside a crosswalk), you could still recover compensation as long as you were less than 51% at fault.
In Oklahoma, comparative negligence law (Title 23 §13) means that a pedestrian can still claim damages if they are less than 51% at fault in the accident.
Victims may be eligible to recover for:
Filing a personal injury claim is a key step to getting financial relief—but the process can be complicated to navigate, especially if police don’t find the driver right away.
Trying to recover from an injury while also dealing with paperwork, insurance adjusters, and investigators can be overwhelming. That’s where a pedestrian accident lawyer in Oklahoma City or Broken Arrow can help.
An attorney can:
If your injuries were made worse by hospital delays or improper care, a medical malpractice lawyer in Broken Arrow may also step in to evaluate whether negligence played a role.
Having a legal team that understands local laws and the Tulsa-area court system can make a real difference—especially when the driver is unknown or disputes fault.
While drivers and pedestrians each have a role to play in preventing accidents, it’s essential to recognize that even when people follow the rules, negligence can still occur.
Nearly one-third of all pedestrian fatalities occur between 8:00 p.m. and midnight. Bad weather, dark clothing, and low lighting often make these crashes harder to avoid. Even with caution, serious accidents still happen. Knowing your rights and getting legal help early can protect your future.
Yes. You can file a claim through your uninsured motorist policy or seek damages through other legal channels with help from an attorney.
Possibly. Under Oklahoma’s comparative fault law, you can still recover damages if you are found to be less than 51% at fault for the crash.
Oklahoma’s statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s best to act quickly so evidence isn’t lost.
If your injuries were made worse due to delayed or negligent care, you may also have a medical malpractice case. A personal injury law firm can guide you.
Lawyers can utilize footage, vehicle debris, medical evidence, and expert analysis to construct a strong case. You don’t need to have all the answers on your own.
Pedestrian accidents can leave behind more than physical injuries—they also cause lasting emotional and financial stress. When a hit-and-run occurs, it’s easy to feel powerless, especially if the driver disappears. But Oklahoma law offers options, and victims don’t have to face the process alone.
Whether the driver is caught or not, a personal injury law firm like Graves McLain Injury Lawyers can help you explore every available path toward recovery. From filing uninsured motorist claims to navigating medical disputes, legal support can ease the burden and protect your future.
If you were hit by a car in Oklahoma—especially in Broken Arrow, Tulsa, or Oklahoma City—take the first step. Learn your rights, ask questions, and consider consulting with a lawyer who prioritizes your recovery.
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.
