Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, Bad Faith Insurance, Car Accidents, T-Bone Tractor-Trailer Accidents, Dangerous Drugs
A car accident can happen in seconds but leave lasting effects. Whether it’s a fender bender or a serious crash, the moments that follow are critical. What you do—and what you avoid doing—can shape your ability to heal physically and financially.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Oklahoma, this guide outlines the most common mistakes people make and guides you on how to protect yourself. Knowing what not to do after a crash could be just as important as knowing what steps to take.
Some people think that if no one seems badly hurt and the damage is minor, they don’t need to call the police. That’s a costly mistake. A police officer documents the scene, collects witness statements, and files an official report. This report can play a significant role in insurance claims or lawsuits.
In Oklahoma, you must report any accident involving injury, death, or over $500 in property damage. Failing to do so can result in license suspension. — Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.
If you don’t have a police report, your case may turn into a matter of your word against the other driver’s. And without that official documentation, proving who was at fault becomes significantly more difficult.
Right after an accident, emotions run high. It’s natural to say things like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you.” But these statements can be taken as admissions of guilt, even if you weren’t at fault.
Oklahoma follows a comparative negligence law. This means if you’re found partly responsible, your compensation may be reduced by that percentage.
Oklahoma’s comparative negligence law may reduce your compensation if you’re found partially at fault. — 12 O.S. § 23-13
It’s best to stay calm, stick to the facts, and avoid making any statements that could be used against you later.
Never leave the scene before speaking with the other driver and law enforcement, regardless of how minor the crash appears. Leaving without exchanging information can result in criminal charges for hit-and-run, especially if someone was injured or property was damaged.
The outcome of your case depends on its specific facts. Past successes do not guarantee future results.
Oklahoma law requires you to stop, offer help if someone is hurt, and provide your name, address, and insurance details.
Accidents happen fast. But evidence starts to disappear just as quickly. Skid marks fade, debris gets cleared, and memories become unclear. Taking pictures of the scene, your vehicle, the other vehicle, and any injuries can help support your claim.
If you’re physically unable to take photos, ask someone nearby to help. Obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses. Keep notes about what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind.
Even minor injuries can worsen over time. Getting checked by a doctor after a crash helps protect both your health and your legal rights. — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Even if you feel fine after the crash, don’t assume you’re uninjured. Some injuries like concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding may take hours or days to show symptoms. Waiting too long to see a doctor can also weaken your insurance claim.
Insurers may argue that your injuries aren’t related to the crash if there’s no early medical record. Getting a medical evaluation as soon as possible defends both your health and your legal rights.
Some people don’t call a lawyer because they think the insurance company will handle everything. But even simple claims can become complicated quickly. The insurance adjuster’s job is to save their company money—not to protect your rights.
A Tulsa car accident lawyer can help guide you, deal with paperwork and deadlines, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. This includes medical bills, missed work, pain and suffering, and future care needs. Oklahoma gives you just two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit (12 O.S. § 95), so time matters.
| Mistake | Legal Consequences | Impact on Your Claim |
| Not calling police | License suspension, no official record | Weaker liability argument |
| Admitting fault | Can reduce compensation under comparative fault | Used against you by insurers |
| Leaving the scene | Criminal penalties for hit-and-run | Risk of civil and criminal action |
| Not gathering evidence | Hard to prove what happened | Delays or denial of claims |
| Skipping medical care | No record of injuries | Insurers deny or minimize injuries |
| Not contacting an attorney | Missed deadlines or undervalued claim | Lower settlement or no recovery |
Yes. An official police report creates an objective record of the accident, which can protect you if the other driver later changes their story or disputes your claim.
Leaving the scene without exchanging information or calling the police may result in criminal charges, license suspension, or fines—especially if someone was injured or property was damaged.
Yes. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Seeing a doctor creates a medical record linking your condition to the crash and strengthens your case later.
Apologies can be interpreted as admitting fault, even if you didn’t cause the crash. That can affect how fault is assigned in insurance or legal claims.
Having a lawyer ensures your full damages are accounted for, including long-term effects. They also protect your rights during negotiations or if the insurer delays or denies payment.
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering damages at all.
The time immediately following a car accident can feel overwhelming, but the actions you take—or avoid—can make a significant difference. Don’t skip calling the police. Don’t admit fault without knowing all the facts. Don’t ignore injuries, and don’t assume the insurance company is on your side.
Protecting yourself means gathering the proper evidence, seeking medical attention when necessary, and obtaining legal advice as needed. It’s about making sure you’re not left paying for someone else’s mistake.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Tulsa, Graves McLain Injury Lawyers is here to help. With extensive experience handling a wide range of car accident cases across Oklahoma, our team is dedicated to guiding customers through the entire legal process.
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.
