If you’ve been hurt in an accident, you’re likely dealing with a mix of stress, pain, and paperwork. Taking the right steps early can make a big difference in the outcome of your injury claim. Whether it’s a slip and fall, workplace injury, or vehicle collision, speaking with an Oklahoma personal injury lawyer early in the process can help you understand what to do next.
We’ve been successfully defending the rights of injured Oklahomans for multiple decades Based on our experience, here are several key tips we share with people throughout the state.
Get Medical Care And Follow Up
After an injury, getting checked out by a doctor should be your first step—even if you feel okay. Medical records play a major role in personal injury claims. Delaying care or missing follow-up appointments could hurt your case later. Always keep a copy of your visit summaries, prescriptions, and treatment recommendations. These documents help show that your injury was serious and that you took proper steps to recover. Without this documentation of your injury, insurance companies will likely argue that you were not really injured.
Report The Incident Quickly
If the injury happened at work, report it to your employer right away. If it was from a car accident, call the police and make sure a report is filed. This creates a paper trail that can support your version of events. Take note of any witnesses and ask for their contact information. If you’re able, take photos or video at the scene. Even small details—like weather conditions or broken pavement—can be helpful later. If you and witnesses are comfortable doing so, ask them if you can make an audio or video recording of their account of the accident.
Be Careful With Insurance Communication
Insurance companies may reach out quickly to settle. It’s important not to give a recorded statement or accept any payment without understanding the full scope of your injuries and losses. Even if the representative seems helpful, their goal is to close the case quickly, often for less than it’s worth. If you’re dealing with an adjuster after a crash, speaking with a car accident lawyer before responding is often the safer move.
Document Everything
Keep a folder or digital file with everything related to your injury. This should include medical bills, pay stubs if you missed work, communication with insurance, and receipts for out-of-pocket expenses. You should also write down how the injury has affected your daily life—whether it’s limited your ability to work, care for family, or do routine activities. This kind of record can help support a claim for pain and suffering or lost wages.
Don’t Wait Too Long
Oklahoma law limits how long you have to file an injury claim. Waiting too long could mean losing the right to recover damages. The sooner you begin the process, the easier it is to gather accurate information and build a strong case. Starting early also gives your attorney more time to review everything and provide solid advice.
If you or a loved one has been hurt and need to discuss your options, we’re here to help. Our legal team at Polchinski & Smith Personal Injury Lawyers is available anytime, day or night. Reach out for a consultation— We have 24/7 live answering so that you never have to feel alone.
