Expert Auto Accident Injury Care in Tulsa, OK

After an Accident

Accidents are always a surprise, and usually very chaotic. We recommend that you prepare yourself and be ready to do a few simple things immediately after an accident:

Call the police, and an ambulance if necessary. Even if you’re not hurt, it’s important for insurance purposes to have a police report of the accident.

Take pictures. You probably have a smartphone, so make sure you snap some photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and if necessary, your injuries. Your photos could be useful for insurance purposes.

Call your insurance provider. Your insurance provider has processes for auto accidents. Make sure you notify them as soon as possible following your accident so they can begin working for you.

Call us and make an appointment. Even if you are unsure about the extent of your injuries, or if you are injured at all, you still need to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries develop over time and are not instantly noticeable.


 

Yes, it’s generally a good idea to call the police after a car accident, even if it seems minor and no one feels pain immediately. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Documentation: The police can create an official accident report, which can be important for insurance claims and legal purposes. This report will include details about the accident, statements from those involved, and any potential witnesses.

2. Delayed Symptoms: Injuries from car accidents can sometimes manifest hours or even days later. Having a police report can be crucial if medical issues arise later on.

3. Liability and Insurance: Even in minor accidents, issues around fault and liability can arise. A police report can help clarify what happened and support your case with the insurance company.

4. Legal Requirements: In some jurisdictions, you’re legally required to report accidents to the police, even if they seem minor.

5. Avoiding Disputes: Without a police report, there might be disputes later about the details of the accident, such as the extent of damage or who was at fault.

The number one tip following an auto accident is to ensure safety first. After an accident, it is important to move your vehicle to a safe place if possible and check for any injuries. If there are any serious injuries, call 911 immediately.

Once safety has been ensured, it is important to gather as much information as possible at the scene. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Take photos of the damages to all vehicles involved, as well as any visible injuries.

 

Appointments & Visits

You can call us at 918-888-3384 to schedule your appointment or book online through our website. Walk-in appointments are available as well.

We can typically see you same day or next day.  During your visit you will be evaluated by a licensed physician, you will receive necessary imaging (x-ray, MRI, CT), you will receive prescribed therapeutic treatment, and you will leave with medications if necessary.

Please allow for 90 minutes for your first visit for the full process of check in, evaluation, imaging, and therapeutic treatment.  Follow up visits for therapeutic treatment and reevaluations typically take 30 – 60 minutes.

 

It’s important to bring all pertinent information with you on your first visit. This includes your ID, a claim number if you have it and any documentation of attorney representation.

Treatment

Our team of physicians and PAs can handle nearly all diagnosis procedures, and we will take care of as much of your treatment as you allow. In the event you require treatment that is not available at our facility, we will refer you to a specialist. We strive to provide as much treatment for our patients on-site as we possibly can.

It’s important to finish treatment with your provider at Tulsa Accident Care Center for several key reasons:

1. Complete Recovery: Completing the full course of treatment ensures that you fully recover from any injuries sustained in the accident. Stopping treatment early could result in lingering or worsening symptoms.

2. Accurate Medical Records: Consistent treatment creates a thorough medical record, which is essential if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. Gaps in treatment can be used against you to argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as claimed.

3. Prevent Long-Term Issues: Some injuries, especially those related to the neck, back, or spine, can have long-term consequences if not fully treated. Finishing your treatment can help prevent chronic pain or other complications.

4. Insurance Compliance: Many insurance companies require that you complete your prescribed treatment before they’ll fully cover your medical expenses. Ending treatment prematurely could affect your claim and leave you responsible for unpaid bills.

5. Legal Protection: If your case goes to court, having completed your treatment demonstrates that you took your injuries seriously and followed medical advice, which strengthens your position.

Insurance & Payment

We focus on injured victims of auto accidents where the at fault party’s auto insurance pays for treatment.  Most victims of auto accidents do not need insurance to receive medical treatment.

Health insurance will not pay and is not accepted.  There are occasions where the at fault party’s or single car accident victim’s auto insurance includes coverage for medical treatment – please call our office to discuss.

We handle payment collection through third party auto insurance.  We focus on injured victims of auto accidents where the at fault party’s auto insurance pays for treatment.  Most victims of auto accidents are not responsible for paying for their medical care as a result of the accident.

There are occasions where the at fault party’s or single car accident victim’s auto insurance includes coverage for medical treatment – please call our office to discuss.

We focus on injured victims of auto accidents where the at fault party’s auto insurance pays for treatment.  Most victims of auto accidents do not need insurance to receive medical treatment.

Health insurance will not pay and is not accepted.  There are occasions where the at fault party’s or single car accident victim’s auto insurance includes coverage for medical treatment – please call our office to discuss.

Insurance adjusters often use various tactics to minimize the amount they pay in settlements after a car accident. Being aware of these tactics can help you protect your rights and negotiate a fair settlement. Here are some common strategies:

1. Quick Settlement Offers
Adjusters may offer a quick, lowball settlement soon after the accident, hoping you’ll accept it before understanding the full extent of your injuries or damages.
Avoid accepting any offers until you’ve fully assessed your injuries and the total cost of repairs. Consult with a legal professional if needed.

2. Downplaying Injuries
Adjusters might argue that your injuries are minor or pre-existing, suggesting that you don’t need as much compensation as you’re asking for.
Provide thorough medical documentation and maintain consistent treatment to support your claim.

3. Requesting a Recorded Statement
Adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement, hoping you’ll say something that can be used to reduce your claim.
Politely decline to give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney, as anything you say could be used against you.

4. Delaying the Claim
Some adjusters may intentionally delay processing your claim, hoping you’ll become frustrated and accept a lower settlement.
Stay patient, document all communication, and consider seeking legal advice if delays continue.

5. Blaming You for the Accident
The adjuster might suggest that you were partially or fully at fault for the accident to reduce the payout.
Collect evidence like photos, police reports, and witness statements to support your version of events.

6. Misrepresenting Insurance Coverage
They may incorrectly state that certain damages or injuries aren’t covered under your policy to lower your expectations.
Review your insurance policy thoroughly or consult with an attorney to understand your coverage.

7. Offering a Settlement Without Medical Evaluation
Adjusters may offer a settlement before you’ve had a full medical evaluation, hoping to settle before you realize the full extent of your injuries.
Wait until you’ve completed all medical treatments and have a clear understanding of your condition before settling.

8. Pressuring You to Settle Quickly
They may use various tactics to pressure you into settling quickly, such as suggesting that the offer will be lower later or that they’re doing you a favor by offering a quick resolution.
Take your time to evaluate the offer, and don’t let pressure tactics force you into an unfair settlement.

9. Disputing the Necessity of Medical Treatment
The adjuster might question the necessity or duration of your medical treatment, claiming it was excessive or unrelated to the accident.
Ensure your treatment is well-documented by your healthcare provider, with clear connections to the accident injuries.

10. Undervaluing Vehicle Damage
Adjusters may undervalue the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
Obtain independent repair estimates and compare them with the adjuster’s offer to ensure it’s fair.

Understanding these tactics can help you navigate the settlement process more effectively, ensuring you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

When dealing with an insurance company after an auto accident, it’s important to be careful about what information you share. Here’s a guide to what you should and shouldn’t disclose:

INFORMATION TO SHARE

  1. Basic Details About The Accident
    • Date, time and location
    • Weather and road conditions
    • Involved vehicles
  2. Contact Information
    • Your name, address and phone number
    • The names and contacts of other drivers involved
    • Insurance information for all parties involved, including policy numbers
  3. Police Report Details
    • The police report number and the name of the officer who responded
    • If possible, a copy of the official police report
  4. Facts of the Accident
    • A brief, factual description of what happened
    • Injuries: Mention if anyone was injured, but avoid going into too much detail
  5. Photos and Documentation
    • Photos of vehicle damage, license plates and accident scene
    • Repair estimates and medical bills as they become available

 

INFORMATION TO AVOID SHARING

  1. Admitting fault
    • Avoid statements like “it was my fault” or “I’m sorry.” Determining fault is a complex legal issue and should be left to the insurance companies and legal professionals.
  2. Speculating or Giving Opinions
    • Stick to the facts. 
  3. Details About Your Injuries
    • While you should mention that you were injured, avoid going into detail about your injurues until you have been fully evaluated by a doctor. Some injuries take time to manifest, and premature statements can be used against you.
  4. Recorded Satements
    • Don’t agree to provide a recorded statement without first consulting an attorney. These can be used to dispute your claims later.
  5. Settlement Talkes
    • Avoid discussing settlement amounts or accepting any offers without first reviewing your options and consulting with a legal professional if necessary.

A physician’s lien is a legal claim that a healthcare provider (such as a doctor or medical facility) files to ensure they receive payment for medical services rendered to a patient who was injured in an accident. This lien is typically filed against any potential settlement or judgment that the patient may receive from a personal injury claim.

It’s crucial to see a doctor immediately following an auto accident for early detection of injuries, medical documentation, legal protection and your overall health and well-being.

Dealing with your job after a car accident can be challenging, especially if you’re injured or need time to recover. Here’s a guide on what steps to take:

1. Notify your employer about the accident as soon as possible, even if you’re not sure how it will affect your ability to work.

2. Get a detailed medical evaluation and request a doctor’s note outlining your injuries, treatment plan and any work restrictions or recommended time off.

3. Understand your rights and benefits, including sick leave, PTO, short-term disability and Family and Medical Leave Act.

4. Keep your employer updated on your recovery progress and any changes in your ability to work. Open communication helps them plan for your absence or modified duties.

5. Document all communications with your employer, medical records, doctor’s notes and any accommodations or work restrictions.

Still need help?

Click on the red button at the bottom right corner of this page. You can also give us a call at 918-888-8080