Types of Damages Available
When you file a claim after an intersection accident in Oklahoma, the goal is to recover damages that compensate you for your losses. These damages are generally classified into three categories:
1. Economic Damages
Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses caused by the accident. These are typically easier to prove because they involve concrete costs and documentation. Below are the most common types of economic damages included in Oklahoma intersection accident claims:
Medical Expenses
An intersection accident can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to catastrophic damage such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or spinal cord injuries. The medical expenses you may be able to recover include:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgery or medical procedures
- Hospital stays
- Rehabilitation or physical therapy
- Prescription medications
- Assistive devices like crutches or wheelchairs
- Future medical costs for ongoing treatment
For example, if a distracted driver ran a red light and hit your vehicle, leaving you with a broken leg, you could recover the full cost of treating that injury, including follow-up care.
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If your injuries force you to miss work, you can claim compensation for your lost wages. Additionally, if your ability to work has been permanently affected, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of earning capacity.
For instance, someone who sustains injuries that prevent them from returning to their physical job—such as a delivery driver with a debilitating back injury—can receive compensation for the income they can no longer earn.
Property Damage
Intersection accidents often result in significant damage to vehicles. The cost of repairing or replacing your car, as well as any other damaged property (such as a car seat or electronics), can be recovered under property damage claims.
Example: If another driver sideswiped you while running a stop sign, causing extensive damage to your car, you could file a claim to recover repair or replacement costs.