Oklahoma handles car accidents through a fault-based system, contrary to some misconceptions about it being a no-fault state. When metal meets metal on Oklahoma roads, the person who caused the crash foots the bill.
Here’s the deal: if you get into a wreck in Oklahoma, the driver who caused the damage is responsible. Their insurance company will write the checks for medical bills, car repairs, and other costs that accumulate after the crash.
You’ve got options when dealing with the aftermath. You could go through your insurance if you’ve got the proper coverage. Or you might file directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance company (what the lawyers call a “third-party claim”). If push comes to shove, you can take it to court.
The law requires all Oklahoma drivers to carry insurance meeting these minimums:
- $25,000 for injuries to one person
- $50,000 total when multiple people get hurt
- $25,000 for damaged property
Here’s where it gets interesting: Oklahoma uses “modified comparative negligence.” In plain English, you can still earn money even if you were partly to blame – as long as you weren’t mostly at fault (less than 51%). Your payout gets trimmed by whatever percentage was your fault.
Bottom line: If someone hits your car in Oklahoma, they (and their insurance) are responsible for making things right. Remember, the clock is ticking when you can file a claim, so don’t drag your feet.
