Runner Fatally Struck By Car in Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident 

A runner is dead after being struck by a car in northwest Oklahoma City the evening of November 4, according to News 9. The fatal incident occurred near Northwest 41st Street and North May Avenue, an area known for limited street lighting. The man was running down the street when he was fatally hit by a passing vehicle. Police have stated that early findings suggest the crash was accidental. There is no indication of impairment or reckless driving at this time. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, including reviewing possible surveillance footage from nearby businesses. As the investigation remains ongoing, additional details are expected to be released once family members have been notified.

Tragic pedestrian accidents like this one serve as a reminder of how quickly a routine evening can turn deadly. Oklahoma City authorities encourage both drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant, especially in low-visibility conditions or poorly lit areas. When a pedestrian is struck and killed, families deserve compassionate legal guidance and a strong advocate to help them seek justice. If you’ve lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you don’t have to face this difficult time alone. Our experienced attorneys at Hawkins Felton understand the devastating impact of these tragedies and are dedicated to helping families pursue accountability and fair compensation. Give us a call at (918) 583-6007 and let us take care of you. 

Seek Relief From an Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident Attorney 

After a serious or fatal pedestrian accident, the aftermath can feel unbearable, which is why it’s so important to have access to a strong Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney. At Hawkins Law Firm, our compassionate legal team understands how devastating pedestrian accidents can be. Families are suddenly faced with grief, financial hardship, and countless unanswered questions. Victims who survive may endure painful, long-term injuries that disrupt every aspect of daily life. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages can quickly become overwhelming. During such a difficult time, having a knowledgeable Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney on your side can make all the difference. 

Our experienced lawyers can guide you through the legal process, handle communication with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are fully protected while you focus on healing or supporting your loved ones. We work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable and to recover the compensation victims and their families deserve for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering. Whether the crash resulted from distracted driving, speeding, or poor visibility, we will investigate every detail to uncover the truth. You don’t have to face this alone. Our attorneys are here to help you seek justice and financial relief. 

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Oklahoma City

Pedestrian accidents are alarmingly common in Oklahoma City, where busy intersections, high-speed roadways, and distracted driving create a dangerous combination. Even when pedestrians follow the rules, drivers often fail to notice them in time to prevent a collision. Understanding the most common causes of these accidents can help both drivers and pedestrians stay alert. It can also help victims identify whether negligence played a role in their crash.

Distracted Driving and Cell Phone Use

Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Oklahoma City. Drivers who text, check social media, or use GPS take their eyes off the road for just a few seconds. That’s enough time to miss a pedestrian crossing the street. In many cases, distracted drivers don’t even brake before impact. Oklahoma law prohibits texting while driving, but enforcement alone can’t prevent every incident. Victims injured by distracted drivers often have strong grounds to pursue compensation through a pedestrian accident claim, especially when phone records or witness statements confirm inattention was a factor.

Failure to Yield at Crosswalks and Intersections

Crosswalks are designed to protect pedestrians, but far too many drivers ignore them or misjudge right-of-way. Intersections like those along Northwest Expressway, Classen Boulevard, and South Western Avenue see frequent pedestrian collisions due to drivers failing to yield when turning or running red lights. In Oklahoma City, pedestrians generally have the right of way when using marked crosswalks, but a distracted or impatient driver can still cause catastrophic harm. When motorists fail to yield, the resulting impact can lead to severe or fatal injuries. Victims have the right to hold those drivers accountable for their negligence.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding greatly increases the risk of a serious pedestrian accident. The faster a car is traveling, the less time the driver has to react. That means the greater the force of impact when a collision occurs. Oklahoma City has numerous high-speed corridors where pedestrians often cross, including areas near shopping centers, bus stops, and schools. Reckless behaviors such as racing through yellow lights, weaving between lanes, or tailgating can also reduce visibility and make it nearly impossible for a driver to avoid a pedestrian in time. When a driver’s excessive speed or aggressive behavior causes an accident, they may be held liable for the full extent of the victim’s injuries and damages.

Poor Visibility and Low-Light Conditions

A significant number of Oklahoma City pedestrian accidents occur during early morning or nighttime hours, when visibility is low. Street lighting, weather conditions, and driver attentiveness all play a role. Drivers who fail to use headlights properly, drive too fast for the conditions, or fail to scan for pedestrians are at a higher risk of causing a crash. Pedestrians wearing dark clothing or crossing mid-block are also more vulnerable during these times. Even in that case, drivers still have a legal duty to maintain awareness and operate their vehicles safely.

Weather Conditions and Reduced Traction

Rain, fog, and icy roads can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians or stop in time to avoid a collision. While the weather cannot be controlled, drivers are still required under Oklahoma law to adjust their speed and behavior according to conditions. Failing to slow down, keep headlights on, or maintain a safe following distance in bad weather may constitute negligence. When poor weather combines with driver carelessness, the results can be devastating for pedestrians who have no protection against impact.

Common Injuries Sustained in Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often result in devastating injuries because victims have no physical protection against the force of a moving vehicle. Even a low-speed impact can cause catastrophic harm, while high-speed collisions frequently lead to permanent disability or death. Victims of these accidents face not only immense physical pain but also emotional trauma and financial stress as they try to recover. Understanding the most common injuries can help you recognize the importance of immediate medical care and the role an Oklahoma City pedestrian accident lawyer can play in helping you pursue compensation for your losses.

Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries

One of the most serious outcomes of a pedestrian accident is a traumatic brain injury. When a pedestrian’s head strikes the pavement, a vehicle, or another hard surface, the brain can sustain severe trauma. TBIs range from mild concussions to permanent brain damage that affects speech, memory, and cognitive function. Victims often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, which can lead to mounting expenses and emotional hardship. These cases frequently warrant significant compensation due to their lifelong impact on quality of life.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The spine is especially vulnerable in a pedestrian collision. A sudden blow or twisting motion can result in damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Victims may lose mobility, experience chronic pain, or require long-term medical support. These injuries not only alter a person’s ability to work but also their capacity to live independently. An Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney can work with medical experts to determine the full extent of these damages and seek compensation for medical care, assistive devices, and home modifications.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones are among the most common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents. Victims often suffer fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis due to the impact of being struck or thrown to the ground. While some fractures heal with time, others require surgery, physical therapy, and lengthy recovery periods. Multiple fractures or compound breaks can lead to permanent mobility issues and chronic pain, preventing victims from returning to their normal routines or jobs.

Internal Injuries and Organ Damage

The force of a car striking the human body can cause severe internal trauma even when there are few visible injuries. Internal bleeding, punctured organs, and collapsed lungs are all possible outcomes of a high-impact crash. These conditions are often life-threatening and require emergency surgery. Since internal injuries aren’t always immediately apparent, it’s crucial for victims to seek medical attention after any pedestrian accident, even if they feel fine initially. Early diagnosis and documentation are key to both recovery and building a strong legal claim.

Psychological and Emotional Trauma

Beyond the physical injuries, many pedestrian accident victims suffer lasting emotional and psychological effects. Post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and nightmares are common after experiencing or witnessing such a traumatic event. Victims may fear crossing streets or reliving the accident in daily life. These invisible injuries are just as real as physical ones, and mental health treatment should be factored into any claim for compensation.

Steps to Take After an Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident 

Being struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian can be shocking and disorienting. The moments following the accident are critical for your safety, your health, and your ability to pursue fair compensation later. Knowing what steps to take can help protect your rights and strengthen your case if you decide to work with an Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney.

Ensure Safety and Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your first concern after an accident should always be safety. If you’re struck by a vehicle, move out of harm’s way if possible, but avoid standing in traffic or attempting to walk far if you’re injured. Even when you don’t feel immediate pain, adrenaline can mask symptoms of serious injuries like fractures, internal bleeding, or concussions.

Call 911 and Wait for Emergency Responders

Once you’re safe, call 911 immediately to report the accident. Emergency responders will dispatch both law enforcement and medical personnel to the scene. Paramedics can assess your condition and determine whether you need to be transported to a hospital. If you’re unable to call, ask a bystander to make the call for you. Remaining at the scene until help arrives ensures that an official report is filed and that your injuries are properly documented from the very beginning.

Document Your Injuries Early

After receiving emergency care, follow up with a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, especially those to the head, neck, or spine, may not show symptoms until hours or days later. Keeping a detailed record of every medical visit, diagnosis, and treatment recommendation creates a timeline that directly links your injuries to the accident. This documentation is vital when filing a claim and can significantly strengthen your case.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you’re physically able to do so, collecting evidence right after the accident can help preserve key details that might otherwise be lost. While police officers will also document the scene, the evidence you personally gather can provide an important additional perspective.

Take Photos and Videos

Photographs and videos can serve as powerful evidence in your case. Capture wide shots that show the full scene, as well as close-ups of the damage to the vehicle, debris, crosswalks, traffic lights, and any visible injuries you sustained. These visuals can help establish fault by showing factors like visibility, weather conditions, and where you were standing when the impact occurred. The sooner these images are taken, the more accurately they reflect the true conditions at the time of the accident.

Obtain Contact Information

If possible, exchange contact and insurance information with the driver involved. Stay calm and avoid discussing fault or liability. It’s also important to identify any witnesses who may have seen the crash take place. Ask for their names and phone numbers, as their statements can help corroborate your version of events later on. When witnesses can confirm that you were walking lawfully or that the driver was distracted, their testimony can become a valuable component of your claim.

Report the Accident to Law Enforcement

A police report provides an objective record of what happened and is a key piece of evidence in any pedestrian accident claim. Officers who respond to the scene will gather statements, inspect the vehicles, and determine whether any citations should be issued.

Provide a Factual Account

When speaking with law enforcement, it’s important to give a calm and factual description of the events leading up to the collision. Avoid speculating about the cause or assigning blame. Simply describe what you saw, heard, and experienced. The police will compile this information into a formal report, which often includes crucial details like the time of day, lighting conditions, and whether either party violated traffic laws. This report becomes a cornerstone of your claim, supporting your version of events in discussions with insurance companies or in court.

Request a Copy of the Report

Once the police report is filed, request a copy from the Oklahoma City Police Department as soon as it becomes available. Review it carefully and notify your attorney of any inaccuracies. Having this document allows your Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney to build a stronger, evidence-based case on your behalf.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Even if you weren’t driving at the time of the crash, your own auto or health insurance may still provide certain benefits or coverage for medical treatment. Just remember to be cautious in how you communicate with insurers after an accident.

Be Cautious in Communications

When reporting the incident, provide only the essential facts such as the time, date, and location of the accident. Avoid speculating about fault or offering recorded statements without legal guidance. Insurance adjusters often look for statements that can reduce their liability, so it’s best to let your attorney handle discussions regarding fault or settlement amounts. A knowledgeable Oklahoma City pedestrian accident lawyer can ensure your rights are protected throughout this process and that you don’t inadvertently say something that could harm your claim.

Consult an Experienced Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident Attorney Early

After seeking medical treatment and notifying law enforcement, it’s wise to contact an experienced Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible. Legal representation can make a major difference in the success of your claim. Attorneys understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts and know how to counter them effectively.

Protect Your Rights Early

A lawyer can begin working immediately to preserve critical evidence before it disappears. This may include sending preservation letters to request traffic camera footage, obtaining black box data from the vehicle, and interviewing witnesses while their memories are still fresh. The sooner you seek legal help, the better your chances of securing a strong foundation for your case.

Understand Your Legal Options

Oklahoma law imposes strict time limits on how long you have to file a pedestrian accident claim. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to pursue compensation. An experienced attorney can explain your options, determine the full extent of your damages, and develop a strategy tailored to your situation. By acting quickly and working with a dedicated legal advocate, you can focus on healing while your attorney handles the complex legal process on your behalf.

Seeking Compensation After an Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident

The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can leave victims facing overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and long-term physical or emotional challenges. Fortunately, Oklahoma law gives injured pedestrians the right to pursue compensation when another party’s negligence caused their injuries. Understanding how this process works can help you feel more confident as you move forward. With guidance from an experienced Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney, you can navigate the legal system efficiently and maximize your recovery.

Understanding Your Right to Compensation

When a driver’s careless or reckless behavior causes a pedestrian accident, the victim has the right to seek compensation for both financial and non-financial losses. These damages are meant to restore, as much as possible, the victim’s physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Compensation can cover a wide range of losses, including hospital bills, ongoing medical treatment, missed work, emotional distress, and the lasting pain associated with the injuries.

Economic Damages in a Pedestrian Accident Claim

Economic damages represent the direct financial losses resulting from the accident. These include medical expenses such as emergency treatment, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and future care needs. Victims can also recover compensation for lost income if their injuries prevent them from working, as well as diminished earning capacity if they are unable to return to their previous occupation. In addition, property damage, transportation costs, and any out-of-pocket expenses related to recovery are typically included in this category.

Non-Economic Damages for Pain and Suffering

Beyond measurable financial losses, victims may also pursue compensation for non-economic damages. That includes the emotional and psychological suffering caused by the accident. These can include physical pain, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and the loss of enjoyment of life. Since these damages are more subjective, an Oklahoma City pedestrian accident lawyer can help demonstrate their true impact through medical documentation, expert testimony, and personal statements.

How Fault and Negligence Affect Compensation

To recover compensation, the injured party must show that another individual or entity acted negligently. In Oklahoma, negligence is generally defined as the failure to use reasonable care to avoid harming others. Proving negligence in a pedestrian accident case requires evidence that the driver breached a duty of care and that this breach directly caused the victim’s injuries.

Comparative Negligence in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, which means compensation may be reduced if the injured pedestrian shares some responsibility for the accident. For example, if the pedestrian was determined to be 20% at fault for crossing outside of a designated crosswalk, their total compensation would be reduced by that percentage. Victims who are 50% or less responsible for the crash may still recover damages. An attorney can help evaluate fault, protect your rights, and ensure that you are not unfairly blamed for the accident.

The Role of Insurance Companies

After a pedestrian accident, victims often deal with multiple insurance companies, including the driver’s auto insurer and possibly their own. While these companies may appear cooperative, their goal is typically to minimize payouts. Insurance adjusters may attempt to settle quickly for less than the claim’s true value or use statements made by the victim to reduce liability.

Dealing With Settlement Offers

It’s common for insurers to make an early settlement offer before the full extent of the victim’s injuries and financial losses is known. Accepting this offer can prevent victims from receiving additional compensation later, even if new complications arise. Having an Oklahoma pedestrian accident attorney review all offers and communications ensures that victims receive fair treatment and the maximum recovery available.

Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Oklahoma City

Filing a claim involves several steps, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, filing a lawsuit. The process begins by collecting all relevant documentation, including medical records, police reports, witness statements, and proof of expenses. Once a formal claim is submitted, negotiations typically occur to reach a fair settlement.

Statute of Limitations in Oklahoma

Oklahoma law sets a strict deadline, known as the statute of limitations, for filing pedestrian accident claims. In most cases, victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can permanently bar the victim from seeking compensation. Consulting with an attorney early ensures all deadlines are met and that evidence is preserved before it’s lost.

How an Oklahoma Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Help You

After a pedestrian accident, victims often face a long road to recovery, physically, emotionally, and financially. Between medical bills, insurance claims, and uncertainty about legal rights, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. An experienced Oklahoma pedestrian accident attorney can guide you through this challenging time, protect your rights, and work to secure the compensation you deserve. From investigating the cause of the crash to negotiating with insurance companies and taking your case to court if necessary, having skilled legal representation can make a life-changing difference.

Investigating the Cause of the Accident

Determining who is at fault in a pedestrian accident requires careful investigation. Your attorney will gather evidence such as police reports, eyewitness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident scene photos to piece together exactly what happened. They may also work with reconstruction experts or consult with law enforcement to clarify the sequence of events. This detailed investigation helps identify negligent parties. It builds a strong foundation for your case.

Proving Negligence and Liability

Establishing negligence is a critical component of any pedestrian accident claim. To recover compensation, your attorney must prove that the driver or other responsible party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty through careless or reckless behavior, and directly caused your injuries. A knowledgeable Oklahoma pedestrian accident lawyer understands the nuances of state traffic laws, right-of-way regulations, and comparative negligence rules. They can present compelling evidence that demonstrates fault and counters any attempts by the defense or insurance companies to shift blame onto you.

Handling Insurance Companies on Your Behalf

Dealing with insurance adjusters can be one of the most frustrating aspects of recovery. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or deny valid claims. Your attorney acts as your advocate in all communications with insurers, ensuring you don’t feel pressured into accepting a settlement that undervalues your losses. An experienced Oklahoma pedestrian injury attorney will assess the true value of your claim. That includes current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. They can then negotiate aggressively to achieve a fair outcome.

Calculating Full and Fair Compensation

Determining the value of a pedestrian accident claim involves more than just adding up hospital bills. A skilled attorney will take into account long-term effects such as ongoing therapy, future surgeries, disability, and reduced earning potential. They’ll also factor in non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life. By consulting with medical professionals and financial experts, your lawyer can ensure every aspect of your injury and recovery is considered when pursuing compensation.

Contact an Experienced Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today 

Losing a loved one or suffering serious injuries in a pedestrian accident is one of the most painful experiences anyone can face. Beyond the physical harm, victims and families often struggle with emotional trauma, financial uncertainty, and the challenges of rebuilding their lives. The legal process can feel confusing and overwhelming in the midst of such grief. An experienced Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney can help you understand your rights. They can gather crucial evidence and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Acting quickly is important, as valuable evidence can fade and deadlines for filing claims are limited under Oklahoma law.

At Hawkins Felton, we’re committed to helping victims and families recover after tragic pedestrian accidents. Our team has extensive experience handling complex injury and wrongful death cases across Oklahoma. We understand what it takes to hold negligent drivers accountable. We provide compassionate, personalized legal support while aggressively pursuing the maximum recovery for your losses. Whether you’re coping with medical expenses, lost income, or the devastating loss of a loved one, our attorneys are here for you 24/7. Give us a call today at (918) 583-6007 or reach out through our online contact page. Let us help you fight for a swift, successful resolution.