Teens’ Joyriding Adventure Ends in Serious Injuries for Another Driver in Tulsa, OK

Fox-23 News reports that on Saturday afternoon, May 17, 2025, in a Tulsa suburb, a black Ford Expedition packed with teenagers sped through the streets. None of them had a driver’s license. The driver was just 14 or 15 years old. This wasn’t just a harmless joyride — it was illegal, dangerous, and ultimately, devastating.

According to Tulsa Police, Mingo Valley Division Patrol Supervisor Sergeant J.P. Ward, the teen driver said they were fleeing gunfire — allegedly from a road rage incident that began after the Expedition driver cut someone off in traffic. But the crash that followed wasn’t just a product of panic. It was the result of reckless, unlawful behavior: teens with no legal authority to drive, fleeing a scene they helped provoke, running from responsibility.

The crash occurred at the intersection of South 129th East Avenue and East 21st Street. These four-lane roads have center dividers at their intersection with left-turning lanes, all controlled by stoplights. The teen behind the wheel blew through the intersection and slammed into a silver sedan. That driver, completely uninvolved in the prior confrontation, suffered serious injuries and was rushed to the hospital, likely Ascension St. John Broken Arrow Hospital.

Teen Fleeing Gunfire — or Avoiding Accountability?

After the crash, two of the passengers fled the scene — leaving the vehicle, the injured victims, and any sense of accountability behind. Police later confirmed that all occupants in the Expedition were under the age of 15.

When teenagers not only cause a violent crash but then run away from the consequences, it highlights more than just a lack of maturity. It raises serious concerns about legal responsibility, community safety, and the ripple effect of juvenile recklessness.

• Who owned the vehicle?
• Why was a teenager driving it?
• Did the parents or guardian know?
• Could this have been prevented?

These are the questions that injured victims — and their families — deserve answers to.

The Real Victims Deserve Justice

While headlines focus on the chaos, let’s not forget the person whose life was upended: the driver of the silver car. They were simply trying to cross an intersection when their vehicle was struck by a speeding SUV filled with teens fleeing a dangerous scene they helped escalate.

That driver suffered serious injuries and now faces weeks, months, or even years of recovery. Medical bills, lost work, pain, and emotional trauma are just the beginning. For the victim’s family, this crash has created fear, frustration, and financial uncertainty.

This wasn’t just “kids being kids.” It was illegal, and it has consequences — not only for those involved but for the innocent people left to suffer the fallout.

 

Who’s Legally Responsible for a Crash Like This?

In Oklahoma, the law provides clear paths for victims injured by underage drivers. When minors cause harm:

• Their parents or legal guardians may be held financially accountable.
• The owner of the vehicle may be liable under “negligent entrustment” laws if they knowingly allowed an unlicensed teen to drive.
• If the car was taken without permission, insurance coverage disputes may arise — but that doesn’t mean the victim is left without options.

In some cases, more than one party may share liability, including guardians, vehicle owners, and even third parties who contributed to the dangerous conditions.

An experienced car accident attorney can untangle these facts, identify all sources of recovery, and hold every responsible party accountable. Hawkins Felton Injury Attorneys are exactly the advocates to contact in a situation like this.

The Dangers of Underage Joyriding

Underage drivers lack the experience and judgment necessary to navigate complex traffic situations safely. In this case, the teenagers were not only driving illegally but were also fleeing a potentially dangerous situation involving gunfire. Their actions led to a crash that caused serious injuries to an innocent driver.

Such incidents highlight the severe consequences of allowing underage individuals to operate vehicles, especially when they end up in high-stress situations.

Legal Implications for Victims

Victims of accidents caused by underage drivers have the right to seek compensation for their injuries. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, pursuing a claim can be complex, especially when the at-fault driver is a minor.

In Oklahoma, parents or guardians can be held financially responsible for the actions of their minor children under certain circumstances. Additionally, if the vehicle was owned by someone else, that owner may also bear some liability.

The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of such an accident requires legal expertise. An experienced personal injury attorney can:

• Investigate the Incident: Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the events leading up to the crash.
• Identify All Liable Parties: Determine who is legally responsible, which may include the underage driver, their parents, the vehicle owner, or others.
• Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Handle communications with insurers to ensure fair compensation for the victim.
• Represent in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, take the case to trial to advocate for the victim’s rights.

Having skilled legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of a case, ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Legal Options for Victims and Families

Victims of accidents involving underage drivers have several legal avenues to explore:

• Personal Injury Claims: Seek compensation for injuries sustained in the accident.
• Wrongful Death Claims: If the accident resulted in a fatality, the family may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.
• Negligent Entrustment: If the vehicle owner knowingly allowed a minor to drive, they may be held liable under negligent entrustment laws.
• Parental Liability: In some cases, parents can be held financially responsible for their child’s actions.

Complex Auto Accident Injury Claims and Why Hiring a Tulsa, OK, Car Accident Lawyer May Be Necessary

Accidents involving underage drivers introduce unique complexities. While the minor driver may be primarily at fault, other parties—such as parents, guardians, or vehicle owners—may also bear responsibility. Determining liability requires thorough investigation and understanding of Oklahoma’s laws regarding parental responsibility and negligent entrustment.

An experienced Tulsa car accident lawyer can navigate these complexities, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable and that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Common Injuries Found in Multi-Vehicle Crashes That Are Life-Changing For the Victim

Multi-vehicle collisions are some of the most violent and unpredictable accidents on the road. When a large SUV, truck, or van crashes into a smaller passenger car—especially at high speeds—the consequences can be catastrophic.

The human body isn’t built to absorb that kind of trauma. Even with seatbelts and airbags, victims inside smaller vehicles often suffer the worst. And those injuries can change not only the victim’s life, but also the lives of their families and friends in ways that are immediate—and permanent.

Here are some of the most common and devastating injuries we see in these types of crashes:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

A violent collision can cause the brain to slam against the inside of the skull, leading to a traumatic brain injury. This might be a mild concussion, but in many cases, it results in long-term cognitive damage. Victims may lose the ability to focus, communicate clearly, or perform everyday tasks. Severe TBIs can leave a person in a coma or cause permanent brain damage.

Family members often become caregivers overnight. Parents, spouses, and children may have to quit their jobs to provide round-the-clock assistance. This creates emotional strain, financial instability, and changes the dynamic of relationships forever.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

When a large vehicle strikes a smaller car, the occupants may be crushed or violently thrown, damaging the spinal cord. These injuries are often permanent. Victims may lose the ability to walk, work, or even breathe on their own. In some cases, they face total paralysis.

Spinal cord injury victims require extensive medical treatment—surgery, physical therapy, mobility devices, and in-home care. Their homes may need modifications such as ramps, lifts, and special beds. The emotional impact on both the victim and their loved ones is devastating.

Fractures and Crushed Limbs

Bones aren’t designed to withstand the crushing forces of a multi-vehicle crash. Victims frequently suffer multiple fractures. Legs, arms, ribs, and facial bones can all break under pressure. In some cases, limbs are so badly damaged they must be amputated.

These injuries are more than just painful—they’re disabling. Many victims are unable to return to their old jobs or enjoy activities they once loved. Surgeries, implants, and long-term rehab become part of daily life.

Internal Injuries and Organ Damage

In high-impact crashes, internal bleeding or damage to organs like the liver, spleen, lungs, or kidneys may not be immediately visible. But these hidden injuries are deadly if left untreated. Emergency surgery is often required, and even then, the recovery is long and uncertain.

Victims may face lifelong dietary restrictions, chronic pain, or the need for ongoing medications and follow-up care. The physical burden is intense—and the emotional toll adds up.

Severe Burns and Disfigurement

If a vehicle catches fire or the crash involves spilled fuel, burns can occur within seconds. These are some of the most painful and traumatizing injuries a person can experience. Survivors may endure multiple skin graft surgeries, nerve damage, and visible scars.

Disfigurement changes how others treat the victim. It can lead to deep psychological trauma, including depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Relationships often suffer. Even friends and extended family can struggle to cope with the visible aftermath.

Psychological and Emotional Trauma

Physical wounds often heal. Emotional ones can last much longer. Survivors of violent crashes—especially those caused by someone else’s recklessness—may experience:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Sleep disturbances and nightmares
• Severe anxiety around driving or riding in cars
• Survivor’s guilt, especially when others are killed or more seriously injured

Children and teens involved in these crashes may carry the emotional trauma into adulthood. Marriages are strained. Friendships are tested. Entire support networks are affected by the aftermath of one single, preventable crash.

Why This Matters

When a large SUV full of teenagers smashes into an unsuspecting driver at an intersection, the damage isn’t just physical—it’s personal. Victims and families are left to pick up the pieces, often without knowing where to start.

The financial cost alone is overwhelming: hospital stays, surgery, therapy, medication, missed work, and ongoing care. Add to that the emotional and psychological weight, and the full picture becomes clear: the consequences of a crash like this ripple through entire lives.

That’s why our legal system allows injured victims to pursue financial compensation—and why having a skilled car accident attorney is so important.

At Hawkins | Felton Injury Attorneys, we don’t just understand the law. We understand what you’re going through. We fight to make sure insurance companies don’t minimize your pain—or your rights.

What To Do After a Serious Accident

A serious auto accident leaves more than just physical damage—it disrupts lives, routines, and futures. If you were injured, witnessed the crash, or are helping a loved one who’s now incapacitated, the steps you take next will shape what comes after.

If You’re the Injured Victim

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you think you’re okay, get checked out by a doctor immediately. Injuries like internal bleeding, concussions, or spinal damage don’t always show symptoms right away but can become life-threatening if left untreated.

Call the Police

An official police report serves as a vital record of what happened. It documents the facts, collects witness statements, and identifies those involved—including anyone who fled the scene.

Document the Scene

If it’s safe and you’re physically able, take photos of your vehicle, the other vehicles, skid marks, broken glass, and road conditions. Visual evidence can be critical in proving fault and supporting your injury claim.

Collect Contact Information

Exchange names, phone numbers, insurance details, and driver’s license info with everyone involved. If there are bystanders or witnesses, ask for their contact details too—they could help confirm the facts later.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Even if you feel emotional or shaken, avoid saying anything like “I’m sorry” or guessing about what happened. These comments can be taken out of context and used by insurers to limit or deny your claim.

Contact a Tulsa Car Accident Lawyer

Reaching out to a skilled car accident attorney—to Hawkins | Felton—as soon as possible gives you an advantage. Your lawyer can secure evidence, manage communication with insurers, and make sure you aren’t taken advantage of during this vulnerable time.

If You’re a Witness or Another Driver Affected by the Crash

Stay at the Scene

Even if you weren’t injured, remain at the accident site until police arrive. Your presence and statement can help clarify the timeline of events and support the injured person’s case.

Share What You Saw

Give law enforcement a clear, honest statement about what happened. Details like who ran the red light or which driver was speeding can have a big impact on how liability is assigned.

Check for Dash Cams

If you have a dash cam in your vehicle, save and protect the footage immediately. Even if you didn’t directly witness the impact, video can capture moments before or after the crash that clarify what happened.

Exchange Information with Other Witnesses

If you’re not the only person who saw the crash, speak to other witnesses and exchange contact details. Your attorney may need to follow up later to collect supporting statements.

If Your Loved One Was Seriously Injured or Incapacitated

Become Their Advocate

When someone you love is unable to make decisions due to traumatic injuries, you may need to step in. This includes overseeing their medical care, communicating with insurance adjusters, and helping select legal counsel.

Secure and Preserve Medical Records

Keep a detailed log of hospital visits, doctor’s notes, prescribed medications, and long-term treatment plans. These records help paint a full picture of the injury’s impact on your loved one’s life.

Request the Police Report

File a request for the accident report as soon as it’s available. This official record is often necessary for filing insurance claims or building a lawsuit.

Speak With a Personal Injury Lawyer About Next Steps

Your family has the right to pursue legal action if your loved one was harmed by someone else’s negligence. A lawyer can help you seek compensation for medical care, loss of income, emotional distress, and future needs like home modifications or in-home assistance.

 

When the At-Fault Driver Flees or Avoids Responsibility

Tell the Police Everything You Know

If someone fled the crash scene, give police as much detail as possible—vehicle description, license plate, direction of travel, and anything they said. This can help law enforcement track them down.

Look for Surveillance Footage

Nearby businesses or homes may have security cameras that captured the crash or fleeing driver. Your attorney can act quickly to secure this footage before it’s overwritten.

Pursue All Avenues of Liability

Even if the at-fault driver is a minor or left the scene, other parties may still be held responsible. That includes parents or guardians, vehicle owners, or even the insurance policy tied to the car.

Hire Legal Representation to Preserve Your Rights

The legal process moves fast. Evidence can disappear, memories fade, and insurance companies start strategizing early. A personal injury attorney will step in, manage deadlines, and fight to ensure you’re treated fairly from day one.

If you or a loved one was hurt in an accident—especially one caused by underage or unlicensed drivers—you don’t have to face this alone. At Hawkins | Felton Injury Attorneys, we’re here to take that weight off your shoulders and get to work on your case. We’ll handle the legal side so you can focus on healing. Call Hawkins | Felton now at 918-731-2428 for a free consultation or visit hawkins-lawfirm.com. We’re available 24/7 and we charge no fees unless you win.

Aggressive Motor Vehicle Accident Representation – Learn More About Personal Injury Attorneys in Tulsa, OK

At Hawkins | Felton Injury Attorneys, we understand the challenges victims face after an accident. Our team is committed to providing aggressive representation, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Big Insurance Companies Have Their Own Lawyers

Insurance companies often have legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts. They may employ tactics to delay or deny claims. Having your own legal representation levels the playing field, ensuring that your interests are protected and that you receive fair compensation.

Your Own Policy May Have Coverage

Even if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own auto insurance policy may provide coverage through:

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: This can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Medical Payments (MedPay): This can help pay for medical expenses regardless of fault.

An experienced attorney can review your policy and help you access these benefits.

Fighting For Your Financial Rights After An Accident

Accidents can result in significant financial burdens due to medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. You have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. Our goal is to secure every dollar you’re entitled to under Oklahoma law.

What If My Car Accident Claim Is Denied?

Insurance claim denials are common, especially when the insurer believes you may give up. They may argue:

• You were at fault
• The road was safe
• There’s insufficient evidence
• Injuries were pre-existing

Don’t accept the first “no.” It’s often a tactic to discourage you.

A Skilled Tulsa Car Accident Lawyer May Be Able to Overturn a Denial

Our team has successfully overturned numerous denied claims by:

• Gathering Additional Evidence: Identifying and presenting new information that supports your claim.
• Reevaluating Liability: Demonstrating that the insurer’s assessment of fault was incorrect.
• Negotiating with Insurers: Engaging in discussions to reach a fair settlement.
• Litigating When Necessary: Taking the case to court to ensure justice is served.

Award-Winning Tulsa, OK, Personal Injury Lawyers – Call Hawkins | Felton Injury Attorneys After a Crash

At Hawkins | Felton Injury Attorneys, we bring more than just experience to the table. We bring compassion, strategy, and a relentless commitment to justice. Our firm has earned accolades across Oklahoma for the results we achieve and the care we provide to every client.

When you’re recovering from a devastating crash — especially one caused by reckless underage driving — the last thing you should worry about is legal red tape. That’s why we take on the full burden of the legal process, from start to finish.

We don’t treat you like a file. We treat you like family.

• You’ll get your calls returned.
• You’ll always know what’s happening with your case.
• You’ll feel heard, respected, and protected.

Our team knows what it means to lose control of your life in a moment. We’re here to help you take it back.

Expediting the Legal Settlement

We understand that after an accident, every day without resolution adds to your financial and emotional strain. That’s why we act swiftly and strategically to expedite your settlement and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Insurance Companies’ Delay Tactics

Insurance companies, aiming to protect their profits, often employ various strategies to delay or reduce payouts:

Lowball Initial Offers

Insurers may present an early settlement offer significantly below the actual value of your claim, hoping you’ll accept it out of urgency or lack of knowledge.

Requesting Excessive Documentation

By repeatedly asking for additional documents or information, insurers can create unnecessary delays, frustrating claimants into accepting lower settlements.

Changing Claims Adjusters

Frequently assigning different adjusters to your case can disrupt the claims process, causing confusion and delays.

Disputing Liability

Insurers may argue that you were partially or fully at fault for the accident, even when evidence suggests otherwise, to reduce their payout obligations.

Offering Quick Settlements

Presenting a fast settlement offer can pressure you into accepting less than what you deserve, especially when you’re in immediate need of funds.

Delaying Communication

Failing to respond promptly to your inquiries or requests can prolong the settlement process, causing unnecessary stress and uncertainty.

Our Commitment to Your Case

At Hawkins | Felton Injury Attorneys, we are dedicated to countering these tactics and advocating for your rights:

Immediate Investigation

We begin by thoroughly investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and identifying all liable parties to build a strong case from the outset.

Proactive Communication

Our team maintains consistent and clear communication with all parties involved, ensuring that your case progresses without unnecessary delays.

Skilled Negotiation

We leverage our experience and knowledge to negotiate effectively with insurance companies, aiming for a fair settlement that reflects the true value of your claim.

Litigation Readiness

If insurers refuse to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial, demonstrating our commitment to securing the compensation you deserve.

Client-Centric Approach

We prioritize your needs, providing personalized attention and support throughout the legal process, ensuring you are informed and confident every step of the way.

Tens of Millions Won Shows We KNOW How to Win

You need a firm that’s done this before — and won big.

We’ve recovered tens of millions of dollars for victims and families just like yours. Our team has:

✔️ Won large verdicts and settlements in auto accident and wrongful death cases
✔️ Held negligent drivers, parents, and vehicle owners legally accountable
✔️ Sued and won against municipalities and commercial insurers

We’re known for results — and respected because we get them.

Bilingual Accident Injury Law Firm

Everyone deserves to understand their rights, no matter what language they speak. That’s why we proudly serve both English- and Spanish-speaking clients. Se habla español. You’ll work with someone who understands your culture, your needs, and your goals.

Open 24 Hours a Day – 7 Days a Week

Accidents don’t keep office hours. Neither do we.

• Reach us any time — day or night.
• Call us right after the crash or when the hospital bills start arriving.
• We’re here when you need us most.

Because justice doesn’t take weekends off.

No Fees Until You Win Your Case

When we say we’re here for you, we mean it. You never pay us out of pocket.

• No upfront fees
• No hourly billing
• No charges unless we win

We work on a contingency fee basis — which means our payment is tied to your success. If we don’t win, you don’t pay.

That’s our promise to you.

Call a Motor Vehicle Accident Injury Lawyer in the Tulsa Area Now

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured because an underage driver—with no license, no experience, and no legal authority to be behind the wheel—caused a preventable crash, now is the time to act. Accidents like these aren’t just tragic—they’re legally complex. And the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to secure critical evidence, interview witnesses, and build the strongest case possible.

This isn’t just about paperwork or insurance. It’s about standing up for what’s right when someone else’s reckless choices turn your life upside down. It’s about medical bills you didn’t ask for, work you can’t return to, and a future that feels uncertain. You shouldn’t have to face that alone.

At Hawkins | Felton Injury Attorneys, we don’t just process claims—we fight for real people. People like you. We know the tactics insurers use to avoid paying full value, and we know how to shut them down. We take every case seriously, because we know what’s at stake: your health, your stability, and your peace of mind.

From day one, we take the burden off your shoulders. We investigate the crash, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for every dollar you deserve. And we don’t get paid unless you do.

Let us help. Call us now at 918-731-2428 or visit us anytime online at https://hawkins-lawfirm.com.

Justice starts with a conversation. We’re here to have it—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Let’s get your life back on track.