Norman, OK, police are investigating the cause of a fatal car accident that occurred on August 4, 2023. The crash killed two and injured a toddler.
The collision happened midday on State Highway 9 close to 108th Avenue. The 72-year-old male driver of an eastbound vehicle drifted over the center dividing line and collided head-on with a westbound vehicle driven by a 26-year-old woman. Emergency responders pronounced the two drivers dead at the scene. The woman’s 3-year-old daughter was rushed to an area hospital with critical injuries. According to the Norman Police Department, this stretch of road has seen more than 700 collisions since 2019.
What To Do After a Minor Gets Hurt in a Car Accident?
A major accident can cause more harm to a child than an adult, as their bodies are still developing. That said, the steps to take after a minor sustains injuries in a car accident are much the same as the ones an adult should take after a crash:
- Call 911
- Move the cars out of traffic, if possible
- Exit the car if you can do so safely
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Get witness contact information
- Take photos of the scene and your injuries
- Seek medical attention immediately for both yourself and the child
- Alert your insurance provider of the accident per the terms of your policy
- Talk to an experienced car accident lawyer
Don’t let the minor talk to anyone except you, the police, and the EMS team. Their remarks after the crash may inadvertently give the other driver (and their lawyer and insurance company) reasons to deny your claim or blame you for the accident.
Common Injuries After a Serious Car Accident
Even with a car seat or booster seat, small children can suffer severe injuries in a serious car accident. Some of the most common include the following:
- A concussion or brain tissue damage
- A broken bone/fracture
- Severe cuts/lacerations
- A crushing injury, such as a smashed hand or foot
- Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
In addition to these physical injuries, many children involved in major car crashes also suffer psychological damage. The trauma of the accident can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder or a situational phobia about riding in a car, requiring specialized, child-focused therapy.
Compensation Available After a Car Accident in Oklahoma
The compensation your family is eligible to recover can pay for your physical, financial, and intangible losses after the crash. Some of these damages include:
- Medical care, including projected future needs
- Psychological therapy
- Lost wages if you had to take time off of work
- Pain and suffering, and emotional trauma
A car accident attorney can explain the options available for your specific situation.
Contact the Oklahoma Car Accident Lawyers at Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons
Were you or your child injured in a major car accident in Oklahoma? If someone else was to blame, they could owe you compensation for your suffering. Let our experienced team of car accident lawyers help you seek what you’re owed. Contact Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons today for a free consultation to learn about your legal options for recovery.
