Avoiding Car Accidents at Oklahoma Landmarks

When visiting popular Oklahoma landmarks, increased traffic levels can heighten the risk of car accidents. Knowing how to travel safely during your outdoor adventures can reduce the likelihood of suffering injuries during your journey. However, if you are involved in a crash due to another party’s negligence, an experienced car accident lawyer at Cain Law can help. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can assist you.

General Safe Driving Tips

Whether you are driving in a heavily populated urban area, a sparse rural landscape, or one of Oklahoma’s landmarks, the following safety tips can keep yourself, your passengers, and other road users free from harm during your road trip:

• Wear a Seatbelt – Seatbelts are legally required in Oklahoma because they save lives. Ensure you and your passengers are buckled up and that small children are secured in car seats before setting out.
• Avoid Distractions – Driver distraction is one of the most common causes of accidents. Refrain from using your cell phone, adjusting your GPS device, or eating food when your attention should be on the road.
• Drive the Speed Limit – Speed limits are in place to protect all road users. Observe the speed limit at all times, and reduce your speed to adjust to any road or weather conditions.
• Take Breaks When Tired – Driving while drowsy has similar effects as driving while intoxicated. Give yourself regular breaks to rest your body and your brain. Pull over in a safe place if you feel sleepy.
• Check the Weather Before Venturing Out – Driving during inclement weather can be extremely dangerous. Delay any journeys if the forecast calls for heavy rains, thunderstorms, tornados, snow, or ice.

Driving Tips Around Oklahoma Landmarks

Oklahoma has numerous popular sites throughout the state. Be sure to adhere to safe driving practices wherever you may be headed. Here are some safe driving tips when traversing some of Oklahoma’s most famous landmarks:

Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum

The memorial and museum commemorating the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Oklahoma City Murrah Federal Building is a popular attraction for tourists from around the world. Avoid driving around the museum during peak hours, especially on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Furthermore, I-235 can be particularly congested during rush hour, so you may wish to seek an alternative route.

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

One of the primary areas of concern in the beautiful Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is the possibility of animals darting into the road. Pay particularly close attention at animal crossings, as many drivers end up hurting both themselves and wildlife when they attempt to veer out of the way at the last second.

The Wichita Mountains are also susceptible to sudden thunderstorms, flash floods, and tornadoes. Pay close attention to the forecast and seek suitable protection if necessary to avoid weather-related accidents.

Tulsa’s Gathering Place

Situated on the banks of the Arkansas River, the Gathering Place in Tulsa is a popular site for pedestrians. As such, it is essential to stay on the lookout for people on foot, as they may not always be dressed in a way that makes them visible. Additionally, Riverside Drive can often be congested, so you may wish to park a few blocks away to be safe.

Turner Falls Park

Home to Dr. Collings’ Rock Castle and a 77-foot waterfall, Turner Falls Park is a popular outdoor attraction in Davis. The park is particularly beautiful in the fall, but this can also increase traffic around the area. If possible, plan your visit to avoid school vacation times.

Route 66 Attractions

When taking a scenic drive along the most famous highway in America, defensive driving is particularly important. You may be sharing the road with drivers from around the country and the world who might not be as familiar with Oklahoma traffic customs. Be especially careful as you enter and leave big cities, such as Oklahoma City and Tulsa, and as you approach Route 66’s many roadside attractions.

What to Do After a Car Accident

If you are involved in a car accident while visiting a landmark in Oklahoma, it is crucial to remain calm and take the following steps immediately following the crash:

• Move to a Safe Area – If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a safe location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Call Emergency Services – If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance. If there are no injuries, report the accident to the police so an officer can come to the scene and prepare a police report.
• Render Aid – If it’s safe to do so, provide first aid to anyone who is injured until emergency responders arrive.
• Exchange Information – Collect the name, contact information, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance details from the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Take photos of the other driver’s license, insurance verification, and license plate.
• Take Photos or Videos – Use your smartphone to take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the positions of the vehicles, damage, skid marks, other physical evidence, and any visible injuries.
• Obtain Witness Information – If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information.

After ensuring everyone’s safety and properly documenting the accident scene, contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Seeking legal representation early in the process can significantly increase your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Contact an Oklahoma Car Accident Attorney for Help

If you have suffered injuries in a car accident in Oklahoma, a car accident attorney can improve your chances of a successful compensation claim by:

• Investigating the accident
• Identifying all at-fault parties
• Calculating the total value of your losses
• Negotiating with the insurance company
• Taking the at-fault party to court if necessary

The knowledgeable legal team at the Cain Law has extensive experience handling Oklahoma accident claims involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. We’ve successfully recovered more than $80 million for our clients. Let us fight for what you deserve, too. Contact us today for a free case review.