Ohio is not a no-fault state. Unlike in states with no-fault laws, this means that a driver who is at fault for an accident will likely be financially responsible. They must use their insurance coverage to pay for damages other parties suffer in the collision.
Fault is a crucial factor in any case involving insurance companies and multiple parties. A Columbus personal injury lawyer from our firm who is familiar with Ohio insurance laws can investigate your case, determine who is at fault, and help you seek compensation from that driver’s insurance company.
Fault Versus No-Fault States
In a fault state like Ohio, the driver deemed liable for the accident uses their insurance coverage to pay for others’ damages. If you are injured in an auto accident in a no-fault state, you must use your own insurance policy to cover medical bills and other financial losses regardless of who caused the accident.
Ohio’s Comparative Negligence Laws
Several parties can share fault for a car accident in Ohio. State laws use percentages to break down the number of damages a party’s insurance is responsible for covering, per Ohio Revised Code Section 2315.33.
For example, you may be considered 30% responsible for the accident while the other driver is 70% at fault. If the insurance company settles the case for $50,000, you would receive 70% of that settlement, or $35,000. Keep in mind, if you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the crash, you can’t collect any damages from the other driver.
Because of laws like these, establishing an at-fault party is one of the most crucial components of any car accident that takes place in Ohio. If another party’s behaviors caused an accident in which you or a loved one suffered damages, you may be entitled to a settlement. When you hire an attorney from our firm to represent you, we can build your case to prove the other driver is responsible.
Recoverable Damages for Victims of Car Accidents in Ohio
When another party is at fault for your or a loved one’s car accident in Ohio, you could recover various damages through a claim or lawsuit against them. The amounts they are liable for covering will be assessed based on Ohio’s personal injury laws. In general, if you suffered injuries, property damage, and other forms of loss, you could receive financial recovery for the following damages:
- Current and ongoing medical expenses
- Emergency medical help
- Prescription medication
- Psychological pain and suffering
- Medical devices
- Therapeutic programs and intervention
- Damaged property
- Loss of earnings
Calculating Your Potential Financial Recovery
Assessing the damage after an accident involves several layers of investigation and analysis. Not only will insurance companies and other drivers play a role in this process, but legal teams will also enter the picture. When you have a lawyer from our firm working on your side, we will fight to uphold your rights as a victim. Your lawyer will collect evidence, identify a liable party, interpret the law, and negotiate on your behalf.
Though Ohio is not a no-fault state, dealing with personal injury and insurance laws can still be complex. Trying to navigate the numerous legal and financial concerns you are likely facing takes time and energy. With one of our lawyers working on your side, you can free yourself up to focus on getting back to your family and your recovery.
Seeking a Settlement After a Car Accident in Ohio
According to Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.10, if you suffer a personal injury in Ohio, you have the right to take legal action within 2 years of the incident. This may seem like a lot of time, but if you factor in the time it takes to collect evidence and build a strong case, two years can pass quickly.
The sooner our firm can get to work on your case, the more time we will have to build a strong claim. Our team can ensure your case is filed within the state’s statute of limitations so you do not lose your right to seek compensation.
What Our Legal Team Will Do for You
To seek a settlement after an accident, our attorneys will work to compile various pieces of evidence related to the incident. For example, we will gather photos, videos, witness reports, police reports, maintenance records, and anything else that can help to clarify the factors and cause of an accident. Our team will also:
- Negotiate with any other parties involved in the case on your behalf
- Fight for a fair settlement
- Take the case to trial if necessary and represent you in court
- Keep you updated on the progress of your case
Our lawyers will handle every aspect of your case from start to finish so you can focus on healing from the accident.
We Have Obtained Millions of Dollars in Settlements and Court Verdicts for Auto Accident Victims
Our firm has more than 30 years of experience advocating for accident victims in Ohio. We have obtained millions of dollars for our past clients injured in motor vehicle accidents. These are a few examples of our case results:
- $1,450,000 – for a car accident victim who suffered a leg and ankle fracture that led to a loss of income
- $1,000,000 – for a truck accident victim who suffered a traumatic brain injury
- $600,000 – for a car accident victim who suffered a hip fracture and other injuries
Of course, every case is different. Still, each member of our team will fight for your right to seek justice and secure the best possible outcome in your unique case.
We Will Be
There To Help
You All The Way
Contact the Fitch Law Firm LLC for Assistance with Your Case
At the Fitch Law Firm LLC, our Columbus personal injury lawyers are here to assist you and your loved ones after a car accident. We will collect evidence, communicate with other parties on your behalf, and fight hard to recover compensation for the damages you suffered.
We serve several areas of Ohio, including Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton, Springfield, and Marion. To learn more about how we can support your case, call our office today at (614) 545-3930.