Personal Injury

Navigating Car Accident Law in Ohio

Car accidents can be distressing and result in significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Ohio, understanding the state’s car accident laws can help you protect your rights and seek appropriate compensation. Here’s an overview of car accident law in Ohio:

1. Fault-Based System:

Ohio follows a fault-based system for car accidents, which means the party at fault for causing the accident is responsible for covering the damages. If you are injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver and their insurance company.

2. Statute of Limitations:

Like all personal injury cases, car accident claims in Ohio have a statute of limitations, which is the timeframe within which you must file a lawsuit. In Ohio, the statute of limitations for most car accident cases is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file a lawsuit within this timeframe may result in losing your right to seek compensation through the court system.

3. Comparative Negligence Rule:

Ohio applies a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially at fault for the car accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. As long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and awarded $10,000, your compensation will be reduced to $8,000.

4. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM):

While carrying car insurance is required, some drivers may still be uninsured or underinsured. To protect yourself in such situations, it is wise to have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as part of your own car insurance policy. This coverage can help you recover damages if you are in an accident with a driver who lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage.

Conclusion: Seeking Legal Assistance

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Ohio, it’s crucial to protect your rights and seek appropriate compensation. Consider consulting an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary. An attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain, and suffering resulting from the accident.