Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on Ohio’s roads, with thousands of crashes occurring every year due to various factors. Whether it’s heavy traffic, distracted driving, or dangerous road conditions, Ohio drivers face many risks each time they get behind the wheel.
While no one ever anticipates being involved in a collision, knowing what steps to take afterward can make all the difference in protecting your health, financial well-being, and legal rights.
This guide will walk you through what to do immediately after a car accident in Ohio, how fault is determined in Ohio’s legal system, and why working with an experienced car accident attorney can be crucial to ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Ohio

Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help you protect yourself and your rights. Here are the most important things to do after a crash:
1. Ensure Your Safety and Check for Injuries
The first priority after a car accident is safety. If you’re able to, check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to request medical help. Even if you don’t feel injured at first, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible, as some injuries may not present symptoms right away, such as whiplash or concussions.
2. Move to a Safe Location
If the accident is minor and you’re able to move your vehicle, it’s best to pull over to a safe spot to avoid causing additional accidents. However, if your vehicle is severely damaged or someone is seriously injured, leave your car where it is and wait for emergency services to arrive.
3. Call the Police
In Ohio, it’s required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or over $1,000 in property damage. Having the police come to the scene ensures that an official accident report is filed, which can be invaluable when it comes to proving fault and dealing with insurance claims. Be sure to provide the police with all necessary information but avoid admitting fault or making assumptions about what happened—let the investigation reveal the facts.
4. Exchange Information

After ensuring everyone’s safety, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. You’ll need to collect their:
- Name
- Contact information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance information
Also, gather the names and contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident. Their statements can provide valuable support if you need to dispute fault later.
5. Document the Scene
If you’re able, take pictures of the accident scene, including damage to both vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This documentation can serve as critical evidence if you end up pursuing a legal claim or negotiating with insurance companies.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
After the accident, you’ll need to inform your insurance company as soon as possible. They will walk you through the claims process and explain what information they need. However, be careful not to provide a recorded statement or sign anything without first consulting with a lawyer, especially if you think the other driver was at fault.
How Fault Is Determined in Ohio

Ohio is an “at-fault” or tort state when it comes to car accidents, meaning the person responsible for causing the accident is liable for damages. This differs from “no-fault” states, where each driver typically files claims with their own insurance companies, regardless of fault.
In Ohio, proving fault is essential for recovering compensation. The police report, witness statements, and physical evidence from the crash can all play a role in determining who was responsible. However, Ohio also follows a legal doctrine called comparative negligence, which means you may still be eligible for compensation even if you were partially at fault—as long as your fault does not exceed 50%.
For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. If you were 50% or more responsible, you may not be able to recover compensation at all.
The Role of an Ohio Car Accident Lawyer
Car accidents can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial stress. In the aftermath, you may be dealing with medical bills, car repairs, lost wages, and insurance claims—all while trying to recover from your injuries. This is where an experienced Ohio car accident lawyer can help.
1. Investigating the Accident
A lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident to gather all necessary evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and expert opinions. This can help build a strong case to prove fault and support your claim for compensation.
2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, which can leave you with less compensation than you deserve. An attorney can handle negotiations on your behalf, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement to cover medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and pain and suffering.
3. Representing You in Court
If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, your attorney can represent you in court. They’ll present your case, advocate for your best interests, and fight to secure the compensation you’re entitled to.
4. Managing Legal Deadlines
Ohio’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years. Failing to file your claim within that time frame could result in losing your right to recover compensation. A car accident lawyer will ensure that all paperwork is filed correctly and within the legal deadlines.
Conclusion
Car accidents in Ohio can have lasting consequences, from costly medical bills to long-term injuries. Knowing what to do after a crash and working with a skilled attorney can help protect your legal rights and maximize your compensation. If you’ve been involved in an accident, don’t wait—contact 1Ohio today to discuss your options and get the support you need to move forward