A car accident can be expensive, no matter what state you live in. If you reside in Lexington, Ohio, there are some things you should be aware of in the event you are ever in a car accident. The first thing you should know is that Ohio is an “at-fault” state when it comes to vehicle collisions. In other words, if you sustain injuries in a car accident, the following options are available to you:
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- Filing a claim with your insurance carrier;
- Filing a claim with the other driver’s insurance carrier;
- Pursue legal action in a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver.
The state also imposes limits on the amount of damages you can collect after a car accident and they are as follows:
- $25,000 to compensate for injuries or the death of one person
- $50,000 to compensate for injuries or a death in a single car accident
- $25,000 to compensate for property damages in a collision
After a Lexington, Ohio car accident, there are different types of damages you may be eligible to collect. Compensatory damages are actual damages from the accident and will compensate you for any type of loss you may have due to the collision. Economic damages are those that refer to actual financial losses you may experience like medical charges, car repair charges, and your lost wages due to being unable to work. Non-economic damages refer to pain and suffering damages.
In some instances, a car accident victim can receive punitive damages if the other driver was reckless or intentionally caused the collision. Punitive damages serve as punishment an individual responsible for damages to prevent others from committing similar acts. If you or a loved one sustains injuries and property damages in a car accident, you should consult an attorney to protect your rights and help you collect any damages you are due.
When to File a Car Accident Report in Lexington, Ohio
The local police in Lexington, Ohio do not respond to every single car accident that takes place. Per state requirements, the police only need to come to an accident scene if:
- There are bodily injuries from the accident that need medical attention
- There is a death
- There is property damage over $1,000
Since most people are unable to estimate the cost of vehicle damages, it is always a good idea to call the local police after a car accident to be on the safe side. It is always better to call the police and not need them than to not call the police at all.
You should file a “crash report” with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) within six months of a car accident if the other driver does not have automotive insurance. The report will evaluate the other driver’s license or the vehicle owner for consideration of license suspension for failing to maintain liability automotive insurance.
Can I Collect Damages if I am Partially at Fault?
Ohio is a state that adheres to the “modified comparative negligence” rule for car accident claims. You may be eligible to receive compensation for your damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault for the accident. If you are more than 50% responsible for the collision, you will not receive compensation. So, if your case goes to hearing and you are 10% at fault, your damage award will reflect the amount of your fault. In other words, if the compensation award is $100,000, you will receive $90,000 after your 10% reduction.
After a Lexington, Ohio car accident, you should immediately contact an attorney to determine if you are eligible to file a claim, how you should file your claim, and how to proceed with your case. A lawyer will also inform you of your rights and how long you have to file a claim to request damages for your injuries and property damage. Even if you decide not to hire an attorney you should take the time to consult with one gain a full understanding of your rights.
What Can A Car Accident Attorney Do for Me in My Lexington, Ohio Case?
Hiring a lawyer after a car accident is an excellent way to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you are due for your damages. An attorney can answer all the questions you may have about how the car accident settlement process works and if you should pursue legal action against the other driver. When you have a lawyer working with you on your case, you can be confident in knowing that you have someone on your side that knows and understands how Ohio laws work and how to apply them to your car accident case.
Attorneys have a wide array of resources to investigate your accident and determine who was at fault. A lawyer knows how to read and interpret police reports, medical documentation and can help you navigate through the confusing process of filing a claim with an insurance carrier. Once you hire an attorney, they will negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company to get you the maximum settlement amount available. Let a lawyer work on your behalf to handle all the difficult details of working with insurance companies so you can focus on your recovery process.
Call the Ohio Car Accident Lawyers for Assistance Today
Being in a car accident can be an emotional roller coaster. You need an attorney on your side fighting for your rights and your compensation. We care about all of our clients and will take the time to listen to you and your needs. Our lawyers will work hard to make sure your case receives a favorable outcome. Let us fight the insurance company to get you compensation for your injuries so you can focus your time and energy on recovering from your injuries. Call our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. We cannot help you if you do not take the first step. Contact us today.
