What To Do After A Car Accident In Ohio: Step-by-step Guide

The crunch of metal and smell of burning rubber that accompanies a car accident is terrifying. Standing in the aftermath, you likely will feel overwhelmed, panicked, and unsure of what actions need to be taken. Whether your accident has taken place along Parsons Avenue in Columbus or West Miller Avenue in Akron, knowing what to do after a car accident in Ohio is crucial, and the personal injury attorneys at Rumizen Weisman Attorneys can help.

What to Do Following a Car Accident in Ohio

In 2023, Ohio experienced 1,242 deaths due to car accidents across the state. When these accidents happen, and you find that you are physically capable of doing so, there are certain actions that should be taken. Of course, if you are severely injured, it is better that you wait for emergency medical services to arrive. You do not want to aggravate your injuries. However, if you are physically able to do so, the following steps should be taken:

• Prioritize your safety. The first thing you need to do is check yourself and your passengers over for injuries. If anyone seems to be suffering from a neck, back, spine, or head injury, do not try to move them. If your vehicle is still drivable, you should move it out of the way of oncoming traffic and turn your hazard lights on. Additionally, if you smell gas, you need to move away from the vehicle.
• Call 911. Even in cases where the accident and your injuries seem minor, you still should call for the police and report the accident. In certain cases, refraining from this action can actually hurt your case. The police can create an official report of the incident, which can help determine fault in the future and provide critical evidence for a claim.
• Collect evidence. If possible, use your phone to gather evidence, including photos and videos of the incident scene, your injuries, injuries of any passengers inside your vehicle, license plate numbers, and roadway conditions. You should also get the name, address, phone number, insurance information, and driver’s license number of the at-fault driver.
• Seek medical attention. After the accident, it is important that you seek an appointment with your general care physician or at a local ER. Certain injuries, like internal bleeding, concussions, or whiplash, have a way of not showing symptoms right away, and waiting to get reviewed by your doctor can actually harm your health and your case.
• Notify your insurance. It is important that you make your insurance company aware of the incident, but be careful. You should only provide them with the most basic details, including the time, location, and vehicles involved in the accident. Do not admit to or discuss fault without first seeking legal advice from an attorney.
• Contact an attorney. Finally, you need to speak with a personal injury lawyer who can help you seek the full and fair amount of compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Ohio Car Accidents

In Ohio, many factors can lead to a car accident. Understanding what caused the accident to take place will have a direct impact on how much compensation you can recover and what party, or parties, can be held liable. Common causes of a car accident in Ohio include:

• Speeding, which resulted in over 11,700 traffic fatalities in 2023
• Distracted driving, such as texting while driving or interacting with passengers
• Drunk or drugged driving
• Drowsy or fatigued driving
• Tailgating or other forms of traffic violations
• Poor roadway conditions, such as loose gravel or potholes
• Weather conditions, like rain, snow, or sleet
• Vehicle defects or maintenance failures

FAQs

What Kind of Damages Can I Recover in a Car Accident?

In a car accident, there are several forms of damages you may be able to pursue, depending on how severe your injuries are, the cause behind the accident, and whether you suffered any forms of personal property damage. You may be able to seek compensation for all related medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning ability, emotional suffering and physical pain, damages for wrongful death, loss of consortium, and, rarely, punitive damages.

What Are Common Injuries in a Car Accident in Ohio?

Six thousand five hundred people are injured in car accidents across the United States every day. In Ohio, common injuries resulting from these accidents include spinal cord injuries, which can result in partial or complete paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones and fractures, internal bleeding or damage to internal organs and nerves, whiplash and other neck injuries, shoulder injuries, severe burns, cuts, bruises, and lacerations, and death.

What Should I Avoid Doing After an Accident?

Just like there are several actions you should take following an accident, there are also certain actions that you should avoid making. One of the most important things to remember is that, under no circumstances, should you discuss fault. Even uttering a seemingly innocent “I’m sorry” could be used against you. You should also refrain from posting anything to social media or making recorded statements to insurance adjusters.

What if the Liable Party Flees the Scene of the Incident?

In Ohio, fleeing the scene of an accident is actually illegal, and the at-fault party can face criminal charges in addition to being held liable for the damages you sustain. In these cases, it is important to record as much as you can remember about the accident, including the at-fault party’s car make, model, and license plate number. It is also important to note that even if the at-fault party is never found, you are still entitled to compensation.

Hire a Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love suffered in a car accident anywhere in Ohio, it is crucial that you hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. At Rumizen Weisman Attorneys, we understand what a difficult and challenging time this can prove to be, and want to be there, standing by your side, every step of the way.

To learn more about our legal services and representation, contact our offices today and set up an initial consultation with our personal injury team.