AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS SERVING LEBANON AND ALL OF SOUTHWESTERN OHIO

In our modern world, auto accidents are simply part of life. Although they may be commonplace, however, that does not keep them from being dangerous and potentially life-altering events. When you or a loved one suffers an injury in an auto accident caused by another party, you may be left with not only mounting medical bills but also questions about where to turn to for help. By working with an experienced personal injury law firm, you can have confidence that your rights will be protected as you seek a favorable outcome in your case. 

At Diehl & Hubbell, LLC, we are dedicated to guiding individuals and families through the often-complicated legal landscape. From our office in Lebanon, we are proud to serve clients in Warren County, Clinton County, Highland County, Clermont County, Butler County, and throughout Southwestern Ohio. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your situation and learn more about your legal options. 

Liability for Auto Accidents in Ohio

Car accidents are handled differently from one state to another, so it is important to understand the details of how your state addresses liability, insurance, compensation, and more. Ohio is an “at-fault state,” which means the driver determined to be responsible for the accident can be held legally liable for any and all injuries and damage caused in the wreck. 

If you are involved in an accident, you are left with three options: 

1. File a claim with your own insurance provider to cover repairs and damage. 

2. File a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance to pursue compensation. 

3. File a lawsuit against the at-fault party in civil court. 

There can be pros and cons to each option, which is why it is important to discuss your situation with an attorney to receive the guidance you need. 

Ohio Insurance Requirements

In the state of Ohio, drivers are required to have proof of responsibility in an accident in one of three ways: 

• Purchasing liability auto insurance. 

• Posting collateral of equal or greater value. 

• Purchasing a bond. 

If a driver opts to purchase liability auto insurance, Ohio requires minimum coverage values of: 

• $25,000 for the injury or death of one person 

• $50,000 for coverage of all injuries or deaths in one accident 

• $25,000 for property damage  

These are only minimum requirements, and additional insurance or policies of greater value can be chosen as well. 

State Laws Regarding Personal Injury Claims

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident, you need to be familiar with how the state of Ohio handles personal injury claims, including the state’s “comparative fault” system and the statute of limitations on filing a claim. 

Comparative Fault 

Under comparative fault rules, fault for an accident can potentially be split among multiple parties, with each party bearing a certain percentage of the blame. In such a situation, the amount of compensation awarded to a party will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to have been 25% at fault for your accident, while the other driver was 75% at fault, you would only be eligible to receive 75% of the total amount awarded. In this example, if the court awards a total of $100,000 in compensation, you will be entitled to $75,000 of that amount. 

Statute of Limitations 

In Ohio, the statute of limitations on filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to take action within this allotted time frame, you will forfeit your opportunity to seek compensation. 

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

If your loved one lost their life in an auto accident caused by the negligence of another party, there may be grounds to file a wrongful death claim against them. Though such a claim cannot bring back your loved one, it can hold the responsible party accountable for the sorrow they have caused and result in financial compensation that can cover funeral expenses and other costs associated with your loved one’s death. 

Under Ohio law, only the deceased person’s “personal representative” designated by their estate is authorized to file a wrongful death claim. 

Trust an Experienced Law Firm

In the aftermath of an auto accident, you may be overwhelmed with uncertainty and questions about how to pursue compensation or where you can go for help. Fortunately, there is knowledgeable legal representation available to lead you in the right direction. With the experience and insight of a skilled legal team on your side, you can focus on your physical recovery while your attorney advocates on your behalf and works to give you an opportunity to seek the compensation you need.