At Tittle & Perlmuter, our Cleveland auto accident attorneys fight aggressively for justice. A motor vehicle collision can change your entire life in a matter of seconds. It is imperative that you are able to secure the maximum financial compensation, including for loss wage, medical bills, and pain and suffering. Were you or your loved one hurt in a crash? We are more than ready to help. Contact us at our Cleveland law office for a free consultation with a top Ohio auto accident lawyer.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Cleveland, OH
The aftermath of a motor vehicle collision is often stressful, chaotic, and even overwhelming. Too many people make seemingly simple errors that put their health, well-being, and even their legal rights in jeopardy. Knowing what to do can make a big difference. Here are four steps to take after a car crash in Cleveland:
- Stop Your Car, Report the Wreck: Ohio law is clear: all collisions that result in property damage or significant physical injuries should be reported to law enforcement. You need to stop your car, exchange information, and report the crash, either to the Cleveland Police Department or another state/local agency.Â
- See a Doctor Right Away if Hurt: Physical trauma sustained in a car crash—even if you believe it is relatively minor—should always be checked by a doctor. You may be more badly hurt than you know. Further, Ohio law requires injured victims to present medical records to bring a car accident injury claim.
- Document Your Collision: Ohio is a fault-based personal injury state. Your collision needs to be comprehensively documented. Be proactive. Try to take pictures, get witness contact details, obtain a copy of the police report, and write down your account of what happened. All of this information is evidence that could be very valuable in the claims process.
- Consult With a Cleveland Lawyer: You do not want to take on the insurance company alone. Insurance adjusters are not on your side. They want to pay out less in order to settle claims. Do not let them get away with it. Before you provide any official statement, be sure to consult with an experienced Cleveland car accident attorney.
An Overview of Ohio Car Crash Liability
Ohio follows a “fault” system for car crash liability—meaning the at-fault driver (or other at-fault party) is responsible for damages resulting from the accident. To recover compensation through a fault-based claim, an injured victim in Cleveland must prove that the defendant’s negligence contributed to their crash. Negligence is the failure to take due care. Examples include:
- Speeding;
- Running red lights;
- Distracted driving;
- Drunk driving; and
- Unsafe trucking practices.
In Ohio, modified comparative negligence rules apply to car accident injury cases (Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2315.33). The law allows injured victims to recover even if they are partially at fault for their own crash—so long as their fault does not exceed 50 percent. However, when partial fault is assigned, the victim’s recovery will be reduced proportionally to their degree of blame. If you are 25 percent at fault for a collision in Cleveland, you will be responsible for 25 percent of your damages.
Know the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Injury Claim
Hurt in a car crash in Cleveland? You have a limited amount of time to initiate your claim? Under Ohio law (Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2305.10), there is a two-year statute of limitations for car accident injury lawsuits. In other words, most cases need to be filed within two years of the date of the crash.
There are only limited circumstances in which the statute of limitations can be extended. The sooner you take action after a crash, the better: Speak to a Cleveland attorney right away.
Fighting for Full and Fair Compensation for Injured Victims
In Ohio, motor vehicle accident victims have the right to seek compensation for economic damages and non-economic losses. Unfortunately, car accident victims often struggle to get the full and fair financial compensation that they deserve from insurance companies. Insurers fight hard to pay out less. Our Cleveland auto accident attorneys are committed to helping clients secure the maximum compensation, including for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other health costs;
- Loss of wages;
- Diminished earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Why Trust the Ohio Car Accident Lawyers at Tittle & Perlmuter
Motor vehicle accident injury claims are complicated. It is normal to be filled with questions after a bad accident. You do not have to figure out the system alone. At Tittle & Perlmuter, our client testimonials and record of case results say it best. We fight for justice. Along with other things, our Cleveland car accident attorneys are prepared to:
- Conduct a free, comprehensive evaluation of your personal injury case;
- Investigate your Cleveland car crash—securing the relevant evidence;
- Guide you through the insurance claims process, including settlement; and
- Fight for justice and the maximum financial compensation.
Car Accident Claims in Cleveland: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When Should I Speak to a Cleveland Car Accident Lawyer?
Before you give any statement to an insurance adjuster. Indeed, you should speak to a Cleveland car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident—especially if you have suffered a serious injury in the crash. Your attorney will protect your rights and interests.
What is the Most Common Type of Car Accident?
The most common type of car accident in Cleveland is the rear-end collision. In fact, nearly half of all multi-vehicle crashes in Northeast Ohio are rear-end collisions. These accidents are often caused by drivers following too closely or because drivers are distracted. Serious injuries can occur.
How Do I Determine the Value of My Case?
You should consult with a Cleveland car accident attorney. The value of your claim is determined by many individual factors, including liability and damages. Do not trust that an initial offer from an insurance company is a full and fair valuation of your case. They try to settle claims for less. A Cleveland car accident lawyer can help you fight for the maximum compensation.
What is a Demand Letter in a Car Accident Claim?
A demand letter is a formal request sent to the at-fault party’s insurance company. Among other things, the letter explains the defendant’s liability, outlines your damages, and clarifies the compensation that you are seeking. It should be drafted by a Cleveland car crash attorney.
Contact Our Cleveland Auto Accident Attorney Today
At Tittle & Perlmuter, our Cleveland car accident lawyers fight aggressively for injured victims. With the experience to take on all types of claims, we hold insurance companies accountable. Call us now or contact us online for a no cost, no obligation case review. From our Cleveland law office, we handle motor vehicle accident claims throughout Northeast Ohio.
