Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents:
- Distracted Driving – This includes activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. This may lead to dangerous lane changes, running a motorcyclist off the road, or rear-ending another vehicle. Texting while driving is a traffic offense under Ohio law.
- Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol, drugs, or medications can impair a driver's judgment, coordination, and reaction times.
- Reckless Driving – Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, or weaving in and out of traffic can lead to accidents.
- Traffic Violations – Drivers of all types of vehicles must follow traffic laws, including speed limits, lane changing procedures, yield rules, and more. Driving over the speed limit reduces a driver's ability to react quickly to obstacles and increases the severity of accidents.
- Defective Vehicle Parts – Mechanical failures, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, can lead to loss of control.
- Weather/Road hazards – Hazardous conditions on the road are particularly dangerous for because hitting a sudden hazard can cause a motorist to lose control. Rain, snow, fog, and ice can affect visibility and road traction, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
The above are only some examples of how negligent parties cause motor vehicle accidents that can change the lives of motorists and passengers. Make sure to identify any possible negligence that occurred so that you can protect your legal rights to compensation. Nemann Law Offices can help you determine which parties you may hold responsible for your accidents and injuries.
Common Injuries from Motor Vehicle Accidents:
- Concussions/Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Whiplash
- Airbag Injuries
- Neck or Back Injuries
- Skull Fractures
- Spinal Chord Injuries
- Fractured Collarbones/Ribs
- Broken Jaws, Noses, or Cheekbones
- Eye Injuries
- Broken Arms, Wrists, or Hands
- Leg Fractures
- Joint Dislocations
- Soft Tissue Sprains, Strains, and Tears
- Internal Bleeding
Such injuries can require emergency medical attention, including an ambulance ride to the emergency department. Some victims may need immediate surgery and other treatments to stabilize their injuries, as well as hospitalization for a period of time for monitoring. Other common medical treatments can include physical and rehabilitative therapy, pain medication, home health assistance, and medical equipment.
Motor Vehicle Accident victims not only will incur medical bills for all of the treatment they need, but they also regularly lose out on income from missing work while they recover from their injuries. These financial losses can be devastating and can damage many areas of an accident victim’s life. Because the losses can be so substantial, it is critical to know your rights as an accident victim.
Your Rights After an Ohio Motor Vehicle Accident
If you are involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident in Ohio, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself. Here’s an overview of your rights and options following an accident in Ohio:
1. Right to Seek Compensation - Bodily Injury Liability: In Ohio, if another driver is at fault for the accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. The minimum bodily injury liability coverage required in Ohio is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. - Property Damage: You can also claim compensation for damage to your vehicle and any personal property affected by the accident.
2. Right to File an Insurance Claim - Claim Against At-Fault Driver: You can file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. - Your Own Insurance: If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
3. Right to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit - If negotiations with the insurance company do not result in a fair settlement, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This legal action can help recover damages not covered by insurance, including long-term medical expenses and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
4. Right to Medical Treatment - Immediate Care: You have the right to seek medical treatment immediately after an accident, regardless of fault. It’s important to document all medical visits and treatments related to the accident. - Ongoing Care: If you have ongoing medical needs due to the accident, you can seek compensation for future medical expenses as part of your claim.
5. Right to Legal Representation - Consult an Attorney: You have the right to consult with an attorney who specializes in personal injury law. An attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Our experienced attorneys can help you hold negligent parties liable in many different ways. For example, you may file a claim with that party’s insurance company, or you may need to file a personal injury claim against them in court. The process for seeking compensation from a government entity, however, is very specific and set out by Ohio law. You always need the guidance of a lawyer who can identify the best method of seeking the compensation you deserve.
Discuss Your Situation With Ohio's Best Personal Injury Law Firm
Nemann Law Offices represents motor vehicle accident victims who have sustained a wide variety of injuries and losses. The sooner you call our office, the sooner we can evaluate your situation and begin protecting your rights as an accident victim. To schedule your free consultation, please call us at (614) 333-6007 or contact us online today.
