Best Car Accident Lawyers in West Chester, OH

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in West Chester, Ohio?

  513-777-2231 is the non-emergency contact number for the West Chester Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in West Chester, Ohio?

  Copies of police reports for car accidents in West Chester can be obtained online from the West Chester Police Department through the state of Ohio's Department of Public Safety. It takes 72 hours to process car accident reports.

• Is it critical for people involved in a car accident in West Chester to receive a medical evaluation even if they feel they were not seriously injured in an accident?

  Yes, car accident victims in West Chester must seek medical attention following a collision, regardless of the severity of their injuries. It is critical to understand that after an accident, a person's body is often full of adrenaline, making it difficult to determine the extent of injuries sustained accurately.

• What are some of the most dangerous roads in West Chester and throughout Ohio?

  A MoneyGeek analysis of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data on fatal crashes has identified a stretch of Interstate 75 traversing West Chester Township, Evendale, and Sharonville as one of the deadliest five-mile stretches of road in Ohio. The study has also found Hamilton County to be the third deadliest county for drivers out of Ohio's 88 counties. In addition, Columbus has the deadliest road on I-71 between 11th Avenue to the south and Morse Road to the north, with fatal crashes that resulted in deaths.

• What methods are used to calculate compensation for pain and suffering caused by car accidents in West Chester and throughout Ohio?

  A way to calculate pain and suffering damages for car accident victims in West Chester is to multiply economic losses by a number between one and five, with the average claim using a multiplier of three. The daily rate theory is another method commonly used to calculate pain and suffering, where victims claim damages for each day they experience pain and suffering due to the accident.

• Is it possible to charge hit-and-run drivers in West Chester and throughout Ohio with an additional crime?

  Yes, drivers in West Chester who flee the scene of an accident may face a hit-and-run charge and a separate criminal charge like OVI or DUI offense which can increase the potential penalties they may face. Fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal and interpreted as an admission of guilt by police, prosecutors, and judges. Any driver involved in an accident is required by state law to stop immediately, wait for or contact authorities, and seek medical attention.

• How does Ohio’s comparative negligence insurance law affect car accident claims in West Chester?

  West Chester adheres to Ohio's comparative negligence insurance law, which determines the amount of damages that can be awarded based on the percentage of fault shared by all parties involved in an accident. The comparative negligence standard recognizes that multiple parties may be held partially or entirely responsible for any damages caused by the accident. Each party is assigned a percentage of blame for the incident, which corresponds to the percentage of damages that a party can obtain by filing a personal injury claim.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.