Columbus Car Accident Lawyers

At Colombo Law, we have an in-depth understanding of how car accidents can alter people’s lives. Common questions we hear include: How will I pay my bills? Can I sue the other driver? And, How long do I have to make a claim? We can answer these questions for you based on the unique details of your case, as well as pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.

How a Columbus Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You

As car accident lawyers, our job is to guide you through your accident claim. We have years of experience helping victims get the compensation they deserve after they have been wronged by a negligent driver.

Our personal injury attorneys in Columbus will take the burden of this difficult time off of your shoulders and fight to help you recover compensation for your expenses. It’s our goal to make this process as simple and stress-free for you as possible so you can focus on what is most important—your health.

While it is possible to settle without a car accident lawyer, it can be very difficult. You will have to handle everything yourself, from paying court fees to gathering evidence to (potentially) making your argument in court. When you hire a car accident attorney at Colombo Law, you can trust that we will handle your case properly, from the smallest detail to the largest.

Our auto accident lawyers will handle all aspects of your case, including:

• Gathering police reports
• Collecting medical records and bills
• Obtaining electronic evidence like CCTV footage and phone call recordings
• Talking to insurance adjusters
• Gathering witness testimony
• Obtaining expert witness to testify in your favor
• Checking for automobile defects or recalls that may have caused the accident

Ultimately, our goal is to put your mind at ease and aggressively champion your rights every step of the way. You can count on a Columbus car accident lawyer at our firm to provide the highest standard of legal service and advocacy.

Types of Vehicle Accident Cases We Handle

Motor vehicle accidents can take a variety of different forms. Through decades of legal practice, our attorneys have helped clients achieve justice for a wide range of wrecks.

Colombo Law can capably represent you after any of the following:

• Rear-end collisions: The most common type of crash, rear-end collisions often occur on congested roads and at intersections.
• Head-on crashes: A head-on collision can have devastating consequences for the occupants of both vehicles. They frequently happen when one driver isn’t paying attention and drifts into the opposing lane of traffic.
• Side impact/T-bone collision: We frequently see vehicles T-boning one another in dangerous intersections such as Cleveland Avenue & Morse Road, Hilliard Rome Road & Renner Road, etc.
• Left-turn collisions: Both head-on and side impact crashes may occur when a driver turning left fails to yield the right of way to an oncoming vehicle.
• Truck accidents: Semi-trucks pose unique dangers to passenger vehicles. Colombo Law has extensive experience advocating for people who have been injured by 18-wheelers and other commercial vehicles in Columbus and all of Ohio.
• Blind spot accidents: All vehicles have blind spots, but they’re massive on big trucks. Unsafe lane changes can lead to serious accidents on multi-lane roads and busy highways.
• Sideswipe accidents: A sideswipe collision may involve two vehicles traveling in the same direction or the opposite direction. In extreme cases, one or both drivers may be run off the road.
• Drunk driving crashes: Impaired driving is a year-round problem, but the risk is higher on weekends and holidays. Know your rights if you were hit by a drunk driver.
• Hit-and-run accidents: Experienced legal counsel is crucial for identifying the hit-and-run driver and determining the available insurance coverage.
• Uninsured driver accidents: A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can discuss legal options for holding an uninsured or underinsured driver accountable, as well as making a UM/UIM claim with your insurance company.
• Pedestrian Accidents: Collisions between motorists and pedestrians typically occur at intersections. They are often the result of negligence on the part of the driver.
• Motorcycle Accidents: Liability can be a complex issue in motorcycle accident claims. Our lawyers can fight for full compensation on behalf of riders.
• Bicycle Accidents: Columbus is a fairly bike-friendly city, but there are multiple paths that can bring cyclists into contact with vehicle traffic. This has the potential for serious collisions between bicycles and motor vehicles.

Whether you were injured as a driver or passenger in a car, on a motorcycle, or as a pedestrian or bicyclist, Colombo Law can help you explore your legal options. Contact us today for a FREE case review.

We Have Helped Our Personal Injury Clients Receive Millions of Dollars

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Common Car Accident Injuries

Even car accidents that seem minor at first can end up causing someone tremendous pain and anguish. Additionally, serious car accidents often cause life-altering injuries to their victims.

As car accident lawyers, we see countless people suffer injuries in car accidents. These include:

• Bone fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Facial and dental trauma
• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Eye injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Burn injuries
• Amputation injuries
• Damage to internal organs
• Nerve damage
• Wrongful death

Some people we have helped make a full recovery, while others are left with lifelong disabilities. In the worst cases, we support bereaved family members whose loved one died as a result of their injuries from the accident. Monetary relief cannot make up for what you’ve lost, but it can help with expenses and lay the groundwork for your future.

What Our Clients Are Saying

“

It amazed me that Dino would take on a company that size, but he did. He took care of it. He got the insurance company to reimburse me for all of my damages and time lost. I can’t say enough good things about him.

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-Ralph

“

You can’t negotiate with an insurance company. You have to have something more – that is when Dino came in. Thank god for Dino. He was just marvelous. He cared so much. I don’t know what we would have done without him.

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-Joe

“

We want to thank you so very much for all that you have done for our family. January 10, 2024 our world changed, we didn’t know what to do or where to go but Dino came to the hospital after work hours to give us support, he has showed up more than once in our time of need. He has been with us to this day giving us support and advice. You Dino are the best, we are very grateful for your assistance. You have gone above and beyond to help us and we appreciate you so very much. Thanks again!! Betty, Ray and Becky

“

-Becky Johnson

“

From my very first phone calls to the day everything is going to be over, Kayla, Nathan and everyone I interacted with at this office have been so amazing!! I always felt like I was in the best hands and they looked out for my best interests (not their paychecks)! Can’t tell you enough how great this group is!! Everything was explained and my questions were happily answered. But, the best part is how “down to earth” and personable they are! Crappy accident with a positive outcome!!! 6 🌟

“

-Tracy Masters

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Columbus?

You have a limited time to pursue compensation for car accident injuries. In Ohio, the deadline for making a personal injury claim is 2 years. This is known as the statute of limitations.

If you wait too long to bring a legal action, your case is highly likely to be rejected by the courts. A Columbus car accident lawyer at Colombo Law can take steps right away to protect your rights and ensure that all deadlines are met.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Columbus?

Accidents in and around Franklin County have a number of potential causes. Getting to the root of what caused the crash is critical for identifying who is at fault and what options you have for obtaining compensation.

The main reasons car accidents happen in Columbus include, but are not limited to:

• Failure to yield
• Speeding
• Inexperienced drivers (such as teens and youths)
• Drinking and driving
• Running red lights and stop signs
• Distracted driving
• Unsafe turns, lane changes, and merging
• Fatigued driving
• Dangerous roads
• Tailgating
• Reckless and aggressive driving
• Hazardous weather conditions
• Wildlife in the road

The Ohio State Highway Patrol maintains comprehensive crash statistics, including common causes, when they occur, and where. Routes that consistently have the most crashes in Franklin County include I-270, US Highway 40, I-70, I-71, and US Route 23. These are all major highways that cut right through the heart of Columbus, bringing millions of vehicles through the city every year.

Lots of vehicles traveling at high rates of speed mean more accidents. Columbus is also a trucking hub, with the high volume of semi-trucks presenting its own set of unique risks to drivers.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Columbus, Ohio

The first few moments after a car crash can be scary. It can be hard to stay calm and focused after the accident, but it is important that you try your best to do so.

You have two priorities after a car accident. First, you need to take care of yourself. Second, you need to give your case the best chance of success. Following these steps can help you meet both of these goals:

1. Call 9-1-1 to request emergency assistance. The Columbus Police Department or Ohio State Highway Patrol will likely respond to the scene of the accident.
2. Check yourself and others for injuries.
3. If it is safe to do so, move vehicles and debris out of the road.
4. Exchange contact and insurance information with any drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists involved.
5. Take notes on how and where the car accident occurred.
6. Take photos of damages and injuries.
7. Speak to any witnesses in the area and get their contact information.
8. Get medical attention. See a doctor as soon as possible, or go to the emergency room for serious injuries.
9. Notify your insurance company about the accident.
10. Get in touch with an Ohio car accident attorney.

Even though you’re likely to be upset after a wreck, it’s important to remember to keep your opinions about who caused the accident to yourself. After you speak with the police and give them the details of the accident, your next step should be to speak to the car accident attorneys at Colombo Law. Remember that discussing the incident with the other parties involved or insurance adjusters is never recommended and can negatively affect the outcome of your case.

Who Is Liable for a Car Accident?

Some accident cases are relatively straightforward, while others may involve complex liability issues. It is important not to assume that your claim will be simple; you might leave money on the table if you fail to take action against all of the defendants.

Our Columbus car accident lawyers can determine the parties that may be at fault and liable for damages in a car accident claim. This may include:

Driver Liability

Motorists are required to follow the rules of the road and act as a reasonable person would behind the wheel. Negligence is when they fail in these duties, which can lead to a crash.

You will need to provide specific evidence of negligence on the part of a driver for your claim to succeed. This may include evidence of speeding, disregarding a traffic light or stop sign, etc.

Vehicle Owner Liability

In some cases the owner and the driver of the vehicle are not the same person. Depending on the circumstances, both the negligent driver and the owner of the car may be held responsible for damages.

Employer Liability for Driver’s Actions

Employers may be held liable for accidents caused by negligent drivers who are on the clock. We commonly see this in truck accident claims. Colombo Law has extensive experience holding trucking companies responsible for accidents stemming from truck driver negligence.

Dram Shop Liability

Ohio’s dram shop law states that a permitted seller of alcohol may be held liable for injuries or death caused by an intoxicated patron if they serve beer or liquor to (a) a noticeably intoxicated person or (b) someone under the age of 21. Evidence may reveal that the at-fault driver was drunk, in which case our lawyers can investigate to determine if a bar, restaurant, or other establishment was negligent in serving the defendant.

Product Liability

Manufacturers may be held liable if a defective vehicle and/or defective parts cause a car accident. Colombo Law works with leading automotive experts to inspect the vehicles involved and determine if a faulty component led to the crash. This may give rise to a product liability claim.

Liability for Dangerous Roads

Driving is dangerous enough without having to worry about whether the road is properly designed or maintained. Sadly, unsafe roads can cause drivers to crash. A municipality or other government agency that fails to design and/or maintain the road may be held liable if hazardous designs, debris, and other issues were a factor.

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What If I Was Partly at Fault for the Wreck?

You may still be entitled to compensation if you were partly at fault, but any damages will be reduced. Ohio’s contributory negligence statute states that a plaintiff can recover damages if their share of fault doesn’t exceed that of the defendant(s). In other words, recovery is not barred if the plaintiff’s apportionment of fault (wrongdoing in a given factual scenario) is less than 51%.

The percentage of fault determines how much you will be able to recover. Damages are diminished in proportion to your share of the blame.

Effectively, this means that if you are 20% at fault and the defendants are jointly 80% at fault for causing a crash, you can recover 80% of the value of your claim. Inversely, if the court finds that you are 51% at fault for the crash and the defendant’s apportionment of fault is 49%, then you won’t be able to recover anything.

Defendants and insurance companies often try to shift blame in an effort to avoid responsibility. At Colombo Law, we closely examine the evidence and counter arguments that you are at fault to maximize compensation for your losses.

What Compensation Can I Get for a Car Accident?

You may incur a number of expenses after being in a car accident. Not only can these be challenging to handle from an emotional standpoint, but they can also cause tremendous financial difficulties. If you’ve been a victim of a car accident in Columbus, you may be entitled to compensation for several different types of losses.

Economic or special damages refer to losses with a quantifiable financial component, whether it’s money you have to spend or money you lose. This may include:

• Medical bills, current and future
• Medications, medical equipment, and assistive devices
• Lost income
• Reduced earning capacity
• Out-of-pocket costs for home and vehicle modifications
• Home-based nursing care
• Household services and support

Non-economic or general damages don’t have a clear monetary value, instead referring more broadly to negative effects on your life. They include:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional anguish
• Disfigurement
• Permanent disability
• Loss of companionship and consortium
• Shame and humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Finally, there are punitive or exemplary damages. These damages are rarely awarded by the courts in Ohio, but they may be available in your case if the defendant demonstrated “malice or aggravated or egregious fraud” (see Ohio Revised Code § 2315.21).

Are There Caps on Damages in Ohio Car Accident Claims?

Yes, Ohio law does impose caps on several types of damages in car accident and personal injury claims.

Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, etc. are generally limited to (a) $250,000 or (b) 3 times the value of economic damages, up to $350,000—whichever is greater. The cap on non-economic damages does not apply if the victim suffers a catastrophic, life-altering injury.

Punitive damages are capped at two times the value of compensatory damages (i.e., economic and non-economic damages). When the defendant is an individual or small employer, punitive damages may not exceed the lesser of $350,000 or 10% of the defendant’s net worth.

How Do I Make a Car Accident Claim?

First, we strongly advise hiring a Columbus car accident lawyer to act on your behalf. A seasoned attorney at our firm will know what to do and how to represent you effectively.

Ohio is an at-fault insurance state, which means the person who caused the accident is responsible for any and all expenses that arise after the accident. If you were the victim of an accident caused by someone else, the at-fault party’s insurance company is responsible for paying your compensation.

To start the process of receiving payment, our lawyers will file a claim directly with the at-fault party’s insurer. We can also help you file a claim with your own insurance company, as well as assess any other claims you may have.

It can be extremely difficult to get a fair settlement on your own. Attorneys at Colombo Law will negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, pushing back against unfair offers and striving to obtain the settlement you deserve.

What if the insurer won’t compensate you fairly? Don’t worry; Colombo Law is one of the most celebrated trial law firms in Ohio. We prepare every case as though it will go to trial, which is extremely advantageous in the event that we have to file a lawsuit and go to court.

Why Choose Colombo Law for Your Car Accident Case?

The benefits of trusting Colombo Law with your case include:

• Commitment to our clients: Dino Colombo founded our firm in 1999 with the goal of providing dedicated legal services for seriously injured people. In-depth knowledge of complex claims and a passion for helping those in need has made Colombo Law a trusted personal injury and wrongful death firm in Columbus and beyond.
• Results: Our team has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of clients who were injured or lost someone they love in a car accident. Many of these cases settled out of court, but we never hesitate to go to trial if it’s in the best interest of our clients.
• Capabilities and resources: You can trust a car accident lawyer at Colombo Law to go the extra mile in all aspects of your case. We diligently collect all available evidence, enlist the right experts, and account for every dollar in losses.
• Local recognition and referrals: We have had numerous satisfied clients and fellow attorneys refer cases to us. Even employees of the insurance companies we face have pointed people in our direction. That’s because our attorneys have a strong reputation in the local community—both at the negotiating table and in the courtroom.
• No upfront costs: Many people don’t talk to a lawyer after a car accident because they’re worried about cost. With our No Fee Promise, you don’t have to pay anything upfront and only have to pay our fees when we win.

Contact a Columbus Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you were involved in a car accident in Columbus, we suggest you speak to a skilled attorney right away. The car accident injury lawyers at Colombo Law have years of experience helping accident victims throughout the Columbus metropolitan area and other Ohio communities.

Our lawyers understand the dangers local drivers face. Experienced, aggressive and compassionate, we fight for your rights and do everything we can to see you made whole again.

Learn how a Columbus car accident lawyer can help if you were injured by a careless driver. Call Colombo Law at 614-362-7000 today for a FREE case review.