Car accidents can cause serious injuries, vehicle damage, and emotional trauma. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Columbus, Ohio, understanding your right to compensation is essential. Ohio is a fault-based state, meaning the party responsible for causing the accident is liable for paying damages. At Mike Christensen Law Offices, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Do You Qualify for Car Accident Compensation in Ohio?
If you’ve been involved in a car crash, several factors can determine whether you’re entitled to financial recovery. These include who was at fault, the extent of your injuries, and the overall impact of the accident on your life.
1. Determining Fault
Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule. You can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.
Examples of negligence include:
Distracted driving (e.g., texting)
Driving under the influence
Speeding or reckless driving
Failing to yield or obey traffic signs
If another driver’s negligence caused your accident, you likely have a valid claim.
Types of Compensation You Can Recover After a Car Accident
Ohio law allows car accident victims to pursue several categories of damages:
1. Economic Damages
These cover tangible financial losses, including:
Medical Expenses: ER visits, surgeries, hospital stays, medication, physical therapy, and long-term care
Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work during recovery
Loss of Future Earnings: If injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your earning potential
Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property
Out-of-Pocket Costs: Rental car expenses, transportation to medical appointments, home accessibility modifications, etc.
2. Non-Economic Damages
These compensate for intangible losses that impact your quality of life:
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and limitations
Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD resulting from the crash
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to engage in hobbies or daily activities
Loss of Consortium: Damages available to spouses or close family members due to the effect of your injuries on your relationship
3. Punitive Damages
While rare, punitive damages may be awarded in cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct—such as drunk driving or hit-and-run accidents. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter future behavior.
Factors That May Affect the Value of Your Claim
The value of a car accident claim can vary widely depending on:
Severity of Injuries: More serious injuries often result in higher compensation
Your Degree of Fault: If you’re partially responsible, your damages may be reduced
Insurance Coverage Limits: The at-fault driver’s policy limits may cap your available compensation
Evidence and Documentation: Medical records, witness statements, accident scene photos, and police reports strengthen your case
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Columbus
Ohio has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim. It’s crucial to act quickly and follow these steps:
Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention
Report the accident to law enforcement
Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved
Document the scene with photos or videos
Obtain witness contact information
Consult a car accident attorney before speaking with the insurance company
How Mike Christensen Law Offices Can Help You Secure Columbus Car Accident Compensation
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming—especially when you’re dealing with medical bills, insurance companies, and lost wages. At Mike Christensen Law Offices, our experienced car accident lawyers in Columbus are here to help you pursue full and fair compensation for your injuries and financial losses.
Whether you were involved in a minor collision or a serious crash, we are committed to holding the at-fault party accountable and guiding you every step of the way.
✅ Thorough Case Investigation
Our legal team begins every case with a comprehensive investigation. We gather vital evidence including:
Police and accident reports
Photos or videos from the scene
Witness statements
Medical records
Insurance documentation
This allows us to build a compelling claim that clearly demonstrates the other party’s negligence and your right to Columbus car accident compensation.
✅ Aggressive Insurance Negotiation
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Our Columbus car accident attorneys are skilled negotiators who understand the tactics insurers use—and we’re not afraid to push back. We advocate for the maximum settlement you’re entitled to, covering everything from medical expenses to pain and suffering.
✅ Strong Litigation Support
If negotiations fail to yield a fair settlement, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial. With in-depth knowledge of Ohio car accident laws, we present a powerful case in court to secure the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
✅ Personalized Legal Guidance
We understand that every car accident case is unique. As your trusted personal injury attorney in Columbus, Mike Christensen provides hands-on representation, tailored strategies, and direct access throughout your case. You won’t get passed off to paralegals—you’ll speak directly with your lawyer.
✅ No Upfront Legal Fees – You Don’t Pay Unless We Win
We believe justice should be accessible. That’s why our Columbus car accident law firm works on a contingency fee basis. You pay no legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. There’s no risk in reaching out—and everything to gain.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Let Mike Christensen Law Offices fight for the Columbus car accident compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and only get paid if you win.
Columbus Car Accident & Lawyer FAQs
Who Is Liable For My Car Accident in Columbus?
There are a few things to consider when determining who is liable for a car accident in Columbus. First, you will need to look at the police report and see who was cited for the accident. If one of the drivers was cited, then they may be held liable. Another thing to consider is if there were any witnesses to the accident. If there were, their testimony may be used to help determine who was at fault. Lastly, you will want to consult with an experienced car accident attorney to discuss your case and see if they can help you determine who is liable for the accident.
What Is Your Car Accident Claim Worth in Ohio?
That is a hard question to answer because every car accident is different. In general, you can be compensated to costs related to anything associated with your car accident. Even if these expenses occurred well after your accident, you shouldn’t have to pay for them.
Accident-related expenses can include:
- Doctor bills
- Car repairs, transportation, and, in some cases, a new car
- Lost income and future earnings
- Modifications to your home, if you sustained a permanent disability
- Pain and suffering
Columbus car accident Attorney, Mike Christensen can help you determine what your case is worth. Mike knows what you are going through. He has been helping people injured in car accidents for many years and has taken on the insurance companies and won. He can help protect your legal rights and maximize the value of your claim by negotiating with the insurance company.
Do I Have A Car Accident Case?
Our knowledgeable and aggressive attorney, Mike will help you determine if you have an accident case. Here are some factors that are considered:
- How did your car wreck happen? Were you rear-ended or struck head-on? Was the other driver texting or under the influence of drugs or alcohol? Mike will raise question after question to get justice for clients.
- Who was at fault? This is a key question when handling a car accident claim. The insurance company may deny the other driver was at fault – and may even point the finger at you. That’s why you need a highly experienced advocate who will reveal the truth and hold the responsible party accountable.
- How were you injured? Did you receive a concussion, which can be a serious brain injury with a long-term impact? Did you injure your neck or back? The insurance company may downplay the seriousness of the injury, but Mike Christensen can work with outside experts, including doctors, to illustrate the devastating nature of your injury. A serious injury in a car wreck can turn your world upside down. Mike will set things right.
Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer If I’ve Been In A Car Accident?
Car accidents can leave drivers and passengers seriously injured – or worse. If this ever happens to you, you need a personal injury lawyer who can help you get compensated for your losses.
A car accident can change your life, both financially and emotionally. Adding insult to injury, the insurance company will try to pressure you to agree to a quick lowball settlement offer.
You should be compensated for:
- Lost wages and future earning
- Medical bills including for hospital stays, physical therapy, and prescriptions.
- Car repair bills and transportation while it is in the repair shop, or the cost of a new car.
- Pain and suffering
You need someone on your side who will fight for you. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, get a personal injury lawyer on your side.
Why Do I Need A Car Accident Lawyer in Columbus?
Each case is different but Columbus personal injury law firms have many resources they can use to get results for you. A personal injury lawyer can:
- Examine records, including the official accident report
- Gather evidence, including interviewing witnesses and taking depositions, if needed
- Consult with accident reconstruction experts, to determine the exact cause of the crash, if needed
- Figure out your exact economic loss and the total financial impact of the car accident on your life
