Let’s say you’ve done everything right—reported the crash, got medical treatment, filed a claim with the insurance company—and you’re still not getting anywhere.
No fair offer. Just silence. Or worse, delays and denials.
That’s when people start searching how to file a car accident lawsuit in Ohio.
If you’re in Columbus and wondering what it really takes to sue after a wreck, here’s a clear, step-by-step guide. Straight talk. No nonsense. Just what to expect and how to do it right.
When Should You Consider Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit?
You don’t sue just because. You sue when you’re backed into a corner.
- The insurance company denied your claim.
- They lowballed you—offered way less than your medical bills.
- Your injuries are long-term or life-changing.
- The at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance (or barely any).
- You’re coming up on the 2-year statute of limitations in Ohio.
If any of these are happening, don’t wait. Every day that passes can weaken your case.
Ohio’s Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits
Here’s the deal:
- Personal injury: 2 years from the crash date.
- Wrongful death: 2 years from the date of death.
- Property damage: 4 years from the accident.
If you miss the deadline, your case is dead on arrival. Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.10 backs this up.
Don’t mess around with the calendar. Start early.
Step-by-Step: How to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Columbus
Step 1: Get Medical Care + Documentation
Even if it feels “minor,” go see a doctor.
- Keep ER records, follow-ups, treatment plans
- Take pictures of your injuries and vehicle damage
- Hold onto all bills, receipts, and prescriptions
- Track your recovery in a daily log—pain levels, missed work, struggles
This is your evidence. Don’t lose it.
Step 2: Try to Settle with the Insurance Company
Most cases settle out of court. But the first offer? Usually a joke.
That’s where a demand letter comes in.
Include:
- What happened
- Proof of injury and costs
- Total amount you’re asking for
- Deadline for response
Still getting ghosted or lowballed? Time to lawyer up.
Step 3: Hire a Columbus Car Accident Lawyer
Here’s why it’s worth it:
- They’ll gather police reports, medical records, witness statements
- They deal with adjusters and defense attorneys so you don’t have to
- They calculate what your claim is really worth
Complex case? Michael D. Christensen Law Offices LLC has handled plenty. Get your free case review today → Request a Free Case Evaluation
Step 4: File the Lawsuit in the Right Court
For Columbus crashes, that’s the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas.
What’s in the complaint?
- Names of all parties
- What happened
- What injuries you suffered
- What laws were violated
- How much you’re seeking
Filing fee? Around $200–$300.
Step 5: Serve the Defendant
This step is critical. You must notify the at-fault party.
Ways to do it:
- Certified mail
- Sheriff’s deputy
- Private process server
In Ohio, they need to be served within 6 months or the case can be tossed.
Step 6: Defendant Responds
They’ve got 28 days to file an “Answer.”
They can:
- Admit fault
- Deny it
- Claim defenses like you were partially at fault (Ohio uses comparative negligence)
Step 7: Discovery Phase
This is where both sides dig.
Expect:
- Depositions (recorded Q&As under oath)
- Interrogatories (written questions)
- Medical record requests
- Accident reconstruction, expert opinions
Yeah—it gets deep. And long.
Step 8: Settlement Talks or Mediation
Sometimes the court forces it.
Other times your lawyer goes back to negotiate—this time with more leverage.
A strong lawyer often turns a weak offer into a fair settlement here.
Step 9: Trial
If nothing works, you’re going to court.
At trial:
- Each side presents their case
- You prove your story with evidence
- A judge or jury decides
If you win? You get a judgment. If you lose? You may appeal—but that’s rare.
What Can You Get in an Ohio Car Accident Lawsuit?
Real compensation. Not just bills. Here’s what’s on the table:
- Medical expenses (now and in the future)
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Mental anguish
- Punitive damages if the other driver was reckless (e.g. DUI)
Want estimates? Here’s how to calculate car accident worth in Ohio
How Long Does It All Take?
Anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Depends on:
- How badly you’re hurt
- Whether the other side wants to settle
- Court scheduling
- Whether expert witnesses are needed
Be ready for the long haul.
Common Lawsuit Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Waiting too long
Mistake #2: No medical records
Mistake #3: Taking the first offer
Mistake #4: Filing in the wrong court
Mistake #5: Representing yourself
Real talk: Even experienced paralegals can screw this up in Ohio. Don’t risk it. Hire a pro.
How a Columbus Car Accident Attorney Can Help You
- Takes over every legal headache
- Protects you from games insurance companies play
- Gets experts involved to back your case
- Keeps your case on track while you focus on healing
- You pay nothing unless you win
Ready? Get your free case evaluation today.
FAQs
How much does it cost to file a car accident lawsuit in Columbus?
Filing fees range from $200 to $300. If you hire Michael D. Christensen Law Offices LLC, there’s no cost unless you win.
What if I was partially at fault?
Ohio follows comparative negligence. If you’re less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages—just reduced by your fault percentage.
Do I need a lawyer to file a car accident lawsuit?
Technically, no. Realistically, yes. The system is complex, and without a lawyer, your case is a shot in the dark.
How long do I have to sue after a car accident in Ohio?
You’ve got 2 years from the accident date to file for personal injury. Don’t wait.
Is it worth suing for minor injuries?
If it’s just a scratch, maybe not. But if pain lingers, medical bills add up, or insurance won’t pay—you may need to.
Let’s Wrap It Up
If you’re stuck, ignored, or being lowballed, it’s time to fight back.
The team at Michael D. Christensen Law Offices LLC knows exactly how to file a car accident lawsuit in Ohio and win.
Located at 3341 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43204
📞 Call +1 614-300-5000
Request your free case evaluation here
No pressure. No fees unless you win. Just answers.
