Car accidents are often overwhelming, and dealing with insurance companies afterward often adds another layer of stress. Understanding how Ohio’s insurance laws work and knowing the right steps to take will make a huge difference in the outcome of your claim. Whether you’re filing with your own insurance provider or negotiating with another driver’s insurer, following the right approach will help protect your rights and financial recovery.

Understanding Ohio’s Insurance Requirements

Ohio follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the driver responsible for an accident is financially liable for damages. The state mandates minimum liability coverage for all drivers, which includes:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

While these minimums provide a basic safety net, serious accidents often result in damages far exceeding these amounts. That’s why many drivers opt for higher coverage limits or additional policies such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and medical payments (MedPay) coverage to safeguard against unexpected costs.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Handling insurance after a car accident starts at the scene. Taking the right steps early on can strengthen your claim and prevent disputes later.

Document the Scene Thoroughly

• Take clear photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.
• Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver.
• Collect witness statements and their contact details if possible.
• If the accident caused injuries or significant damage, call law enforcement and obtain a police report. This document can be critical when filing an insurance claim.

Notify Your Insurance Provider Promptly

Most insurance policies require immediate reporting of an accident, even if you weren’t at fault. Delaying your report could result in claim denial or complications in the settlement process. When notifying your insurer:

• Stick to facts—avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened.
• Provide documentation from the scene, including photos and the police report.
• Ask about coverage options that may apply, such as rental car reimbursement or medical payments coverage.

Filing a Claim: Understanding Your Options

In Ohio, accident victims have multiple options when pursuing compensation:

Filing a Claim with Your Own Insurance (First-Party Claim)

If you carry collision coverage, your insurer can pay for vehicle repairs regardless of fault. You may also use your MedPay coverage for medical expenses, though this is typically limited to smaller amounts. If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help cover your losses.

Filing a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance (Third-Party Claim)

Since Ohio is an at-fault state, you are able to file a claim directly with the other driver’s insurer to recover costs related to vehicle damage, medical fees, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, insurers often try to minimize payouts by:

• Disputing liability (arguing their policyholder wasn’t at fault)
• Undervaluing damages to offer a lower settlement
• Delaying claim processing in hopes of pressuring you to settle for less

Pursuing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

If the at-fault driver’s insurance refuses to provide fair compensation, you may need to take legal action. Ohio allows accident victims to file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the date the accident happened. While litigation takes longer than an insurance claim, it may be necessary in cases involving severe injuries or wrongful death.

Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their primary objective is to reduce payouts and safeguard the company's profits.

When speaking with an adjuster:

• Be cautious about recorded statements—insurers may twist your words to dispute your claim.
• Do not accept the first settlement offer, as it’s often lower than what you deserve.
• Get repair estimates from multiple shops before agreeing to the insurer’s valuation.
• If you suffered injuries, wait until you understand the full extent of your medical costs before settling.

If you feel the adjuster is acting in bad faith, such as unnecessarily delaying your claim or denying coverage without justification, you may have grounds for a bad faith insurance lawsuit.

What If the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured?

Despite Ohio law requiring auto insurance, some drivers still operate vehicles without coverage. If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, you have a few options:

• Uninsured motorist coverage (UM)—If you added this to your policy, it can cover medical bills and lost wages.
• Collision coverage—This will pay for car repairs, though you’ll be responsible for your deductible.
• Filing a lawsuit—You can sue the at-fault driver personally, but collecting damages may be difficult if they lack financial resources.

Given the risks of uninsured motorists, it’s wise to carry UM coverage, even though it’s not required in Ohio.

Common Insurance Claim Mistakes to Avoid

Many accident victims unknowingly jeopardize their claims by making avoidable mistakes. To protect your case:

• Don’t sign anything without reviewing the full terms—especially settlement agreements.
• Don’t exaggerate injuries or damages, as this can be used against you.
• Don’t post accident details on social media, as insurers may use your posts to challenge your claim.
• Don’t delay medical treatment—waiting too long can allow insurers to argue your injuries aren’t serious.

Conclusion

Handling insurance after a car accident in Ohio requires quick action, proper documentation, and strategic communication with insurers. Whether you’re filing a claim with your own provider or going after compensation from the at-fault driver, being informed can help you maximize your recovery and avoid common pitfalls. If an insurer unfairly denies or undervalues your claim, consulting a personal injury attorney may be the best way to secure the compensation you deserve.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating Ohio car accident claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.