In Ohio, the statute of limitations for a car accident is two years from the crash date. This deadline applies to personal injury and property damage claims. If you miss this deadline, you risk losing your right to seek damages from the party responsible for the crash.
Our Toledo personal injury lawyers will review your legal options and explain how we will lead your case and meet this important deadline by filing your claim on time. You can start with a free consultation today.
Ohio’s Car Accident Statute of Limitations
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10, car accident victims have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. The same deadline applies to property damage claims. Intentional acts have a statute of limitations of one year.
If someone dies from their injuries, the state’s wrongful death statute of limitations deadline applies instead. Typically, families have two years from their loved one’s date of death—not the accident—to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit, as outlined in Ohio Revised Code § 2125.02.
For a free legal consultation, call (419) 930-3030
What Happens If You Miss the Filing Deadline for Your Case?
If you file a lawsuit after the two-year deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case. This means you won’t be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Exceptions are rare, so it’s important to act quickly.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me (419) 930-3030
Are There Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations for a Crash?
Some situations may extend or shorten the filing deadline:
- Minor victims: If the injured person was under 18 at the time of the accident, the clock doesn’t start on the two-year deadline until their 18th birthday.
- Discovery rule: If injuries were not immediately known, the deadline may start from the date the injury was discovered.
- Claims against the government: If a government agency is involved (such as a city-owned vehicle), you may have a much shorter window to file a notice of claim.
How Our Personal Injury Lawyer Will Lead Your Case
When you’ve been injured in a car accident, managing an insurance claim or lawsuit can feel like too much. We will take the burden off your shoulders and handle your case from start to finish. We will:
Ensure We File Your Ohio Claim Before the Statute of Limitations Expires
The clock starts ticking the moment your accident happens. Our legal team will oversee all paperwork to ensure it is correct, and we will file on time.
Lead Settlement Negotiations With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies care more about adding to their bottom line than covering your damages. This means they can try to delay or deny valid claims. They may:
- Offer a lowball settlement that doesn’t cover all your expenses.
- Delay processing your claim in hopes you’ll give up.
- Try to blame you for the accident to reduce their liability.
We won’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you. Our attorneys will handle all negotiations, push back against unfair tactics, and fight for a settlement that truly reflects your losses.
If the insurer refuses to offer fair damages, we will take your case to court.
Investigate Your Accident to Prove Who Was At Fault
To recover damages, you must prove that the other party caused the crash. We will thoroughly investigate your case, which means we will gather:
- Police reports that document the accident.
- Eyewitness statements from people who saw what happened.
- Traffic camera or dashcam footage that may support your claim.
- Medical records to link your injuries directly to the crash.
By building a strong case backed by evidence, we will hold the at-fault driver accountable and position you for the best possible outcome.
Represent You in Court If Necessary
Most car accident claims settle out of court, but if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation for your losses, we are ready to take your case to trial. As experienced litigators, we will:
- Present strong evidence proving liability and the full extent of your injuries.
- Call expert witnesses, such as doctors and accident reconstruction specialists.
- Advocate for the financial recovery you deserve.
You shouldn’t have to fight this battle alone. Let us stand up for you and handle the legal process so you can focus on healing.
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What Damages Can You Recover After a Traffic Crash?
If you were hurt in a car accident, you may be able to recover money to help cover your losses. These losses fall into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages (Money You Lost)
These cover the financial costs of your accident, including:
- Medical bills: Hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, medications, and therapy.
- Lost wages: If you missed work because of your injuries.
- Property damage: Repairs or replacement for your car and other belongings.
- Future medical expenses: If you need ongoing care or treatment.
Non-Economic Damages (Pain and Suffering)
These losses are for the ways the accident affected your life, such as:
- Pain and suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
- Loss of enjoyment: If your injuries stop you from doing activities you once loved.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress from the crash.
Recoverable Losses in Fatal Car Accidents
If you lost a loved one in a car accident, certain family members may be able to recover damages in a wrongful death lawsuit. This legal action allows qualifying families to recover losses related to their loved one’s death, such as:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
We will help you understand what damages apply to your case and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Want Help With the Statute of Limitations for a Car Crash Claim in Ohio? Call Us
At Groth & Associates, we know how important it is to act fast after a car accident. With over 100 years of combined experience helping clients, we will handle your case while you recover from the collision.
As your local full-service law firm, we will fight to protect your rights and seek the damages you deserve. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call us today for a free consultation.
Call or text (419) 930-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form