What are your options for seeking compensation after a car accident? This is a question that many car accident victims have after a collision occurs. Depending upon how the car crash happened, you could have a few different options. The most important thing to keep in mind is that these cases can be complicated, and you should work on your claim with help from an experienced Columbus car accident lawyer. In the meantime, I want to tell you more about your options for compensation after a motor vehicle collision.

File an Auto Insurance Claim

Your first option, regardless of fault, is to file a first-party auto insurance claim with your own insurance company. Under Ohio’s auto insurance laws, whether you made a mistake and caused a collision or another driver was at fault, you can usually file a claim through your own auto insurer through collision coverage.

If the accident did not involve another driver (for example, if you collided with an animal or a tree), you may be able to file a claim for comprehensive insurance coverage. It will all depend upon your policy. When you file a first-party claim, you will need to pay the deductible associated with your insurance policy, and you will go through your insurer for compensation.

If another driver was at fault, you can still file a first-party auto insurance claim, but you also may be able to file a third-party claim through the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company. By filing a third-party claim, you will not have to pay a deductible, and the at-fault driver’s insurance company will handle the investigation and claims process.

Regardless of whether you file a first-party claim or a third-party claim, you need to know that the insurance company is not your advocate. Insurance companies always have their own bottom line in mind, and you should never say anything that could lead an insurer to limit or deny coverage due to fault.

File an Ohio Car Accident Lawsuit

When another motorist is at fault and you cannot get the compensation you need through an insurance claim, your next option is to file a car accident lawsuit. In many cases, I can convince the other side to offer a reasonable settlement once you file a car crash lawsuit. However, even if your case needs to go to the judge or jury, I will do everything I can to fight for your right to compensation.

Contact My Office Today to Get Started on Your Car Accident Claim

I know how difficult it can be to determine what steps you need to take after a car accident in order to seek compensation. You have probably spoken with your own insurance company to report the accident, and the insurance agent may have provided you with information about filing an insurance claim.

At the same time, you may have spoken to friends or family members who have encouraged you to file a lawsuit in order to seek additional damages from a negligent motorist. The car accident claims process can be complicated, but I am here to help. Contact my firm today at 877.614.9524 to learn more about your options for compensation after a car accident. I’ll Make Them Pay!®