Have you been injured in a car accident in the Columbus, Ohio area? You may be exploring options for seeking financial compensation for your injuries, especially if another driver was clearly at fault for the accident. For most motorists and vehicle occupants who suffer injuries in accidents, the most logical place to begin your quest for financial compensation is with an auto insurance claim. As an experienced Columbus car accident lawyer, I can represent you throughout the auto insurance claims process.

 Reporting the Accident to Your Own Insurance Company

If you got hurt in a car accident, you need to report the accident to your own insurance company regardless of whether you plan to file a claim with them. Please know that your insurance company is not your advocate. Even if an insurance claims representative or adjuster seems friendly and sympathetic, you need to remember that you are required to report the facts, but nothing more. Never give your opinion about fault to an auto insurance company because any subjective information could be used later to deny your claim.

 Should I File a First-Party or Third-Party Claim?

In the insurance claims process, the next step is determining whether to file a first-party claim (with your insurance company) or a third-party claim (with the at-fault driver’s insurance company). A first-party claim can often be quicker, but you will need to pay your deductive up front. A third-party claim has benefits and limitations, too. While you will not need to pay anything up front, minimum insurance requirements under Ohio law can mean that the at-fault driver does not have sufficient coverage to fully compensate you for your losses.

 Pay Attention to the Statute of Limitations in Case You Need to File a Lawsuit

While the statute of limitations for a civil lawsuit will not apply to your auto insurance claim, it is important to pay attention to the statute of limitations in the event you need to file a car accident lawsuit. Under Ohio law, car accident lawsuits usually need to get filed within two years from the date of the crash. If I work with you throughout the insurance claims process, I will make certain that you do not miss your chance to file a car accident lawsuit.

 Call My Office for Assistance with Your Auto Insurance Claim

If you were injured in a car crash in the Columbus area, I want you to know that I will do all that I can to help you obtain a fair and reasonable settlement from the insurance company. I know how important it is to get the financial compensation you need as quickly as possible.

As a Columbus car accident attorney with years of experience, I also know that insurance companies do not always act fairly. If necessary, I can help you file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver and any other parties who may be responsible for your auto accident injuries. Give me a call today at 877.614.9524 to learn more about your options for getting the compensation you deserve. I’ll Make Them Pay!®