Cincinnati Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident in Cincinnati, Ohio, it is important that you enlist the assistance of an experienced car accident attorney who can assist you in navigating the complex car accident claims process. At Monge & Associates, our team of experienced Cincinnati car accident attorneys is dedicated to helping clients recover the maximum compensation they deserve for their losses, pain, and suffering.

With our results-driven approach, we have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients. Our high-powered Cincinnati personal injury lawyers are prepared to do everything in their power to help you fight for the just recovery you deserve after a devastating car accident. Contact us today at 888-379-4165, or contact us online to schedule a free consultation

Cincinnati Car Accident Lawyer

What Is a Car Accident Claim?

A car accident claim is a legal action pursued by an injured party seeking compensation for damages resulting from a motor vehicle collision. When you are involved in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you have the right to seek monetary compensation for your injuries, financial losses, and more.

Each car accident claim is unique, and the legal process can vary depending on the specific circumstances. That is why it is crucial to consult with an experienced car accident attorney who can guide you through the complexities of the legal system and protect your rights throughout the claims process.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Cincinnati

Car accidents can occur due to various factors, and understanding the common causes can help establish liability and build a strong case for compensation. Some of the most prevalent causes of car accidents in Cincinnati include:

Distracted driving: Activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car technologies divert drivers’ attention from the road, leading to accidents.
Impaired driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions reduces a driver’s ability to respond to sudden changes, making accidents more likely and more severe.
Reckless driving: Behaviors such as aggressive driving, tailgating, improper lane changes, and running red lights endanger both the driver and others on the road, often resulting in accidents.
Fatigued driving: Driving while excessively fatigued or drowsy impairs a driver’s attention, reflexes, and decision-making abilities, making accidents more probable.
Poor weather conditions: Rain, snow, ice, fog, and other adverse weather conditions create hazardous driving conditions and contribute to accidents.

By identifying the cause of the accident, your Cincinnati car accident lawyer can determine liability and hold the responsible party accountable for their negligence or wrongful actions.

Who Can You Sue After a Car Accident in Cincinnati?

In a car accident, various parties may bear responsibility, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Potential parties you can sue include:

Negligent drivers: If the accident resulted from another driver’s negligent actions, such as distracted driving, drunk driving, or violating traffic laws, you may have grounds to sue that driver for compensation.
Employers: If the negligent driver was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident, their employer may share liability under the legal doctrine of vicarious liability.
Vehicle owners: If the vehicle involved in the accident was owned by someone other than the driver and the owner negligently entrusted their vehicle to an unfit or incompetent driver, they may be held liable.
Government entities: If the accident resulted from poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, or other road-related issues caused by the negligence of a government entity, you may have a claim against them.
Manufacturers: If a defect in the vehicle or its components played a role in causing the accident or exacerbating your injuries, the manufacturer may be held liable for producing a faulty product.

Determining liability requires a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering relevant evidence, and analyzing the specific circumstances. An experienced car accident attorney can skillfully navigate the legal complexities, identify the responsible parties, and build a strong case against them.

What Must You Prove to Win a Car Accident Claim in Ohio?

To prevail in a car accident claim in Ohio, you must establish several key elements. These elements include:

Duty of care: Showing that the at-fault party owed you a duty of care, which means they had a legal obligation to act responsibly and exercise reasonable caution while driving.
Breach of duty: Demonstrating that the at-fault party breached their duty of care through negligent or wrongful actions, such as failing to follow traffic laws, driving recklessly, or driving under the influence.
Causation: Establishing a direct link between the at-fault party’s breach of duty and the accident and injuries you sustained as a result of their actions.
Damages: Providing evidence of the specific injuries, losses, and damages you suffered as a result of the accident, such as medical records, bills, and testimony from medical experts.

Proving these elements requires a comprehensive understanding of the legal system and experience in handling car accident cases. An experienced Cincinnati car accident attorney can skillfully gather and present evidence, consult with expert witnesses, reconstruct the accident if necessary, and construct a compelling argument to support your claim.

What if the Other Driver Is Underinsured or Uninsured?

If you’re in a car accident where the other driver lacks adequate insurance, you face a challenging situation. While you could attempt to file a lawsuit against the underinsured or uninsured driver, collecting damages may be difficult if he or she has limited financial resources.

Instead, you may have to look to your own auto insurance policy for solutions. Some policies include coverage specifically for situations like this, which can help offset medical bills and property damage. To determine your optimal course of action, consult with an attorney from Monge & Associates.

What Damages Can You Receive in a Car Accident Claim in Cincinnati?

A car accident can cause a wide range of losses, financial, physical, and emotional. In a successful car accident claim, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, known as damages.

These damages aim to restore you to the position you were in before the accident to the fullest extent possible. The damages you can receive in a Cincinnati car accident claim can include:

Economic damages: These damages aim to compensate for actual financial losses and expenses resulting from the accident. Economic damages may include:

Medical expenses: This encompasses the costs of hospital stays, surgeries, diagnostic tests, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment related to your injuries.
Property damage: Compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the accident.
Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working or require you to take time off, you may be entitled to compensation for the wages you would have earned during that period.

2. Non-economic damages: Non-economic damages account for the intangible losses you experience as a result of the accident, such as:

Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages that account for physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and the impact on your overall quality of life.
Disability and disfigurement: Compensation for long-term or permanent disabilities, impairments, or disfigurement resulting from the accident
Loss of consortium: If the accident causes damage to your relationship with your spouse, you may be eligible for compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, and support.

3. Punitive damages: In exceptional cases where the at-fault party’s behavior was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages go beyond compensation and are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar conduct in the future.

The specific types and amount of damages you may receive depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the extent of your financial losses. An experienced car accident attorney or Cincinnati truck accident lawyer can assess the value of your claim based on these factors and fight for fair and just compensation on your behalf.

How Are Car Accident Claims Resolved?

A car accident claim can be resolved through various methods, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. The resolution method employed depends on the specific circumstances of your case, the willingness of the parties to negotiate, and the complexity of the legal issues involved.

Negotiation: In many cases, car accident claims are settled through negotiations between your attorney and the insurance company representing the at-fault party. Skilled negotiation can lead to a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your damages without the need for litigation.
Mediation: Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which a neutral third party, the mediator, facilitates negotiations between the parties involved in the dispute. The mediator helps both sides reach a mutually agreeable resolution. Mediation can be a cost-effective and time-efficient way to settle a car accident claim.
Arbitration: Arbitration is an alternative dispute resolution process where a neutral third party, the arbitrator, reviews the evidence presented by both parties and makes a binding decision. This process is typically less formal and less time-consuming than litigation.
Litigation: If negotiations or alternative dispute resolution methods fail to produce a satisfactory resolution, your attorney may recommend taking your case to court. Litigation involves filing a lawsuit and presenting your case to a judge or jury, who will make a final determination on liability and the amount of compensation to be awarded.

The appropriate method for resolving your car accident claim will depend on various factors, including the specific circumstances of your case, the strength of the evidence, and the preferences of the parties involved. Your Cincinnati car accident attorney will provide guidance and representation throughout the resolution process, ensuring your rights are protected and advocating for your best interests.

Timeline of a Car Accident Case

In Ohio, a typical car accident case can span between one to two years, although this timeframe can vary depending on various factors. Some cases may resolve faster in a settlement, but settling early might not always be in your best interest.

The initial stages of a car accident claim involve gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and consulting with experts to build a strong case. Subsequently, your attorney will likely enter into negotiations with the opposing insurance company in an attempt to reach a fair settlement. If negotiations break down or the insurance company’s offer is insufficient, then filing a lawsuit becomes the next step.

Once in the litigation phase, timelines can be extended due to court availability, the complexity of the case, and the willingness of both parties to negotiate. Discovery, depositions, and pre-trial motions can add months to the process. Your attorney can help you understand the different steps involved and work to resolve your case quickly while advocating for the highest possible settlement.

Do You Need an Attorney for Your Cincinnati Car Accident Claim?

While you have the option to pursue a car accident claim on your own, having an experienced car accident attorney on your side can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome. A skilled attorney can provide valuable assistance in the following ways:

Legal expertise: Navigating the legal system can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies and defense lawyers. An attorney has in-depth knowledge of the law and the procedural requirements necessary to pursue a car accident claim successfully.
Case evaluation: An attorney can assess the merits of your case, determine the potential value of your claim, and advise you on the best course of action. They will help you understand your rights and legal options, giving you the confidence to make informed decisions.
Gathering evidence: Building a strong case requires collecting and organizing evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions. An attorney has the resources and experience to gather this evidence effectively and present it in a compelling manner.
Negotiations with insurance companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as their primary goal is to minimize their financial liability. An attorney can handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your damages.
Litigation representation: If your case proceeds to litigation, an attorney will provide skilled representation in court. They will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

What Our Cincinnati Car Accident Attorneys Can Do For You

A Cincinnati car accident lawyer at Monge & Associates can provide comprehensive legal representation tailored to your specific needs. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and pursuing the just compensation you deserve. We will:

Thoroughly investigate your case: Our team will gather evidence, review accident reports, interview witnesses, consult with experts, and reconstruct the accident if necessary. We will leave no stone unturned to build a strong case on your behalf.
Establish liability: We will carefully analyze the circumstances of the accident to identify all potentially liable parties. Holding the responsible parties accountable is crucial to obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Calculate your damages: Our experienced attorneys will evaluate the full extent of your damages, considering your medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future costs. We will aim to maximize your recovery.
Handle negotiations: We are skilled negotiators and will engage with the liable insurance companies on your behalf to pursue a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your losses. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and interests.
Prepare your case for trial: If negotiations do not result in a fair settlement offer, we will be prepared to take your case to court. Our trial-ready attorneys will diligently prepare your case, present a compelling argument, and advocate fiercely for your rights before a judge and jury.

Cost of a Car Accident Lawyer

Many car accident victims do not hire legal representation because they believe an attorney’s services are too expensive. However, most car accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis to reduce clients’ out-of-pocket expenses.

Essentially, a contingency fee means that you don’t have to pay any upfront costs for the lawyer’s services. Instead, the attorney’s fees are contingent upon successfully securing compensation for you. In such arrangements, the lawyer takes a pre-determined percentage of the settlement or court award you receive.

This structure alleviates the financial burden on the client, allowing them to receive expert legal advice and representation without worrying about how to afford it. It also aligns the attorney’s interests with yours; they only get paid if you recover a settlement.

At Monge & Associates, our firm will clearly outline the percentage that constitutes the contingency fee during the initial consultation, ensuring full transparency.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Ohio Car Accident Claims?

In Ohio, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident. Insurance companies may have their own deadlines, but they often adhere to the state’s statute of limitations. Other claims, like lawsuits against government entities, may have a shorter deadline.

Failing to file within this time frame will likely result in your case being dismissed, and you will lose the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. To protect your right to financial recovery, don’t delay after an accident. Contact a Cincinnati car accident lawyer from Monge & Associates to identify your appropriate deadline.

Cincinnati Car Accident Attorney

Steps to Follow After a Car Crash

The moments following a car crash can be overwhelming and disorienting. Knowing the steps to take can help protect your rights and set yourself up for the best possible outcome. At Monge & Associates, we recommend that car accident victims in Cincinnati take the following steps after a car accident.

Call 911 and Report the Accident

First and foremost, call 911 to report the accident. This ensures that law enforcement arrives on the scene to document the incident, which can be invaluable when proving fault. A police report often serves as a key piece of evidence in personal injury claims, so make sure to contact law enforcement after the collision.

Seek Medical Treatment

Regardless of whether you think your injuries are minor, seek medical treatment immediately after the accident. Sometimes, injuries may not show any symptoms until hours or days following the collision.

Seeking treatment can help prevent potentially dangerous complications. Plus, a prompt medical evaluation provides a documented link between the accident and your injuries, which can be crucial when pursuing compensation.

Obtain Personal Information from Other Drivers

Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information with all drivers who were involved in the crash. This information will be crucial when filing insurance claims and potentially pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. When collecting these details, do not say anything to the drivers that could put your claim at risk; do not admit fault or downplay your injuries.

Document Evidence at the Scene

If you are able, take photographs and videos of the accident scene, your vehicle, other involved vehicles, and any visible injuries you sustained. Photos and videos can offer an irrefutable account of the damages and serve as strong evidence in your case.

Save All of Your Receipts and Records

Keep records of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, and any other expenses that you have incurred. These will serve as proof of your financial losses when you make a claim or go to court. Additionally, if you need to take time off work due to the crash, save all correspondence with your employer.

Collect Information from Witnesses

If there are witnesses who saw the accident happen, obtain their contact details. Witnesses can provide third-party accounts of the accident, which can be persuasive in establishing the fault of the other parties involved.

Do Not Speak with the At-Fault Driver’s Insurer

Avoid discussing the accident with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They may attempt to get you to make statements that could undermine your claim. Politely decline and inform them that your attorney will be in touch.

Reach Out to an Attorney from Monge & Associates

Legal expertise is vital in navigating a complex car accident claim. In these situations, you need a Cincinnati car accident lawyer on your side. By reaching out to an attorney early in the process, you stand a much better chance of securing the compensation you deserve. Schedule a consultation with Monge & Associates as soon as possible after the accident to discuss your claim.

Contact a Cincinnati Car Accident Attorney at Monge & Associates

If you have been involved in a car accident in Cincinnati, Ohio, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you may be facing. At Monge & Associates, our compassionate and skilled Cincinnati car accident lawyers are ready to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at 888-379-4165 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We will listen to your story, evaluate your case, and provide personalized guidance based on our extensive experience in Ohio car accident claims. Let us be your advocates and work diligently to secure the just recovery you deserve.

Cincinnati Crash Resources: How drunk driving fatalities in Ohio compare to the rest of the US

There were an estimated 42,795 fatalities due to motor vehicle crashes in 2022, down by 0.3% from the year prior, according to early estimates released in April 2023 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. While a reduction in crash-related deaths, even one as slight as this, is generally positive, the facts remain deeply concerning: Crash-related deaths rose more than 10% in 2021 and more than 7% the year before that, marking a disturbing trend leading into and persisting through the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2021, the most recent full year of traffic-death data available, drunken driving fatalities rose by 14% from 2020. Monge and Associates cited data from NHTSA to identify states with the highest rate of fatalities from car accidents involving at least one drunken driver. States are ranked by drunken driving fatalities per 100,000 residents. This rate is listed up to its first decimal point, but the exact ranking of states was determined from the total rate calculation, which did not result in ties.

A blood-alcohol content of .08 or higher is considered impaired. Judgment and driving abilities continue to worsen as BAC levels increase. Laws adopted between 1982 and 1997 throughout most of the U.S. successfully decreased the proportion of DUI-related motor vehicle fatalities in subsequent years.

Alternative transportation programs have also shown some promise in helping to deter drunken driving. Even in areas lacking robust transit options, recent studies suggest that alternatives such as rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can reduce drunken driving-related collisions.

Keep reading to see what percentage of car crash deaths in Ohio involved drunken driving and how it compares to the 49 other states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico. See the ranking of all 52 states and territories here.

Ohio by the numbers

#17 highest

– Drunken driving fatalities per 100k residents: 4.5 (531, 39% of all car crash fatalities)
– Fatalities involving driver with BAC 0.15 and above: 3.2 per 100K (373, 70.2% of all drunken driving fatalities)
– Change in drunken driving fatalities from 2012: 36.5% increase

Continue below to see drunk driving statistics of other states in your region.

Indiana by the numbers

#21 lowest

– Drunken driving fatalities per 100k residents: 3.4 (234, 25% of all car crash fatalities)
– Fatalities involving driver with BAC 0.15 and above: 2.2 per 100K (153, 65.4% of all drunken driving fatalities)
– Change in drunken driving fatalities from 2012: 1.7% increase

Kentucky by the numbers

#21 highest

– Drunken driving fatalities per 100k residents: 4.2 (190, 24% of all car crash fatalities)
– Fatalities involving driver with BAC 0.15 and above: 3.0 per 100K (136, 71.6% of all drunken driving fatalities)
– Change in drunken driving fatalities from 2012: 12.4% increase