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Author: Duncan Selph

Surviving a Catastrophic Injury: Legal Advice and Resources

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

Catastrophic injuries are life-altering events that often result in severe, long-term impacts on a person’s physical and mental health. Survivors must navigate a challenging path to recovery that often includes substantial medical bills, lifestyle adaptations, and emotional distress. At SELPH LAW, we are committed to standing beside catastrophic injury survivors and their families. This article provides an overview of catastrophic injuries and the legal resources available to help survivors rebuild their lives.

Understanding Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries are those that have a profound impact on an individual’s life, often resulting in permanent disability or disfigurement. These injuries can include spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, severe burns, loss of limbs, and others. They can result from a variety of incidents such as car accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and more.

Legal Support for Catastrophic Injury Survivors

  1. Assessment of Damages: At SELPH LAW, we begin by conducting a comprehensive assessment of your damages, factoring in both current and future medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other potential costs associated with your injury.
  2. Claim Preparation and Filing: We work closely with you to prepare and file your claim. Our firm collaborates with medical professionals, life care planners, and other experts to build a strong, compelling case on your behalf.
  3. Representation and Litigation: We negotiate with the opposing party and their insurance company to secure a fair settlement. If necessary, our team is prepared to take your case to court to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
  4. Post-Settlement Support: Our commitment to our clients does not end when a settlement is reached. We continue to offer advice and support as you navigate the aftermath of your injury and the changes to your lifestyle.

Resources for Catastrophic Injury Survivors

Besides legal assistance, several resources can provide additional support for catastrophic injury survivors. These include medical professionals, mental health counselors, rehabilitation therapists, support groups, and non-profit organizations dedicated to assisting individuals with specific types of injuries.

Conclusion

Surviving a catastrophic injury requires strength, courage, and determination. At SELPH LAW, we are dedicated to easing this journey by providing robust legal support. We strive to ensure you receive the compensation necessary to afford quality medical care, make necessary adaptations to your lifestyle, and secure your future.

Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for legal decisions.

The Role of Insurance Companies in Personal Injury Cases: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

In personal injury cases, insurance companies often play a crucial role in determining the outcome of your claim. They are typically the entities responsible for compensating you for your injuries. At SELPH LAW, we understand the intricacies of dealing with insurance companies, and we leverage this knowledge to advocate for our clients’ best interests. In this article, we’ll outline the role of insurance companies in personal injury cases and offer insights into how we navigate this often complex landscape.

The Role of Insurance Companies in Personal Injury Cases

When a personal injury claim is filed, the at-fault party’s insurance company usually gets involved. Their role is to handle claims made against their policyholder and pay out any damages or compensation. However, it’s essential to understand that insurance companies, like any business, aim to minimize their expenses. Therefore, they will often try to reduce the amount of compensation or deny the claim altogether.

Navigating the Insurance Landscape

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging due to their vast resources, legal teams, and motivation to minimize payouts. However, at SELPH LAW, we know how to navigate this landscape effectively:

  1. Claim Preparation: We meticulously prepare your claim, ensuring it is backed by solid evidence, thorough documentation, and expert testimonies if necessary.
  2. Negotiation: We employ skilled negotiation techniques to argue for a fair settlement on your behalf. Our extensive experience allows us to counter common tactics used by insurance companies to undervalue claims.
  3. Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our litigation team is experienced and committed to fighting for your rights and interests.

Understanding Your Rights

Remember, you have the right to legal representation when dealing with insurance companies. You are not obligated to accept the first settlement offer, and you have the right to pursue a fair amount that adequately compensifies your damages.

At SELPH LAW, we make it our mission to ensure that insurance companies fulfill their obligations to their policyholders and accident victims. We strive to get you the compensation you deserve, even in the face of insurance companies’ resistance.

Conclusion

Dealing with insurance companies in personal injury cases can be a daunting task. But you don’t have to face it alone. At SELPH LAW, our experienced team of personal injury attorneys is here to guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are upheld and your interests are protected.

Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for legal decisions.

Road to Recovery: Understanding and Navigating Personal Injury Rehabilitation

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

Following a personal injury, the road to recovery can seem daunting. The physical, emotional, and financial strain can be overwhelming. However, with the right guidance and resources, the path to healing can be less strenuous. At SELPH LAW, we not only advocate for our clients’ legal rights but also assist them in navigating the complexities of personal injury rehabilitation. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of rehabilitation and offer tips to make the journey smoother.

Understanding Personal Injury Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation after a personal injury is a comprehensive process aimed at restoring the injured person’s physical and mental capabilities. Depending on the nature of the injury, it can involve various types of therapy and treatment, from physical and occupational therapy to counseling and pain management. The goal is to help the person regain their independence and quality of life.

Role of SELPH LAW in Your Rehabilitation Journey

As personal injury attorneys, we understand that our role extends beyond the courtroom. We recognize that our clients need more than just legal representation – they need comprehensive support to navigate their rehabilitation process. Here’s how we can help:

  1. Resource Guidance: We can guide you to suitable rehabilitation facilities and professionals in Columbus, Ohio. We’ve built relationships with trusted healthcare providers who can provide the care and support you need.
  2. Insurance Negotiation: We handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure that your rehabilitation costs are covered as part of your compensation.
  3. Pursuit of Full Compensation: We fight to ensure that the cost of current and future rehabilitation services is factored into your compensation. We understand that recovery may be a long-term process, and we aim to secure the resources you’ll need.
  4. Moral Support: We’re there for you throughout your rehabilitation process, providing moral and emotional support. At SELPH LAW, we treat our clients like family, and your well-being is our priority.

Navigating the Rehabilitation Process

Here are a few tips to help you navigate the personal injury rehabilitation process:

  1. Follow Medical Advice: It’s important to follow the treatment plan set by your healthcare provider diligently. This will not only aid your recovery but also strengthen your personal injury claim.
  2. Keep Documentation: Keep detailed records of all your treatment sessions, medications, and any other rehabilitation-related expenses. These records can help in calculating your damages.
  3. Be Patient: Recovery can be a slow process. It’s important to be patient with yourself and remember that progress may be gradual.
  4. Stay Positive: A positive mindset can significantly influence your recovery. Engage in activities that uplift your mood, and don’t hesitate to seek emotional support if needed.

Conclusion

At SELPH LAW, we understand the toll a personal injury can take on your life. Our mission is to provide comprehensive support, helping you through not only the legal process but also the physical and emotional journey towards recovery. As you navigate the challenging road of rehabilitation, know that we’re with you every step of the way.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for any legal decisions.

Navigating Workers’ Compensation Laws: A Comprehensive Guide by SELPH LAW

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

Workplace injuries can have significant impacts on an individual’s health, livelihood, and quality of life. Thankfully, workers’ compensation laws exist to protect employees who are injured on the job. These laws provide a safety net, ensuring workers receive necessary medical treatment, compensation for lost wages, and more. At SELPH LAW, we specialize in guiding injured workers through the complexities of workers’ compensation laws. In this blog, we aim to provide a detailed overview of these critical protections.

The Basics of Workers’ Compensation Laws

At the heart of workers’ compensation laws is the concept that workers should be protected if they are injured while performing their job duties. Most employers are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which provides benefits to injured workers regardless of who was at fault for the injury. Key aspects of these laws include:

  1. No-Fault System: Unlike personal injury cases, workers’ compensation does not require the injured party to prove that the employer was negligent. As long as the injury occurred in the course of employment, workers are typically eligible for benefits.
  2. Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation covers all necessary and reasonable medical treatment related to the work injury. This includes emergency care, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and more.
  3. Lost Wages: If an injury causes a worker to miss work, workers’ compensation provides wage loss benefits. The exact amount varies, but it’s typically a percentage of the worker’s average weekly wage.
  4. Permanent Disability Benefits: If a work injury leads to permanent disability, whether total or partial, the worker may be eligible for additional benefits. The amount often depends on the nature and extent of the disability.
  5. Death Benefits: If a worker dies as a result of a work-related injury or illness, workers’ compensation provides benefits to the surviving family members, such as a spouse or children.

Understanding Your Rights

Workers have rights under workers’ compensation laws. These include the right to file a claim for injuries or illnesses related to work, the right to see a doctor and receive medical treatment, and the right to return to work if medically able. If a claim is denied, workers also have the right to appeal the decision.

Navigating Claims and Appeals

Filing a workers’ compensation claim involves reporting the injury to your employer, seeking medical treatment, and completing a claim form. The process can be complex, and the importance of each step cannot be overstated.

If a claim is denied, workers have the right to appeal the decision. Appeals processes can be complex and often involve hearings before a workers’ compensation judge. Legal representation, such as that provided by SELPH LAW, is crucial during appeals to effectively advocate for the injured worker’s rights.

Conclusion

While workers’ compensation laws provide essential protections for injured workers, navigating these laws and the claims process can be complex. At SELPH LAW, we are dedicated to guiding injured workers through every step, from filing a claim to appealing denials. Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in the intricacies of workers’ compensation laws, ensuring our clients receive the benefits they’re entitled to. If you’ve been injured at work and need legal support, we’re here to help.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for any legal decisions.

The Personal Injury Claims Process: A Typical Timeline at SELPH LAW

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

If you’ve suffered a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence, understanding the claims process timeline can help set your expectations for how long it might take to resolve your case. At SELPH LAW, your dedicated personal injury law firm in Columbus, Ohio, we guide you through each step of the legal journey, providing clarity on the timeline and what to anticipate. This article presents an in-depth guide to the typical timeline of a personal injury claim at SELPH LAW.

Please note that each case is unique, and the exact timeline can vary depending on the specifics of your situation.

Phase 1: Consultation and Investigation

Timeline: 1-4 weeks

Your journey with SELPH LAW begins with a free initial consultation, where we review the facts of your case and determine its potential. Once you decide to work with us, we commence a comprehensive investigation to gather all necessary evidence, such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements. This phase also involves identifying the liable parties and notifying them of your intent to file a claim.

Phase 2: Medical Treatment and Evaluation

Timeline: Several weeks to several months

Before we can accurately value your claim, it’s vital to understand the full extent of your injuries, which is typically determined at the conclusion of your medical treatment. This period varies widely depending on the severity of your injuries. During this time, we stay in regular contact with you and your medical providers to monitor your recovery progress.

Phase 3: Demand and Negotiation

Timeline: 1-3 months

Once your medical treatment concludes and we’ve gathered all necessary evidence, we prepare a detailed demand package to send to the at-fault party’s insurance company. This package outlines your injuries, treatment, and other losses, backed by relevant documentation.

The insurance company typically responds to the demand letter within a few weeks. This starts the negotiation phase, where both sides discuss the claim’s worth to arrive at a mutually agreeable settlement. This phase can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your case.

Phase 4: Lawsuit and Discovery

Timeline: 6 months to 2 years

If we can’t reach a fair settlement during negotiations, we will file a lawsuit on your behalf. The discovery phase follows, where both sides exchange information relevant to the case. This process can be lengthy, involving written questions (interrogatories), document requests, and depositions.

Phase 5: Mediation and Trial

Timeline: Several weeks to several months

Before proceeding to trial, both parties often attempt mediation—a process where a neutral third party helps negotiate a potential settlement. If mediation is unsuccessful, your case proceeds to trial. A trial can last a day, a week, or longer, depending on the complexity of your case.

Phase 6: Collection and Conclusion

Timeline: 1-6 weeks

Once a settlement is reached or a court verdict is given, the insurance company typically issues payment within 30 days. We deduct any legal fees and expenses from the settlement amount and provide you with the balance, marking the end of your personal injury claim journey.

Conclusion

Navigating a personal injury claim can be a lengthy and complex process. At SELPH LAW, we understand the challenges this journey can present and stand ready to guide you every step of the way. Although the timeline can be extensive, our dedicated attorneys in Columbus, Ohio, are committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve, no matter how long it takes.

If you need assistance with a personal injury claim, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at SELPH LAW. Your journey to justice starts here.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for any legal decisions.

SELPH LAW: Our Approach to Handling Personal Injury Cases in Columbus, Ohio

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

At SELPH LAW, our commitment to each client goes beyond just handling their case; we strive to provide comprehensive legal services paired with compassion and understanding. We recognize that the aftermath of a personal injury can be challenging, and our aim is to navigate these turbulent waters with you. This article provides an in-depth look into how we at SELPH LAW handle personal injury cases in Columbus, Ohio.

Our Client-Centered Approach

  1. Initial Consultation: Our process starts with a free, no-obligation consultation where we listen to your story, understand the circumstances of your injury, and discuss the potential merits of your case. This allows us to give an initial evaluation and outline the possible legal pathways available.
  2. In-depth Case Analysis: If we determine that you have a viable claim, we commence a thorough investigation. This involves analyzing police reports, medical records, witness statements, and, where necessary, working with accident reconstruction experts. We leave no stone unturned when it comes to gathering evidence to support your claim.
  3. Developing a Legal Strategy: With a solid understanding of the facts, we develop a tailored legal strategy. This is designed to suit your unique circumstances and is centered on securing the maximum compensation available under Ohio law.

Guiding You Through The Process

  1. Filing Your Personal Injury Claim: We prepare and file all necessary legal documents on your behalf. Our experienced attorneys meticulously craft these to present a compelling case that captures the full extent of your injuries and associated damages.
  2. Negotiation and Litigation: The team at SELPH LAW is highly skilled in negotiation tactics, often securing favorable settlements without the need to go to trial. However, if the insurance companies or responsible parties are not willing to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared and equipped to take your case to court.
  3. Advocacy and Support: Throughout the process, we provide consistent support and communication. We keep you updated on the progress of your case, and we’re always available to answer your questions or concerns. We view our clients as partners in the journey to justice, and we believe that keeping you informed empowers you in this partnership.

Respecting Your Recovery

At SELPH LAW, we recognize that recovery extends beyond just physical healing. As such, we strive to alleviate the financial burdens associated with personal injury cases.

  1. Contingency Fee Basis: We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means we only get paid if we win your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal fees.
  2. Helping You Navigate Medical Bills: We assist our clients in understanding and handling medical bills and insurance issues that arise during the recovery process. Our aim is to ensure that the focus remains on your healing, not the paperwork.
  3. Seeking Maximum Compensation: We fight tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for our clients. This includes medical costs, loss of income, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

Conclusion

At SELPH LAW, our approach to handling personal injury cases is underpinned by diligence, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice. We believe that everyone deserves the highest standard of representation, regardless of their situation.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Columbus, Ohio, reach out to us at SELPH LAW. We’re here to stand with you, fight for you, and help you navigate the complexities of your personal injury case.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for any legal decisions.

Slip and Fall Accidents: Common Causes and Legal Remedies

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

Slip and fall accidents are surprisingly common and can result in severe injuries, from fractures and concussions to long-term disabilities. Navigating the legal path post such incidents can be daunting, especially when grappling with physical recovery. At SELPH LAW, we understand the complexity of these cases and strive to support victims through the legal process. This blog post aims to shed light on the common causes of slip and fall accidents and the legal remedies available.

Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents

A slip and fall accident refers to situations where an individual slips, trips, or falls due to a hazardous condition on someone else’s property. The property owner’s negligence to maintain a safe environment often forms the crux of these cases.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere and are commonly caused by:

  1. Wet or slippery floors: This includes situations where floors are wet due to spillage, cleaning, or weather conditions, and no warning signs are posted.
  2. Uneven surfaces: Uneven sidewalks, potholes, or loose floorboards can lead to tripping accidents.
  3. Inadequate lighting: Poor lighting can make it difficult to see obstacles, leading to tripping or slipping accidents.
  4. Cluttered walkways: Debris, cables, or other objects left on walkways pose tripping hazards.
  5. Broken or missing handrails: In staircases, missing or broken handrails can result in severe fall accidents.

Legal Remedies

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your injuries. The legal remedies typically include:

  1. Medical expenses: This includes past, present, and future medical costs related to the accident.
  2. Lost wages: If you had to take time off work due to the accident, you could be compensated for lost income.
  3. Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
  4. Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injury prevents you from enjoying activities that you previously engaged in, you may receive compensation.

Role of SELPH LAW

Navigating a slip and fall claim can be complex, but SELPH LAW can provide the necessary guidance:

  1. Case Evaluation: We will evaluate the circumstances of your accident and determine the viability of your claim.
  2. Evidence Gathering: We’ll help gather essential evidence, including accident reports, witness testimonies, and medical records.
  3. Negotiation and Litigation: We negotiate with insurance companies to pursue a fair settlement. If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Conclusion

Slip and fall accidents can have significant impacts on your life. It’s important to understand your legal rights and remedies in these situations. At SELPH LAW, we’re committed to guiding you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you secure fair compensation for your injuries.

Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for legal decisions.

Understanding Ohio’s Personal Injury Laws: A Comprehensive Guide by SELPH LAW

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Ohio, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights. Navigating the intricacies of Ohio’s personal injury laws can seem daunting. That’s why at SELPH LAW, we’re committed to providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your case. This comprehensive guide covers the fundamentals of personal injury law in Ohio, including time limits for filing a lawsuit, determining fault, and potential damages you may be able to recover.

Statute of Limitations in Ohio

First and foremost, it’s important to know that in Ohio, you have a limited timeframe to file a personal injury lawsuit. Known as the statute of limitations, this law gives you two years from the date of the injury to bring a case to court. If you don’t file within this period, you may be barred from pursuing compensation for your injuries. Exceptions to this rule are rare, and only a qualified attorney can determine if any apply to your case.

Determining Fault: Modified Comparative Negligence

Ohio follows a system of modified comparative negligence, which means that even if you are partially at fault for your injury, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. Importantly, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering any damages at all. At SELPH LAW, we fight diligently to present a strong case for our clients, working to minimize any assigned fault and maximize compensation.

Damages in Personal Injury Cases

In a personal injury case, damages are meant to financially compensate you for the losses you’ve suffered due to your injury. In Ohio, these are typically divided into three categories:

  1. Economic Damages: These are direct financial losses resulting from your injury, such as medical bills and lost wages.
  2. Non-Economic Damages: These include more subjective losses, like pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish. While these damages can be challenging to quantify, they are often a significant component of a personal injury claim.
  3. Punitive Damages: These are awarded in cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious or malicious. They are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from similar behavior.

Product Liability Laws in Ohio

If you’ve been injured by a defective product in Ohio, you may have a product liability claim. Ohio law provides for strict liability in these cases, meaning you do not need to prove negligence on the part of the manufacturer or seller—only that the product was defective and caused your injury. However, Ohio does impose a cap on non-economic damages in product liability cases, another reason why having skilled representation from a firm like SELPH LAW can make a significant difference in your case.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of Ohio’s personal injury laws can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At SELPH LAW, we are dedicated to providing expert representation for injury victims throughout Columbus, Ohio. We have a deep understanding of Ohio’s personal injury laws, and we work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for our clients. If you’ve been injured and need legal guidance, we’re here to help.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for any legal decisions.

The Success Rate of SELPH LAW: Delivering Victory in Personal Injury Cases

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

When choosing a personal injury law firm, one of the key factors to consider is the firm’s track record. At SELPH LAW, we understand the significance of this metric and are proud to present our stellar success rate as a testament to our dedication, professionalism, and client-oriented approach. This blog post will explore the success rate of SELPH LAW, how we define success, and our commitment to achieving the best outcomes for our clients in Columbus, Ohio.

Understanding SELPH LAW’s Success Rate

When we talk about a success rate, it refers to the percentage of cases in which we’ve achieved a favorable outcome for our clients. A “favorable outcome” can include cases where we have secured a settlement or won a lawsuit that meets or exceeds our client’s goals.

At SELPH LAW, we maintain a high success rate across a wide range of personal injury cases, including auto accidents, workplace injuries, slip and fall accidents, product liability, and more. While specific numbers can fluctuate year by year due to a myriad of factors, we consistently strive to maximize our client victories, affirming our commitment to excellence.

How We Define Success at SELPH LAW

At SELPH LAW, our definition of success extends beyond mere statistics. We believe that true success is measured by our ability to meet and exceed our clients’ expectations. Here’s how we define success:

  1. Client Satisfaction: We prioritize our clients’ satisfaction above all else. We gauge our success not just by the favorable outcomes we secure but also by our clients’ satisfaction with our service, our communication, and our dedication to their case.
  2. Achieving Client Goals: Each client comes to us with unique goals and expectations. Whether it’s securing a certain compensation amount, holding the at-fault party accountable, or gaining closure, we consider achieving these objectives as markers of success.
  3. Holistic Approach: We don’t just focus on the legal aspect of personal injury cases. We also consider it a success when we’ve supported our clients emotionally and helped them navigate through their recovery process.

The SELPH LAW Commitment

Our impressive success rate is a testament to the commitment we have to each of our clients:

  1. Professional Expertise: Our team of experienced attorneys has in-depth knowledge of personal injury law, which enables us to craft strong cases for our clients.
  2. Client-Centric Approach: We take the time to understand our clients’ unique circumstances, needs, and goals, which helps us to tailor a strategy specifically designed to achieve the best possible outcome for them.
  3. Aggressive Advocacy: We are tenacious advocates for our clients. Whether we’re negotiating with insurance companies or representing clients in court, we fight hard to secure the justice our clients deserve.
  4. Transparent Communication: We keep our clients informed every step of the way, ensuring they understand their case’s progress and have a realistic expectation of the potential outcomes.

Conclusion

The success rate of SELPH LAW is a reflection of our dedication, client-centric approach, and legal expertise. We are proud of the results we’ve achieved for our clients and the high level of satisfaction they express with our services. Our goal is to continue building on this track record of success and delivering the justice and compensation our clients deserve.

If you’re in Columbus, Ohio, and need a personal injury attorney with a proven record of success, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at SELPH LAW. We’re here to stand with you, fight for you, and add your case to our long list of victories.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for any legal decisions.

Cycling Accidents in Columbus, Ohio: Your Legal Rights and Remedies

Posted on by Duncan Selph

Introduction

As a city with a growing number of cyclists, Columbus, Ohio, has seen an increase in cycling-related accidents. Whether you cycle for transportation, exercise, or leisure, it’s vital to understand your rights and the legal remedies available if you’re involved in a cycling accident. In this blog post, SELPH LAW provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the legal complexities surrounding cycling accidents in Columbus, Ohio.

Understanding Cycling Laws in Ohio

Ohio law treats cyclists as they would any other motorist. That means you have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. You’re required to obey all traffic laws, signals, and signs. However, this also means that if a motorist injures you, you have a right to seek compensation for your injuries.

Steps to Take After a Cycling Accident

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if you think you’re not seriously injured, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries might not be apparent immediately following the accident.
  2. Report the Accident: If you’re able to, call the police and file a report. This report can be crucial in establishing what happened and who was at fault.
  3. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your bicycle, any vehicles involved, and your injuries. Collect names and contact information of any witnesses.
  4. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company. Be careful not to admit fault or give detailed statements without speaking to an attorney.
  5. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: Before accepting any settlements, speak with an attorney who specializes in personal injury law. They can help you understand your rights and what compensation you may be entitled to.

Your Rights and Legal Remedies

As a cyclist injured due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. At SELPH LAW, we can help you:

  • File a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance company
  • Negotiate a fair settlement
  • File a lawsuit if necessary

Conclusion

Navigating the aftermath of a cycling accident can be a daunting process. But remember, you don’t have to do it alone. The team at SELPH LAW is here to help. We’re committed to protecting your rights and helping you obtain the compensation you need to recover and get back on your bike.

Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a professional attorney for legal decisions.