America's Premier Law Firms

Negligence and Causes of Car Crashes, Why You Need the Best Law Firm on Your Side

​

Negligence means fault. There are many reasons why someone causes an accident, and sometimes more than one reason is in play. Here are some examples of common car accident causes:

​

• Driver fatigue

• Driver distraction, such as texting, talking on a phone, eating or drinking while driving, adjusting the radio, or having conversations with passengers

• Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol

• Speeding and/or other reckless driving

• Failure to obey traffic laws, such as running a red light or stop sign

• Lane-change accidents, such as crossing left of center into oncoming traffic or changing lanes without warning

• Weather-related crashes

• Road construction

• Inexperienced driver, such as a teenager

 

In a car crash case, lawyers conduct a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the accident. They use evidence to prove the other driver was negligent, and then work to recover compensation for the damages and injuries caused to you in the accident. This is called a settlement.

​

While some people try to handle cases like this on their own, using an experienced car accident lawyer is incredibly important. Insurance adjusters have the insurance company’s best interests at heart (which is to keep costs as low as possible), along with representing the interests of their insured motorist. They are not there to look out for you and yours.

​

For example, did you know that you have up to two years after an accident in Ohio to file a personal injury lawsuit? This is the type of valuable insight you get when you work with an experienced car accident lawyer.

In Ohio, you have up to TWO YEARS after an accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

 

Injuries and Losses

​

While some accidents may seem minor at first, such as a “fender bender” with minimal visible damage, there can be hidden damages to both you and your car from even a minor crash. Of course, major crashes can carry devastating personal health consequences, including and up to death and dismemberment.

 

Car Crash Injuries

​

Common Ohio car accident injuries include:

​

• Lacerations (cuts), bruises, and scrapes

• Sprains, strains, and broken bones

• Head, neck, brain, and spinal cord injuries, which can include:

  • Whiplash

  • Traumatic brain injury

  • Temporary or permanent paralysis

  • Paraplegia, quadriplegia

​​

Automobile Damage

​

In addition to personal injury, there is damage done to your car. While most insurance companies will pay to repair or replace your vehicle, if you try to handle your case yourself, the other party’s insurance company decides the value and method of your repairs.

​

Mental and Emotional Damages

​

Finally, there can be major mental or emotional losses due to injuries sustained in the accident. An experienced car accident lawyer knows how to calculate the value of these losses, which can include problems like depression, anxiety, inability to work, or to perform marital duties, or to be able to care for children, and more.

Physical, emotional/mental, and vehicle damage losses are all a part of determining your total Ohio personal injury case settlement amount.

​

What Should You Do After A Car Crash in Ohio?

After any car accident, the first thing you should do is call the police. They will take a report and document details of the scene of the accident that will be important to your case later on. If you are physically able to do so, try to obtain the name, contact information, and insurance information for any other drivers involved in the accident, as well as any witnesses.

​

Taking care of yourself after an accident is important. Seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible, even if you think nothing is wrong. If you don’t feel the need to go to the emergency room, go to an urgent care center or see your doctor as soon as possible. The reason is that immediately after an incident like an accident, our body's “fight or flight” response kicks in, and there is a rush of adrenaline that can mask physical problems and pain. Always get checked out at a medical facility after an accident, even one you think is minor. Keep every single receipt, printout, and copies of discharge papers, after-visit summaries, and any other paperwork for all visits and costs related to medical care, treatment, medication, equipment, and prescriptions related to the accident. Document any time you need to take off of work to attend medical appointments or physical therapy. All of this documentation will be an important part of your case.

​

From a few hours to a few days after an accident, you will be contacted by the other party’s insurance adjuster. We strongly recommend you do not speak to them. Their best interest is the other party, no matter what they might say. Instead, you should seek legal counsel as soon as possible after the accident, and inform anyone who calls, texts, or emails you about the case that you are already working with a car accident lawyer or law firm. Accidents are public records. Many law firms scour these records daily and contact victims to try to get their business. But choosing the right law firm should be done with care.

​

Don't wait. We're ready to fight.

​

Ohio Car Crash Injury Law Firm

​

You want an Ohio lawyer who has extensive knowledge of all state traffic accident laws. When you talk to a car accident lawyer, don’t be afraid to ask questions about their experience and how many years they have been working on personal injury cases. They should also know applicable, additional laws in your particular city, and demonstrate a familiarity with the municipal court systems, judges, and operations. For example, Columbus, Ohio has its own Traffic Code laws and regulations, as does Cleveland.

​

We have offices in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Canton, or Akron, Ohio.

​

Contact Slater & Zurz as soon as possible.

​

Our car accident lawyers have an impressive track record and a very high win rate.

​

What makes us different? Our concern about our clients and dedication to justice. Car accident cases can be very complex and take many months or years to resolve. We pride ourselves on our unstoppable work ethic and personalized approach to service.

​

All of our Ohio car accident cases are handled on a contingency basis. What that means is we don’t get paid until and unless you do. You can reach Slater & Zurz 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling #4Law (#4529) from any cell phone.

​

Client Reviews

​

Joann K.
“Mr. Slater and Rick Zurz are lawyers who are caring, courteous, and professional. Twenty – six years ago they represented my son in a head injury case. I was pleased with the results, that provided for his future. When this catastrophic auto accident occurred I recalled their excellent management of the previous case and contracted them again. I recommend them if you are looking for good honest lawyers.”

​

Whitney T.
“I couldn’t have picked a better law firm than Slater and Zurz. They were friendly and helpful from the first call. They ask what you need and find the perfect attorney for you. Silas Pisani managed our case from start to finish. He is knowledgeable, dedicated, and goes the extra mile to make sure he handles everything for you. We would have never made it without his advice and expertise. We were lucky to have such a great attorney. Would highly recommend him!!”

​

Dawna M.
“John Lynette is whom I had for both of my, not at fault vehicle accidents. He definitely got the job done! Was VERY thorough, fair, and honest through the process of each vehicle accident! If I had questions throughout the process, he would answer them with no problem and with ease! In my opinion, he’s the best!