Life can change instantly after an accident. Suddenly, you’re faced with physical pain, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about the future. If you’re in this situation, you don’t have to go through it alone. At The Henry Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming an injury can be, both emotionally and financially. Our goal is to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. We’ve helped countless individuals in Columbus recover after their accidents, and we’re ready to help you too.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney in Columbus
Personal injury law is complex, particularly within the state of Ohio. Each case varies, and having a local attorney who understands the unique legal landscape of Columbus can make all the difference. Insurance companies often aim to settle quickly for less than you deserve. With a skilled attorney from The Henry Law Firm on your side, you don’t have to face them alone. We know the tactics they use, and we will protect your rights to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible. For more insight into how personal injury cases work, check out our article on what to expect during your case.
Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle
At The Henry Law Firm, we represent clients in a wide range of personal injury cases. Some of the key areas in which we provide legal assistance include:
Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause everything from minor injuries to severe life-changing trauma. From whiplash to traumatic brain injury, we help victims navigate Ohio’s at-fault insurance system to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. We understand the tactics insurance companies use to undervalue claims and are ready to counter those strategies with aggressive representation. Learn more about common auto injuries in Ohio.
Trucking Accidents
Commercial trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, which increases the severity of injuries in a collision. Claims involving trucking accidents often require navigating federal regulations and identifying multiple liable parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, or even the vehicle manufacturer. Our firm is well-versed in the complexities of these cases, ensuring that every angle is explored for maximum compensation.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protective barriers for riders. Common injuries include road rash, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. We advocate for motorcyclists’ rights and hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.
Wrongful Death
Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is devastating. In wrongful death cases, we strive to secure justice and financial support for grieving families, including compensation for funeral expenses, lost earning capacity, and mental pain and suffering. Read more on who can file a wrongful death claim in Ohio.
Medical Negligence
When medical professionals fail to provide the standard of care, the consequences can be life-altering. Cases of medical negligence might involve misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or prescription mistakes. Our firm collaborates with medical experts to build strong cases against negligent healthcare providers, aiming to secure compensation for the victim’s physical and emotional suffering. Explore common errors that lead to claims.
Work Injuries
Beyond traditional workers’ compensation claims, workplace injury cases may involve third-party lawsuits. If a defective product or the negligence of someone other than your employer contributed to your injury, we help you pursue all avenues of legal recourse to maximize your compensation.
Dog Bites
Under Ohio law, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries their pets cause. Dog bite injuries can lead to severe physical and psychological trauma, including permanent disfigurement. We help victims secure compensation for medical treatment, emotional distress, and any long-term care needs.
Construction Accidents
Construction sites are inherently dangerous, with risks of falls, equipment failures, and exposure to hazardous materials. While workers’ compensation may cover some losses, we also pursue third-party claims against contractors, equipment manufacturers, or other parties responsible for unsafe conditions. Learn who is liable in a construction zone accident.
Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, or financial abuse of vulnerable residents. We hold negligent facilities accountable for their actions and ensure that your loved one receives justice and proper care. Find out more about the signs of elder abuse.
Slip and Fall
Slip and fall accidents can occur due to unsafe conditions like wet floors, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces. Property owners have a legal obligation to maintain safe premises. We help victims prove negligence to recover damages for medical bills, pain, and lost wages. Find out what needs to be proven in a slip-and-fall case.
Negligent Security
Negligent security claims arise when a property owner’s failure to provide adequate safety measures results in a crime or injury. We hold businesses accountable for their role in preventing harm, securing compensation for victims of assaults, robberies, or other violent acts.
Product Liability
When a defective product causes injury, holding the manufacturer or seller accountable is crucial. Whether the issue is a faulty medical device, an unsafe consumer product, or dangerous machinery, we fight for your right to compensation for all related damages.
Common Injuries in Personal Injury Cases
Accidents can cause a wide variety of injuries, impacting your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Here are some of the common injuries we handle:
Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): From mild concussions to severe brain damage, TBIs can lead to lasting cognitive impairment, memory issues, and emotional distress. We work with medical professionals to substantiate your claim and highlight the long-term impact.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries often result in partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, and the need for lifelong medical care. Compensation typically includes future medical expenses and adaptive equipment costs.
Broken Bones and Fractures: Broken bones, and fractures, can range from minor breaks to those requiring surgical intervention, affecting your mobility and ability to work. We ensure that all related expenses are included in your claim.
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Common in car accidents, these injuries can be hard to diagnose but cause significant pain and require medical documentation for fair compensation.
Burns, Lacerations, and Scarring: These injuries often require extensive treatment, including reconstructive surgery and therapy, and can lead to permanent disfigurement or emotional trauma.
Emotional/Psychological Trauma: Conditions like PTSD or anxiety can significantly affect your quality of life. We document these non-visible injuries to seek appropriate compensation for emotional suffering.
Types of Damages You Can Recover
If you have suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to several types of damages:
Economic Damages: These include tangible financial losses such as past and future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and any future loss of earning capacity. Economic damages also cover property damage costs like car repairs in an auto accident claim. Our goal is to ensure that every foreseeable expense related to your injury is included in the claim so you are not left covering any out-of-pocket costs.
Non-Economic Damages: These refer to more subjective losses that do not have a direct monetary value but significantly impact your life, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Non-economic damages take into account how the injury affects your daily life, relationships, hobbies, and your overall sense of well-being. Ohio law places caps on certain non-economic damages, but we will fight to secure the maximum allowable under the law.
Punitive Damages: Unlike compensatory damages, punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant for especially reckless or malicious behavior and to deter similar actions in the future. These damages are not awarded in every case but may be possible if the defendant’s conduct was grossly negligent or intentional. For more information about punitive damages in Ohio, see our article on exploring punitive damages in Ohio.
Understanding Personal Injury Claims in Ohio
Ohio’s personal injury laws involve several critical components that can significantly affect your claim:
Statute of Limitations: In Ohio, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the injury. Missing this deadline generally means forfeiting your right to seek compensation. There are some exceptions, such as when the injury is not immediately apparent, but these are rare. We always recommend consulting with an attorney as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues with filing deadlines.
Comparative Negligence: Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that your compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you will not be able to recover any damages. This rule underscores the importance of building a solid case that minimizes your share of the fault. Learn more about comparative fault in personal injury cases.
The Personal Injury Claims Process
The process of pursuing a personal injury claim can be overwhelming, but understanding each step can help ease the stress:
Initial Consultation: During your free consultation, we will listen to the details of your case, answer your questions, and provide you with an honest assessment of your legal options. We will explain your rights and the potential value of your claim so you can make an informed decision.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Our team will gather all relevant evidence to support your case, including medical records, police reports, photographs, witness statements, and expert opinions. This comprehensive approach is designed to build a compelling narrative that demonstrates the extent of your injuries and the liability of the responsible party.
Damages Calculation: We carefully calculate both economic and non-economic damages, factoring in all medical expenses, lost income, future rehabilitation costs, and the impact on your quality of life. Our goal is to ensure that no aspect of your suffering goes uncompensated.
Negotiation: Our attorneys will handle all communications with insurance adjusters and use our negotiation expertise to seek a fair settlement. We prepare extensively for negotiations, presenting evidence in a way that maximizes the settlement offer, but we are also ready to reject lowball offers and proceed to court if necessary.
Trial Preparation and Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we will take your case to trial. Our firm has a strong track record of success in the courtroom, where we present your case with a focus on securing the maximum compensation you deserve. We guide you through every step of the trial process, keeping you informed and confident in your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after an accident?
First, ensure your safety and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately noticeable. Document the accident scene by taking photos and gathering witness contact information. Report the incident to the relevant authorities and contact a personal injury lawyer to understand your legal rights and options.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Ohio?
Generally, Ohio law provides a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, starting from the date of the injury. There are some exceptions depending on the specifics of your case, such as discovery of hidden injuries, but it is crucial to act promptly to preserve your legal rights.
What happens if I am partially at fault for the accident?
Ohio’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover damages as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your total award will be reduced by 20%. This makes it essential to work with an attorney who can help minimize your share of liability.
What kind of compensation can I expect from my injury claim?
Compensation in a personal injury case typically includes economic damages like medical expenses and lost wages, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering and emotional distress. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious.
Do I need a lawyer if the insurance company offers a settlement?
Yes, you should always consult with a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offers from an insurance company. Insurance companies often offer settlements that are far lower than what you deserve. A lawyer can help negotiate a higher settlement or take your case to court if necessary.
How long does it take to resolve a personal injury case?
The timeline for resolving a personal injury case can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether or not the case goes to trial. Some cases may settle in a few months, while others could take a year or more to reach a conclusion. We strive to handle each case as efficiently as possible without compromising on the quality of the settlement or verdict.
Contact The Henry Law Firm Today
The Henry Law Firm provides personalized legal representation with a proven track record of successful case outcomes. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys are prepared to handle all aspects of your case, from negotiations to trial, to achieve the best possible results.
If you or a loved one has been injured in Columbus, don’t wait to seek the legal help you deserve. Contact The Henry Law Firm today for a free consultation. Call us at (440) 291-0937 or visit our Contact Page to schedule your case evaluation. Let us help you secure the justice and compensation you are entitled to.
