Getting Back on Your Feet After a Crash

A car accident can disrupt every part of life. Even when vehicle damage seems manageable, injuries often tell a different story. Many people experience delayed pain, concussions, back or neck injuries, and mobility issues that make work, parenting, and daily routines far more difficult than expected.

At the same time, insurance companies move fast. They may request recorded statements, push early settlement offers, or describe injuries as “minor” before the full impact is clear. Working with an experienced lawyer can help slow the process down, protect your rights, and ensure decisions are made with your long-term recovery in mind.

The Stuckey Firm is a client-first personal injury firm focused on serious injury cases. Our team includes car accident injury lawyers in Columbus, OH who work with you, not just for you, and build each claim around your injuries, your goals, and what fair recovery looks like in your life. Our goal is to remove the overwhelm and protect your recovery.

What Is a Car Accident Claim?

A car accident claim is a personal injury claim that seeks compensation when another driver or party causes a crash through negligence. These claims may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and long-term impairment. A Columbus car crash lawyer helps ensure the claim reflects the full impact of the injury, not just the initial diagnosis.

Ohio traffic and civil liability laws shape how fault is evaluated and how compensation is pursued. The Ohio Revised Code provides the legal framework governing negligence and motor vehicle liability. For consumer guidance related to insurance claims and coverage issues, the Ohio Department of Insurance offers public resources that can help clarify how auto insurance works in Ohio.

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Available 24/7 (614) 349-1975

The Benefits of Working With a Car Accident Lawyer

  • A Stronger Claim Built on Evidence - A car wreck attorney in Columbus helps gather medical records, crash reports, and proof of financial loss so the claim reflects what actually happened, not what the insurer assumes.
  • Protection From Insurance Pressure - Adjusters often push for statements or early settlements. A car crash lawyer provides guidance and protection from tactics designed to reduce the value of your claim.
  • Compensation That Reflects the Full Injury - Some injuries worsen over time or require future treatment. A car wreck lawyer builds a claim that accounts for long-term medical needs, wage loss, and the true impact on daily life.
  • Trial-Ready Leverage When Fairness Is Refused - Not every case requires litigation, but preparation matters. A car wreck attorney ensures your case is positioned strongly if negotiations fail and litigation becomes necessary.

Does My Situation Require a Car Accident Attorney?

You may benefit from speaking with an attorney if you were injured, required medical care, missed work, or are dealing with ongoing symptoms. 

Legal guidance is also important when fault is disputed, multiple vehicles were involved, or the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. Many people hesitate because they believe their case is “not serious enough.”

However, even moderate crashes can cause long-term back injuries, concussions, or chronic pain. A consultation with one of our auto accident lawyers in Columbus can help clarify your options and whether pursuing a claim makes sense.

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What do I do after a car accident?

Michael Vervoort, attorney at law

The Car Accident Case Process What to Expect

Step One: Case Review and Practical Guidance

We begin by listening to what happened, reviewing your injuries, and discussing your priorities. We also provide early guidance about insurance communications and medical documentation that can protect your claim.

Step Two: Evidence and Liability Review

We gather crash reports, photographs, witness statements, medical records, and proof of wage loss. When liability is disputed, we focus on building evidence that supports fault.

Step Three: Claim Development and Demand

Once damages are clear, we build a claim that reflects medical costs, future treatment needs, lost income, and pain and suffering. A demand is then presented to the insurer based on evidence and case strategy.

Step Four: Negotiation or Litigation

Many cases resolve through negotiation. If insurers refuse fair compensation, litigation may be required. We prepare each case thoroughly so you are protected regardless of how the case proceeds.

We are prepared to take a case to trial if necessary, but many cases resolve through settlement after filing. Litigation is sometimes the strategy that forces the other side to take the claim seriously.

Cases Won Real Outcomes for Real People

$3.6 Million

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports...

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports that characterized their elderly father as a reckless motorcyclist. After a complex accident reconstruction identified the negligence of multiple parties, the case was settled during a second private mediation.

Motorcycle Accident | Marysville, Ohio

$1.6 Million

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as...

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as a result of the injury. Unfortunately, Ohio has a cap of $250,000 for non-economic damages, with no exceptions, for cases against political subdivisions. Through a comprehensive case work up and well versed arguments presenting a real threat to challenging the constitutionality of caps on damages, we were able to negotiate a higher settlement than what was provided under the law.

Pedestrian Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$1.3 Million

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with three young adult siblings.  TSF was engaged to serve as local counsel to assist with the litigation, mediation, and resolution of the case.

Truck Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$600,000

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left and turned in front of a motorcyclist, causing serious injury. An accident reconstructionist was retained to disprove inflammatory witness accounts of speed, as motorcyclists are commonly accused of speeding due to the sound of their bike. 

Motorcycle Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$500,000

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic...

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with an oncoming motorist. Client sustained serious injuries requring extensive hospitalization and rehab.  He and his wife heavily relied upon counsel to guide them through the maze of medical bills and insurance claims so they could focus on healing and recovery.  Settlement was further maximized through negotiations with multiple lienholders.

Car Accident | Galion, Ohio

$135,000

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert...

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert to demonstrate permanency of scarring to enhance case value

Dog Bite | Marysville, Ohio

$100,000

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash...

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash and injury to college aged passenger. Policy limits settlement offer obtained despite minimal medical treatment options and $5,000 in medical bills. Client was unsure how to protect her concern for permanent injury and retained counsel to help her obtain expert testimony to document permanent injury to justify the policy limits settlement.

Car Accident | Mentor, Ohio
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Common Causes and Injuries in Car Accidents

Car crashes are often preventable and caused by negligence. Common causes include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, unsafe lane changes, impaired driving, and following too closely.

Common injuries include whiplash, concussions, back and neck trauma, fractures, joint injuries, and internal damage. These injuries may require surgery, long-term rehabilitation, or permanent work restrictions, and your claim should reflect the full medical reality.

“From start to finish, Christian was professional, transparent, and incredibly attentive to every detail.”

—M.P.

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Meet Your Ohio Personal Injury Attorneys

Proven Leaders in Ohio Personal Injury Law

Our team of local attorneys were hand-selected for their experience and leadership in client service, top legal organizations, and our communities.

Founder

Nathan J. Stuckey

  • Immediate Past President of Ohio Association for Justice
  • The National Trial Lawyers, Top 100
  • Ohio Super Lawyers
Read Nathan's Bio

Partner

Sydney S. McLafferty

  • Past President, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Active Member, American Association of Justice
  • National Women’s Trial Lawyers, Top 25
Read Sydney's Bio

Partner

J. Michael Vervoort

  • Board Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
  • Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys
Read Michael's Bio

Attorney

Paul (PJ) Jacob Ratcliffe

  • Member, West Virginia Association for Justice
  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
Read Paul's Bio

Attorney

Christian W. Sorg

  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, Clark County Bar Association
  • Founding Board Member, Recon & Sniper Foundation
Read Christian's Bio

Attorney

James E. Heath

  • Past President, Clark County Bar Association
  • Board Member, Clark County Sportsman’s Club
  • Former Captian, U.S. Army JAG Corps
Read James's Bio

Of Counsel

Christian R. Patno

  • Of Counsel
  • President, American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
Read Christian's Bio

Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Client-First Firm That Works With You

Car accident victims often feel pressured and unsure who to trust. We work with you, not just for you, taking time to answer questions, explain options clearly, and build a strategy around your recovery.

Trial-Ready Preparation That Signals Strength

Insurance companies recognize when a case is being handled seriously. We document thoroughly and prepare every claim with the expectation that it must withstand scrutiny if litigation becomes necessary.

Credibility That Helps You Be Taken Seriously

Our attorneys are respected statewide and known for bringing well-prepared claims. That credibility matters when insurers attempt to minimize injuries or pressure clients into quick settlements.

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Car Accidents Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a car accident lawyer?

If you were injured, missed work, or have ongoing symptoms, it is often worth speaking with a lawyer. Insurance companies frequently undervalue injury claims without legal pressure.

What if I was partially at fault?

Ohio allows recovery in many cases even when fault is shared, depending on the circumstances. A lawyer can evaluate how fault may affect compensation.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Deadlines depend on the type of claim and circumstances. Because evidence can fade quickly, it is best to speak with car accident attorneys early to protect your rights.

What if the insurance company already offered a settlement?

Early offers are often made before the full impact of injuries is known. A lawyer can evaluate whether the offer truly reflects long-term costs and damages.

Do I have to go to court?

Not always. Many cases resolve through negotiation, but litigation may be necessary if fair compensation is refused. Trial-ready preparation protects your options.

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Talk With a Car Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a car accident and are unsure what comes next, we are here to help. Contact The Stuckey Firm to schedule a confidential consultation with a motor vehicle accident lawyer in Columbus, OH and get clear guidance focused on protecting your recovery and your future.

Talk With a Local Attorney Get a Free Case Review

If you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to listen and help you understand your options

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