A recent two-vehicle car accident occurred at the intersection of Morse Road and Beechmont Drive in North Columbus.
According to ABC 6, both vehicles sustained significant damage, and at least two required medical attention. While authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the collision, witnesses reported that one vehicle may have failed to yield, resulting in a side impact crash. Local emergency responders arrived quickly to assist those involved and to manage traffic in the area.
The Attkisson Law Firm wishes those injured well and we hope everyone recovers after this incident.
While these accidents are unfortunate, they do happen, and it is best to know beforehand what to do after an accident. The goal of our car accident attorneys is to always help residents understand the steps to take if they were involved in this accident or if their property was affected, and to know how liability is determined in car accidents on private property.
What to Do If You Are in a Car Accident that Resulted in Property Damage
If you were a driver or passenger in a car accident, it is important to take the following steps:
- Ensure everyone is safe and seek medical attention for injuries immediately.
- Contact local law enforcement to report the accident and request a police report.
- Take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any property damage.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved.
- Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident.
- Avoid admitting fault at the scene or on social media, as statements can affect insurance claims and legal liability.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to learn your rights.
Following these steps helps protect your legal and financial interests after a car accident.
What to Do If You Own the Property Involved in a Car Accident
Property owners whose land or structures are struck in an accident also have important steps to follow:
- Document all damage by taking photos and videos of the scene.
- Secure the area to prevent further harm or damage.
- Report the incident to your insurance company and provide evidence of the damage.
- Keep records of repair estimates and any correspondence related to the accident.
- Avoid negotiating directly with drivers about repairs without consulting your insurance company or an attorney, as this can affect your legal rights.
Property owners have the right to seek compensation for damages and may require professional guidance to ensure the claim is handled correctly.
How Liability Works for Accidents on Private Property
Determining who is responsible for damages can be more complicated when an accident occurs on private property. Liability is typically based on negligence, the specific circumstances of the crash, and state law.
Determining Fault in Accidents on Private Property
Fault is determined by analyzing evidence such as:
- Police reports and witness statements
- Traffic laws and signage at the location
- Vehicle positions and damage patterns
- Actions of each driver leading up to the accident
Establishing fault is key for insurance claims and potential legal action.
Insurance Coverage for Property Damage
Insurance plays a critical role in accidents involving property damage:
- Drivers’ auto insurance may cover damage to other vehicles and some property damage.
- Property owners’ insurance may cover damage to buildings, landscaping, or signage.
Understanding which policy applies can prevent delays in repair or reimbursement. Insurance companies often investigate accidents thoroughly, so clear documentation and timely reporting are essential.
Legal Rights and Options for Property Owners
Property owners have legal rights to recover damages caused by negligent drivers. Options may include:
- Filing a claim with the driver’s insurance company
- Pursuing compensation through your own insurance policy if the driver is underinsured
- Consulting an attorney to determine whether a civil lawsuit is necessary to recover full damages
Understanding these rights helps property owners protect their interests and ensures they are not left with uncompensated losses.
When to Consult a Ohio Car Accident Lawyer
Consulting a Columbus car accident attorney can be crucial if:
- You or someone in your car sustained injuries or suffered a wrongful death
- Property damage is significant and insurance may not cover full repairs
- Fault or liability is disputed
- You need guidance navigating insurance claims or legal proceedings
An experienced car accident lawyer can investigate the crash, collect evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure your legal rights are protected.
The Attkisson Law Firm helps drivers and property owners in Ohio pursue fair compensation and resolve disputes arising from car accidents like the one at Morse Road and Beechmont Drive.
Contact The Attkisson Law Firm Today
Car accidents can be stressful and complex, especially when injuries or property damage are involved. The Attkisson Law Firm is ready to help residents of North Columbus and surrounding areas navigate insurance claims, determine liability, and pursue compensation. Whether you need help filing your insurance claim or are worried the insurance company’s offered amount won’t be able to cover the drastic changes needed to your life after a catastrophic injury, we have you covered.
Contact us today at (937) 400-0000 for a free consultation and to get professional guidance tailored to your situation.
