Time Limits on Ohio Car Accident Claims

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Ohio, the clock is ticking. While you’re dealing with medical bills, car repairs, and recovery, there’s another urgent matter you can’t afford to overlook: Ohio’s statute of limitations for car accident claims.

Failing to act in time could mean losing your right to recover compensation entirely.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Ohio?

Unfortunately, Ohio doesn’t allow you to file a car accident claim whenever you feel like it. Just like other states, Ohio sets laws on how much time you have to file a personal injury claim after a car crash.

If you are an adult over the age of 18, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim under Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10. In the event you’d like to file a claim for your child who is under the age of 18, you can do so two years after their 18th birthday.

If you wait beyond this two-year window, your case will likely be dismissed, and you’ll be barred from recovering any compensation—no matter how strong your evidence is.

Exceptions for Minors and Special Circumstances

There are exceptions to the general two-year deadline, particularly when minors are involved:

• If the injured person was under 18 at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations doesn’t begin until their 18th birthday. That means they have until they turn 20 to file a claim.
• Other exceptions may apply in rare cases involving incapacitation or fraud, but these are complex and require the guidance of a legal professional.

Why Acting Fast After a Car Accident Matters

Even though you technically have two years, waiting can seriously hurt your case. Here’s why:

• Evidence fades – Photos, skid marks, surveillance footage, and witness statements become harder to gather as time passes.
• Insurance companies get tougher – Delays may raise red flags and give the insurer leverage to question the legitimacy of your injuries.
• Medical documentation – Prompt treatment creates a clear paper trail linking your injuries to the accident.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Ohio?

After a car accident in Ohio, your first priority should be safety. Call 911, seek medical attention—even for minor injuries—and make sure a police report is filed. Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect the contact and insurance information of all drivers involved, as well as witness details if available. Avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the crash.

Once you’ve reported the accident to your insurer, consult with an experienced Ohio car accident attorney. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you file a personal injury claim in Ohio before the statute of limitations runs out. Acting quickly improves your chances of securing maximum compensation.

How an Ohio Car Accident Lawyer Helps You Beat the Deadline

It can be incredibly difficult and complicated to file a car accident claim on your own. Since car accident insurance claims are so complex, it is in your best interest to seek skilled legal representation. In addition to helping you prove liability, here’s what legal counsel can do for you:

• Investigate the crash and gather critical evidence
• Prove fault and calculate the full value of your damages
• Handle aggressive insurance adjusters and negotiate fair compensation
• File your lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires

They can take care of all the legalities so you can focus on what’s most important: recovering. You are more likely to secure the maximum compensation possible when you have a lawyer who can determine the value of your case working for you.

Does the Statute of Limitations in Ohio Stop Running if You File an Insurance Claim?

Filing an insurance claim does not pause or stop the statute of limitations for a car accident in Ohio. This is a common misconception that can cost victims their right to sue.

The two-year deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit still applies, regardless of whether:

• You’re in ongoing talks with an insurance adjuster
• You’ve submitted a car accident insurance claim
• The insurer has yet to issue a final decision

To protect your legal rights, it’s important to speak with an Ohio car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Insurance companies may intentionally delay negotiations, hoping you’ll miss the filing window.

Talk to an Experienced Ohio Car Accident Attorney Today

If you have further questions on the time limits for settling Ohio car accident claims, contact Kisling, Nestico & Redick. As a veteran Ohio personal injury firm, we can advise you on your legal options, explain your rights, and make sure you are treated fairly by the negligent party and their insurance company.

Call 1-800-HURT-NOW today to schedule a free, no-risk consultation. There are no up-front fees and we are only paid when you recover compensation.