Resources for Victims and Families of Accidents in Ohio

From car crashes in Cleveland to workplace injuries in Columbus and fatal truck accidents on I-75, thousands of Ohio families are affected by accidents each year. The aftermath of a serious injury or tragic loss can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to turn for help.

This guide provides vital Ohio accident victim resources to help individuals and families find support. Whether you need medical care, police report access, emotional support, or legal guidance, this page is your starting point.

Help for Injury Victims After Accidents in Ohio

If you were injured because of another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation under Ohio law. But getting what you’re owed often requires strong documentation, legal knowledge, and advocacy.

Emergency Care and Rehabilitation Centers in Ohio

Top trauma hospitals and rehab centers in Ohio include:

• The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (Columbus) – Level I trauma center with rehabilitation services
• Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland) – Emergency care, orthopedics, and physical therapy
• University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center – Advanced trauma and burn care
• UC Health University of Cincinnati Medical Center – Comprehensive accident recovery and trauma care

For statewide health services, visit the Ohio Department of Health at https://odh.ohio.gov

Ohio Personal Injury Laws

Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar. This means you can recover compensation as long as you were less than 51% at fault for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and benefits
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage

The statute of limitations for most personal injury cases in Ohio is two years from the date of the accident.

Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in Ohio

When an accident leads to the unexpected death of a loved one, surviving family members are left grieving and trying to manage legal and financial burdens. Ohio law allows certain relatives to pursue a wrongful death claim.

Grief Counseling and Support in Ohio

Several organizations offer grief services across the state:

• Cornerstone of Hope (Cleveland, Columbus, Lima) – Grief support and counseling
• OhioHealth Bereavement Services (Columbus area) – Counseling and support groups
• Hospice of Cincinnati – Family grief programs and one-on-one support
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Available 24/7 via call or text

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Ohio

Under Ohio Revised Code § 2125.01, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. Damages benefit surviving family members such as spouses, children, and parents.

Compensation may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses from the fatal injury
• Loss of income and support
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish

The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Ohio is two years from the date of death.

How to Get a Police Report After an Accident in Ohio

Police crash reports are essential for insurance claims and personal injury cases. They detail the parties involved, vehicle damage, and officer observations at the scene.

Requesting an Accident Report in Ohio

Crash reports can be requested from:

• Ohio Department of Public Safety – Crash Report Portal
  https://www.publicsafety.ohio.gov
• Ohio State Highway Patrol – https://statepatrol.ohio.gov
• Local Police Departments or Sheriff’s Offices – Contact the records division in the city or county where the accident happened

To request a report, you may need:

• Names of involved individuals
• Date and location of the crash
• Report number (if available)
• A processing fee of around $4–$10

Reports are generally available within 7–10 business days.

Financial and Social Support for Victims in Ohio

A serious injury or fatal accident can disrupt your entire financial situation. Ohio provides assistance programs to help ease the burden for eligible families.

Public Assistance Programs in Ohio

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) offers help with:

• Medicaid – Health coverage for low-income individuals
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Grocery assistance
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Cash support for families with children
• Prevention, Retention, and Contingency Program (PRC) – Emergency support for rent, utilities, and transportation

Apply at https://benefits.ohio.gov

Ohio Crime Victims Compensation Program

If your injury or a loved one’s death was caused by a crime (e.g., DUI, hit-and-run), you may qualify for assistance through the Ohio Attorney General’s Crime Victim Compensation Program.

Covered expenses may include:

• Medical bills
• Funeral costs
• Counseling
• Lost wages

More info: https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov or call 1-800-582-2877.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Ohio

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit?

You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in Ohio. For wrongful death, the deadline is also two years from the date of death.

What happens if I’m partly at fault?

Ohio uses a modified comparative fault rule with a 51% bar. If you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover compensation.

Do I need a police report for my case?

While not required by law, a police report provides essential documentation for insurance claims and legal actions. It can help clarify fault and support your claim.

Who can file a wrongful death claim?

The personal representative of the deceased’s estate files the claim, but the damages benefit close surviving family members such as a spouse, children, or parents.

Should I hire a lawyer after an accident?

Yes. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, file your claim on time, and negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your compensation.

Call an Ohio Accident Attorney Today

Accidents can leave victims and families with questions, medical debt, and lasting trauma. But you don’t have to handle it alone. An experienced Ohio accident attorney can help you:

• Obtain your crash report
• Investigate the cause of the accident
• File your injury or wrongful death claim
• Fight for the compensation you need and deserve

If you or someone you love was hurt or killed in an accident, call an Ohio accident attorney today to get the help and answers you need.