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Blog › Ohio Accident Reporting: Who, How, and When?
September 22, 2022

Ohio Accident Reporting: Who, How, and When?

Ohio Accident Reporting: Who, How, and When?
So you’ve been in an accident in Ohio. It’s an extremely rattling and unsettling experience. Right after your mind might be racing with what to do. But how do you report this incident? How soon do you have to report it? And to whom do you report it? Scrambling to find these answers all over the internet can add stress to an already stressful experience. We’ve made this helpful guide for you to navigate the world of filing an Ohio accident report.  Here at Spivak and Sakellariou we are committed to helping you navigate these difficult moments. 

Who Do I File a Report With?

When you are involved in a car accident it is always a good idea to call the police to file a report. But do you have to file a report with the police? If an accident causes injury resulting in needing medical attention, death, or property damage amounting over $1000 you are required to file a police report.  Are there advantages to filing a police report when not required?  Yes. Filing a police report creates a paper trail. This can help you in any legal disputes and insurance settlements. Being in an accident is a traumatizing and stressful experience. Remembering exactly what happened can be difficult. In addition to filing a police report it is also a good idea to write down exactly what you remember. And to get these written accounts from any witnesses too. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Report?

So you’ve been in an accident. There are probably many things swimming through your brain. It can be difficult to assess your injuries and any of the damages. You know that you should possibly file a police report. But how much time do you have to do this? Should you file right away or assess the situation first? When you are in an accident in Ohio you have five days to file a police report. Again, this is required in the event of injury requiring medical attention, death, or over $1000 in damages. And although it is not required outside of those circumstances it is a good idea. In the hours after an accident your body may be in shock. It can be difficult to know the extent of your injuries. Having a police report on file can help you get the compensation you deserve. 

When Should I File a Report?

Time is of the essence when you’ve been in an accident. It is best to file a report as soon as you can. But in the immediate aftermath of an accident it can be difficult to remember exactly what to do. If you don’t immediately file a police report it is okay. You have five days to file a report when one is required.  Again, making a police report is not required, but it can be beneficial. In the moments after an accident it can be difficult to know if you’re injured or the extent of your property damage. Having a police report can help you recover those losses. You have six months to report an accident to the DMV if you were in an accident that does not require police presence.  You can also file a report on your own using the form here. 

What Does This Process Look Like?

If you don’t call an officer right to the scene of the accident there are several details you need to know to file your report. Having this information is crucial to taking care of yourself and your property in the aftermath of an accident. 
  1. Location of the accident, including the nearest intersection. 
  2. The time and the date of the accident. 
  3. Everyone involved, this includes all passengers and witnesses. 
  4. Your estimated property damage. 
  5. Road conditions and what the weather was. 
  6. Drivers license numbers, names, and addresses of all the drivers involved. 
Having this information will help you to file the most efficient and helpful report. It can be difficult to remember this information in the immediate aftermath. In this situation it is always helpful to lean on witnesses and passengers to help you flesh out all of the details. 

What Else Should I Know About This Process? 

Being in an accident is stressful enough, having to deal with the police can feel intimidating. Having all of the information ready to go can help you feel more empowered to take the steps needed.  This process can be a difficult one to handle, especially when dealing with the aftermath of an accident. You deserve an expert by your side to help you along.  Contacting one of our personal injury attorneys right away to help you navigate this process should take priority. Having one of our lawyers in your corner will give you the security and knowledge you need to protect yourself and your property. 

Still Have Questions?

Dealing with the aftermath of an accident is a confusing and disorienting experience. You may have questions and concerns that can’t be answered by this article. We are standing by to answer any of your questions. You can contact one of our attorneys, risk free, today to get the best possible guidance for your case.  Here at Spivak and Sakellariou we specialize in representing victims of accidents. Or you can call or text us anytime at, (513)-532-2201, for a free consultation. It costs you absolutely nothing up front to be represented by us. We will only ever take a cut if we win your case for you.  There is absolutely no risk in contacting us today for us to assess your case. We are here to help you find serenity and security after the trauma of an accident. 
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