Getting a traffic ticket after a car accident can be stressful and confusing. You may wonder if that automatically means you caused the crash, or if it might hurt your chances of recovering compensation in the aftermath.
The answer is no; a ticket is very different from legal fault. It is just one of several factors that insurance companies, police, and courts consider when determining liability.
At Gervelis Law Firm, we help injury victims across Ohio understand their rights and get the justice they deserve. Our experienced car accident attorneys can review the details of your case and help identify who is at fault for your injuries. Contact us or call us at 866-792-2728 and schedule your free consultation today.
What Does It Mean To Be at Fault in an Accident?
In Ohio, fault in a car accident refers to legal responsibility for causing the crash. It is typically attributed to the person whose negligence directly caused injury or harm to another through recklessness, failure to follow traffic laws, or other similar actions.
Being at fault can significantly impact the outcome of insurance claims and legal cases. Depending on state laws, your percentage of liability could affect the amount of compensation you can secure, if any at all.
What Is the Significance of Receiving a Ticket After an Accident?
Tickets are issued for specific traffic violations, such as running a red light, speeding, or failing to yield. Whether or not you receive a ticket in a car accident will be based on the investigation, including the officer’s judgment and witness reports.
Receiving a ticket can serve as supporting evidence that you contributed to the crash, but it does not automatically assign fault for the entire incident.
Determining Fault After an Accident
Several factors and pieces of evidence determine fault after an auto collision, such as:
- Police Reports
- Insurance investigations
- Witness statements
- Traffic laws and citations
Ohio’s comparative negligence laws , per Ohio Revised Code §2315.33, state that if you are partly at fault for an accident or injury, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
In some cases, if the fault is disputed, the courts can make a final determination. Insurance companies may assign fault in an incident, so having an attorney by your side is crucial.
What Should I Do If I Receive a Ticket After an Accident?
If you are given a ticket after an accident, remain calm. The most important thing you can do is begin documenting everything while protecting your rights. Here are the steps to take:
- Seek medical help if anyone is injured.
- Document the scene by taking photos of the accident and any injuries, collecting witness statements, and exchanging insurance information with the other driver.
- Request a copy of the police report.
- Decide whether to contest the ticket. Some citations are worth fighting if they unfairly assign blame.
- Consult an attorney to determine your options and protect your ability to file a claim.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Ticket and Accident
At Gervelis Law Firm, our compassionate legal team can assess whether or not to fight a ticket or negotiate with the insurance company. If the fault is disputed, it may be necessary to settle in court. We can assist with every step of the way—gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and representing you in court.
An attorney can help reduce potential penalties and fight for the full compensation you deserve. If you or your loved one has been issued a ticket after an accident, do not hesitate to speak with our law office today. Call 866-792-2728 or contact Gervelis Law Firm online to schedule your free consultation.