8 Common Personal Injury Cases in Ohio
Dealing with a personal injury can be extremely difficult, especially when navigating the legal system alone. In Ohio, residents face several common types of personal injury cases each year. According to the Ohio State Bar Association, over 200,000 civil lawsuits are filed annually, with a significant portion being personal injury claims. From car accidents to medical malpractice, Ohioans are unfortunately no strangers to situations that cause harm through the negligence of another party.
When dealing with a personal injury case, it is essential to understand your legal rights and explore options with a qualified attorney. Though the circumstances are undoubtedly difficult, resources and professionals are available to support individuals and families pursuing justice.
1. Workplace Hazards
Workers in many industries face serious on-the-job hazards that can lead to catastrophic injuries. These accidents warrant workers’ compensation claims and third-party lawsuits against negligent parties.
One of the most common workplace hazards is asbestos exposure. Asbestos was heavily used in construction, shipyards, and other industries before being banned for its toxicity. As a result, many workers were exposed to asbestos and are now developing mesothelioma and other diseases decades later.
According to the American Cancer Society, Ohio sees over 140 new mesothelioma cases annually. This is higher than the national average of 120 new cases per year. The high rate of mesothelioma in Ohio is likely due to the state’s industrial history. Ohio was a major center for the production and use of asbestos, and many workers were exposed to the harmful fibers.
An attorney can help victims access workers’ compensation and treatment funds and sue manufacturers who knowingly used the toxic material. For asbestos-related cases, it’s best to contact a local Ohio mesothelioma lawyer because each state has its own laws and regulations regarding asbestos exposure and personal injury claims, including statutes of limitations (time limits within which you must file a claim). An attorney in Ohio will understand these state-specific laws and will be able to navigate them effectively to build a strong case
2. Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents are another prevalent source of personal injury lawsuits in Ohio. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly half of all healthcare work-related injuries in Ohio involve a slip, trip, or fall.
Property owners are also responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions to prevent slips and falls. If hazardous conditions like wet floors or poor lighting cause a slip-and-fall accident, the property owner may be liable for any injuries and damages. An attorney can help determine fault and fight for compensation for medical treatment, lost income, and pain and suffering.
3. Car Accidents
Car accidents are one of Ohio’s leading causes of personal injury cases each year. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, over 300,000 car crashes occur annually. Though many are minor fender benders, nearly 1,000 result in fatalities.
Common car accident injuries include whiplash, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and back and neck pain. An experienced personal injury attorney can help car accident victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
4. Medical Malpractice
When a medical professional’s negligence causes injury or wrongful death, patients or their families may have a medical malpractice claim. According to 2017 statistics, 34% of medical malpractice claims in Ohio were due to misdiagnosis.
Common cases involve surgical errors, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, anesthesia, and medication errors. While medical malpractice claims require extensive investigation and expert testimony to prove negligence, an attorney can navigate this complex process to help victims and families obtain justice.
5. Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Many families trust nursing homes to provide quality care for aging or disabled loved ones. However, cases of nursing home abuse and neglect occur far too often. Bed sores, falls, malnutrition, dehydration, and emotional abuse are common forms of nursing home neglect.
And in some alarming cases, physical assault, sexual abuse, or financial exploitation is also an occurrence. The National Center on Elder Abuse reports over 20,000 nursing home abuse cases annually in Ohio.
6. Wrongful Death
When another party’s negligence or intentional actions lead to someone’s death, surviving family members may have a wrongful death claim. Most wrongful death claims involve car accidents, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, dangerous premises, etc.
While no amount of money can replace their loved one, a wrongful death claim can provide financial compensation to cover funeral costs, lost future income and benefits, loss of companionship, and other damages. Seeking legal help can help families obtain their legal rights, guide them, and offer solace in their time of grief.
7. Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation provides benefits for employees injured on the job. Though often straightforward, some complex cases require legal help to ensure proper compensation.
An attorney can assist with denied claims, delays in benefit payments, disputes over medical treatment, permanent impairment benefits, and cases involving pre-existing conditions or third-party negligence. They will aggressively protect an injured worker’s right to fair compensation and benefits under the law.
8. Defective Products
When a dangerous or defective product causes injury, victims may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 28,000 product-related injuries are reported annually in Ohio.
Most common defective products include medical devices, children’s toys, automobiles, household appliances, and more. Hiring an attorney is vital as product liability cases require extensive resources and expertise to build a strong claim. Your lawyer can investigate the product defect, trace liability, demonstrate how the flaw caused injury, and negotiate fair compensation.
Conclusion
Dealing with a personal injury can derail lives, causing immense physical, emotional, and financial hardship. While the circumstances are always difficult, victims do not need to face the legal process alone. An experienced personal injury attorney can protect your rights, help you understand your legal options, build a strong claim, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Though each case is unique, lawyers can apply their expertise to guide victims and families through the complex legal system.
