Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Columbus, OH
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Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Columbus, OH
Do You Need Legal Help?
Client
Testimonials
Learn what our clients have to say about the work of Sabol Mallory. If you have any questions or need legal help for a criminal charge, please reach out to us right away.
Chase Mallory is incredible. He is wonderful to work with and knows exactly what to do to help his clients. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done for me. I highly recommend hiring Chase to help fight your battles. Bless you!
- Erin R.
Dan Sabol is probably the best attorney I've ever worked with. Very professional and worked hard to get the best results possible. He will be the first person I call if I need a lawyer again. If you find yourself in a sticky situation make sure you give him a ring.
- Christopher R.
I had the pleasure of working with Dan and Chase and I am very grateful!! They did amazing work to help me on my case. They are very helpful and get back with you in a timely manner whenever I had questions for them, which was very nice and reassuring.
- Jessica H.
Dan Sabol
Dan is the first attorney in Ohio to be both board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and be designated as a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society.
Chase Mallory
Chase Mallory is a firm founder whom has tried over 40 cases and conducted more than 100 suppression hearings. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Kaitlyn O'Hara
Kaitlyn O’Hara is a criminal defense lawyer who began her work in the court room long before she attended law school. In her first year as an attorney, she was counsel of record on five jury trials.
Meet the lawyers who make up the legal team at Sabol Mallory LLC. Read their individual bios and get to know more about their education, experience and accolades.
Learn more about our teamMotorcycle Accident Lawyers in Columbus, OH
Motorcycle crashes in Columbus, Ohio can leave riders facing severe injuries, financial strain, and insurance companies eager to minimize claims. Riders are often assumed to be at fault simply because they are on a motorcycle, making it harder to secure fair compensation. At Sabol Mallory LLC, we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face after an accident, and we fight the bias that can work against you.
Our approach begins with a free consultation to review your case and outline your options. We handle motorcycle accident claims on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we secure a recovery. Every claim receives dedicated attention, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, representing you in court.
Choosing the right legal team can make the difference between a reduced settlement and full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Columbus, OH at Sabol Mallory LLC are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring your voice is heard.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Columbus
Motorcycle accidents are a disproportionate concern in Ohio. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reports that while motorcycles make up a small portion of registered vehicles, they account for a significant share of traffic fatalities. In Franklin County, where urban streets meet suburban roads, the number of motorcycle crashes remains high each year.
Motorcycle accidents in Columbus most commonly result from:
- Drivers failing to see motorcycles when changing lanes or making left turns: Cars often overlook motorcycles because of their smaller size, leading to dangerous collisions that can cause catastrophic injuries.
- Left-turn collisions at Columbus intersections: These crashes are among the most common and deadly, as turning drivers misjudge a motorcyclist’s speed or distance.
- Rear-end collisions: Following too closely or distractions behind the wheel can result in serious injuries when a motorcycle is struck from behind.
- Road hazards: Potholes, gravel, debris, and uneven pavement create risks that are far more dangerous for motorcycles than for cars.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Impaired drivers are more likely to cause severe accidents, especially for motorcyclists who have less physical protection.
Ohio Motorcycle Accident Law: What the Statute Requires
Ohio’s Helmet Law and Comparative Fault
Ohio Revised Code § 4511.53 requires riders under 18 to wear a helmet, but adults are not legally required to do so. In personal injury cases, however, whether you were wearing a helmet can be used by insurance companies or defense attorneys to argue comparative fault or reduce claimed head injuries. Ohio’s modified comparative fault rule under Ohio Revised Code § 2315.33 allows any percentage of fault to reduce recovery. A Columbus motorcycle accident lawyer can anticipate and counter these arguments to protect your case.
Ohio’s At-Fault System and Rider Behavior
Ohio is an at-fault insurance state, meaning the party responsible for the crash must cover damages. Lane splitting is not allowed in Ohio, and if a rider was performing this maneuver, it can be raised to assign comparative fault. Understanding how courts view rider behavior is essential to securing fair compensation and framing the facts accurately in your favor.
Catastrophic Injuries and Ohio’s Damage Cap Exceptions
Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and severe road rash. Ohio Revised Code § 2315.18 caps non-economic damages in many cases, but exceptions exist for permanent and substantial physical deformity or permanent loss of a bodily function — conditions that are far more common in motorcycle accident cases. Knowing which exceptions apply requires careful legal review to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve.
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What to Do Immediately After Your Motorcycle Accident in Columbus
A motorcycle crash can be shocking and confusing. Injuries may be severe, and the aftermath often involves dealing with police, other drivers, and insurance companies. Taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and strengthen any legal claim you may have.
- Call 911 and get medical help: Even if you feel okay, adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Call emergency services to report the accident and request medical attention. Immediate evaluation ensures that internal injuries, concussions, or spinal damage are identified and treated promptly.
- Do not remove your helmet at the scene unless directed by medical personnel: Your helmet protects your head and neck. Removing it incorrectly can worsen injuries, especially if there is a spinal or head injury. Wait for trained responders to assist.
- Photograph the scene, vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries: Take pictures of everything, including skid marks, road hazards, traffic signals, and damage to all vehicles. Document your injuries from multiple angles.
- Get witness names and contact information: Independent witnesses can verify your version of events. Write down full names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Their statements may be vital if the crash circumstances are disputed.
- Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies: Insurance representatives may ask for a statement immediately after the crash. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Avoid giving formal or recorded statements until you have legal guidance.
- Contact Sabol Mallory LLC before speaking with insurers: Reach out to our office as soon as possible. We guide every interaction with insurers, ensuring your rights are protected and your claim is built on the strongest possible foundation from day one.
Taking these steps immediately can make a major difference in your safety, recovery, and ability to secure fair compensation.
Why Columbus, OH Residents Choose Sabol Mallory LLC for Motorcycle Accident Cases
Motorcycle accidents often leave riders dealing with serious injuries, lost income, and mounting medical bills. In Columbus, many riders are unfairly blamed for accidents simply because they were on a motorcycle. At Sabol Mallory LLC, we understand that bias and work tirelessly to build cases that counter it. We gather evidence — police reports, accident scene photos, and witness statements — to show who is truly responsible for the crash.
Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Columbus, OH fight to secure full and fair compensation for every injury, including medical costs, lost wages, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. We start with a free consultation, where we review the details of your crash, explain your options, and answer all your questions. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win.
Clients choose Sabol Mallory LLC because we treat each case personally. We manage communication with insurance companies, anticipate tactics used to limit claims, and advocate aggressively for your recovery. From minor injuries to catastrophic accidents, we focus on protecting your rights and helping you move forward.
Mistakes to Avoid After a Motorcycle Accident in Columbus, OH
1. Assuming Bias Against Riders Is Unavoidable
Many drivers, insurance adjusters, and even juries carry unconscious biases against motorcyclists. A Columbus motorcycle accident lawyer builds a case to counter this bias, using dashcam footage, photos, witness statements, accident reconstruction, and police reports to clearly establish the other driver’s fault.
2. Delaying Medical Treatment
Motorcycle accidents can result in hidden injuries, including internal bleeding, concussions, and spinal injuries. Failing to seek medical care immediately can create gaps in documentation, making it harder to prove that injuries resulted from the crash. Prompt medical evaluation provides a record that links your injuries directly to the accident.
3. Hiring a Lawyer Without Motorcycle Case Experience
Motorcycle accidents involve unique legal challenges. Helmet laws, comparative fault rules, lane positioning, and the higher severity of injuries require careful understanding. General personal injury attorneys may overlook these factors, potentially reducing your compensation or weakening your claim.
4. Speaking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
The at-fault driver’s insurer aims to minimize payouts. Providing recorded statements, accepting quick settlement offers, or signing documents without legal guidance can harm your claim. Let Sabol Mallory LLC handle all communications to protect your rights and maximize compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Claims in Columbus, Ohio
Do I have to wear a helmet in Ohio?
Ohio law requires riders under 18 to wear a helmet. Adults are not legally required to wear one, but insurance companies or defense attorneys may argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries. This is a comparative fault issue. An attorney can explain how helmet use might affect your claim and take steps to counter any reduction in compensation.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Ohio?
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Acting quickly is crucial because evidence can be lost and witnesses may become unavailable. Early consultation with a lawyer ensures all evidence is preserved.
What if the driver claims they did not see me?
“I didn’t see the motorcyclist” is a common defense. Motorcycle accident lawyers use physical evidence, accident reconstruction, photographs, and witness statements to show the driver’s negligence. Demonstrating visibility and road conditions at the time of the crash can counter this defense and strengthen your case.
Can I recover compensation even if I was not wearing a helmet?
Yes. Ohio’s modified comparative fault law may reduce compensation if the defense argues helmet non-use contributed to injuries, but it does not automatically bar your claim. Your lawyer can show that other factors, like the driver’s negligence, were the primary cause of your injuries.
What damages can I recover after a motorcycle accident?
You may recover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, future medical care, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. Catastrophic injuries may qualify for exceptions to Ohio’s non-economic damage caps, increasing potential compensation.
What if the other driver's insurance coverage is not enough?
If the at-fault driver’s policy is insufficient, your own underinsured motorist coverage may apply. Sabol Mallory LLC can identify all possible coverage sources to maximize your recovery.
How does Sabol Mallory LLC handle fees?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win. There are no upfront fees, and initial consultations are free.
What should I do if the insurance company calls me right after the crash?
Do not give a recorded statement or agree to anything. Insurance companies often call early to gather information and reduce claim value. Inform them you are represented by Sabol Mallory LLC and direct them to contact our office.
What to Do Immediately After Your Motorcycle Accident in Columbus
A motorcycle crash can be shocking and confusing. Injuries may be severe, and the aftermath often involves dealing with police, other drivers, and insurance companies. Taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and strengthen any legal claim you may have.
- Call 911 and get medical help: Even if you feel okay, adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Call emergency services to report the accident and request medical attention. Immediate evaluation ensures that internal injuries, concussions, or spinal damage are identified and treated promptly.
- Do not remove your helmet at the scene unless directed by medical personnel: Your helmet protects your head and neck. Removing it incorrectly can worsen injuries, especially if there is a spinal or head injury. Wait for trained responders to assist.
- Photograph the scene, vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries: Take pictures of everything, including skid marks, road hazards, traffic signals, and damage to all vehicles. Document your injuries from multiple angles.
- Get witness names and contact information: Independent witnesses can verify your version of events. Write down full names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Their statements may be vital if the crash circumstances are disputed.
- Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies: Insurance representatives may ask for a statement immediately after the crash. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Avoid giving formal or recorded statements until you have legal guidance.
- Contact Sabol Mallory LLC before speaking with insurers: Reach out to our office as soon as possible. We guide every interaction with insurers, ensuring your rights are protected and your claim is built on the strongest possible foundation from day one.
Taking these steps immediately can make a major difference in your safety, recovery, and ability to secure fair compensation.
Client Reviews
Sabol Mallory did an amazing job. I was very pleased with the outcome. They returned my calls and always went over everything with me. I would HIGHLY recommend them.