Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys in Columbus

Seeking Fair & Full Compensation for Your Car Crash Injuries

Despite the clear dangers and strict laws surrounding driving while intoxicated (DWI), thousands of drunk drivers are arrested every year in Ohio. These drivers cause severe injuries, multi-vehicle crashes, and even deaths. The reckless decisions of impaired drivers become even more devastating when innocent people suffer in a serious car accident. If you have experienced a drunk driving accident, our firm is here to support you. Even if your accident involved a hit and run, you can often recover compensation through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

Our dedicated team brings over 150 years of combined experience handling personal injury cases and pursuing justice in court when needed. Our commitment and determination have helped us recover more than $300 million for our clients. Most importantly, we want you to feel secure, so we work on a contingency fee basis—you owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Dealing with the Damages of Drunk Driving Accidents

If you suffer a serious injury in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, you may worry about medical and repair bills. Even when authorities convict the responsible driver of DUI, you are not automatically entitled to financial compensation, and insurance companies might not offer full coverage.

The smart decision is to act quickly and consult a drunk driving accident attorney in Columbus at Rourke & Blumenthal. With our team on your side, we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Ohio enforces strict penalties for drunk driving, but criminal cases do not provide payment for your losses. Civil claims in Franklin County allow injured individuals to seek damages for lost wages, medical bills, and more from the responsible party. Taking action promptly preserves evidence and ensures you meet Ohio’s statute of limitations, which is generally two years from the accident date. Collecting police reports, photos, and witness statements soon after the crash often makes a significant impact because accident scenes in Columbus may change quickly with roadwork or city maintenance.

In many cases, we have also helped clients recover punitive and nominal damages. Punitive damages aim to penalize the offender for reckless conduct, while nominal damages seek financial compensation for the emotional harm the accident caused. Both types of damages reflect your story when you file your claim. By pursuing penalties against offenders and helping you address the emotional aftermath of the crash, we work to support your sense of closure.

Understanding Ohio Laws & the Legal Process for Drunk Driving Accidents

Ohio deals firmly with drunk driving, imposing both criminal and civil consequences for drivers who cause harm while impaired. When an accident involves alcohol, victims can file a civil claim for compensation, no matter the outcome of any DUI charges. In Columbus, the legal process begins with collecting evidence, such as sobriety tests and police reports prepared by local law enforcement. Ohio Revised Code Section 4511.19 defines impaired driving, and these standards have a direct effect on your case. Franklin County courts follow set timelines for injury lawsuits, though the process can vary based on the crash’s complexity and availability of witnesses. Each stage, from investigation to possible settlement or trial, highlights the need to stay proactive and organized so you can build a solid case. Criminal and civil cases move along separate tracks, so a DUI conviction does not resolve your personal injury claim.

Local procedures play an important role. Columbus police move quickly in drunk driving investigations, following Ohio guidelines for breathalyzer tests and evidence gathering. Reports prepared by the Columbus Division of Police are central to many claims in this area. By understanding how local agencies work and what the courts require, you can take the right steps after a crash and position yourself for a smoother recovery.

Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident in Columbus

Your actions in the hours and days following a drunk driving accident can make a real difference for your health and your claim. Call 911 right away and make sure law enforcement documents everything. If you are able, take photos of the scene, gather witness contact details, and preserve evidence such as damaged property or visible injuries. Always seek medical attention immediately—even injuries that seem minor require documentation from local hospitals for insurance and legal purposes later.

Notify your insurance provider about the crash and keep copies of all paperwork and communications. Disputes with insurers are common in these cases. If an impaired driver leaves the scene or has little or no insurance, Ohio law may allow you to file a claim under your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Acting quickly is especially important for victims in Columbus, since evidence like business security footage or city traffic camera footage may only be accessible for a short time. By following these steps without delay, you help protect your claim’s value and ensure key details are documented for possible legal action.

Contact Our Columbus Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Today

Whether your driver was intoxicated, distracted, or engaged in other negligent conduct, contact us. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can help you feel comfortable and secure. Our team provides comprehensive representation and reviews every detail of your case, always advocating vigorously for your rights. Our goal is to stand up for you while you focus on recovering from your injuries.

After a serious collision, many people feel overwhelmed by the next steps and legal questions, especially as medical bills arrive. We guide our clients through every stage of the claims process and help gather time-sensitive documentation, including accident reports from the Columbus Division of Police or medical records from hospitals across the city. Drawing on our network of professionals in accident reconstruction and medical evaluation, we help lay the groundwork for your case, taking pressure off you during recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a claim after a drunk driving accident in Ohio?

Ohio law generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Beginning the process as soon as possible preserves crucial evidence and ensures you have the needed documentation for your case.

Will a criminal DUI conviction guarantee compensation in a civil case?

No. A criminal DUI conviction does not guarantee compensation in a personal injury claim. Civil cases have unique standards and processes, so the outcome depends on available evidence and the legal arguments made.

What if the drunk driver has no insurance or flees the accident scene?

You may still have options under your own uninsured or underinsured motorist policy. Ohio law provides avenues for compensation even if the responsible driver lacks insurance or cannot be found after the crash.

Free consultations are available to all prospective clients, so you really have nothing to lose. Schedule yours today at (614) 321-3212 and speak with our drunk driving accident lawyers in Columbus.