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Let’s take a closer look at some important statistics related to motorcycle accidents on Ohio’s roadways from 2018 to 2022.

Shared from the Traffic Safety Bulletin May 2023 by the Ohio State Highway Patrol:

▪ From 2018 to 2022, 18,980 motorcycle-involved crashes have occurred on Ohio roadways. The
number of motorcycle crashes has increased each of the last five years. These crashes included
927 fatal crashes that killed 953 motorcyclists and 13 others. Another 5,296 motorcyclists were
seriously injured in these crashes.
▪ Cuyahoga (1,760), Franklin (1,569), Hamilton (1,128), Summit (918), and Lucas (856) Counties led the
state in motorcycle-involved crashes from 2018 to 2022. These five counties accounted for one-in-three such crashes in the state (6,231 or 33%).
▪ Motorcycle drivers were at-fault in 56% of all motorcycle-involved crashes and 64% of fatal crashes
from 2018 to 2022. Half of at-fault motorcycle drivers did not have a motorcycle license
endorsement. Forty-two percent (42%) of motorcycle crashes from 2018 to 2022 involved just the
motorcycle, and this percentage increases to 46% in fatal crashes.
▪ From 2018 to 2022, 9% of motorcycle-involved crashes involved alcohol and/or drugs, nearly twice
the rate of alcohol/drug use in crashes overall (5%). In addition, 54% of fatal crashes involving
motorcycles were alcohol and/or drug related.
▪ Over the last five years (2018-2022), 72% of motorcyclists killed and 66% of motorcyclists seriously
injured in traffic crashes were not wearing a helmet. Ohio only requires helmets for drivers under 18,
drivers with less than one year of motorcycle driving experience, or passengers on motorcycles
where the driver is required to wear a helmet.
▪ Additional information on motorcycle-involved crashes is available on the Ohio Statistics and
Analytics for Traffic Safety (OSTATS) dashboard at: https://www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/ostats.aspx

These statistics serve as a stark reminder of the importance of motorcycle safety on Ohio’s roadways. At Flickinger Legal Group, we are dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of motorcycle riders and their families. If you or a loved one have been affected by a motorcycle-involved accident, our experienced team is here to provide the support and legal guidance you need. We understand the unique challenges that arise in these cases and are committed to helping you seek the compensation you deserve. Your safety is paramount, and we are here to ensure that justice is served. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us fight for your rights.

As motorcycle riding is becoming increasingly popular, riders must take special precautions as summer transitions into autumn. Safety should be a top priority while enjoying your rides during this season. Unfortunately, there are unique road hazards to be aware of. Here are five valuable tips for motorcycle riding in the fall:

  1. Reduced Traction on Cooler Roads: With the changing seasons, road temperatures drop, leading to decreased traction for your motorcycle’s tires. This makes it easier to skid when braking or slowing down.
  2. Beware of Leaves: Leaves, whether falling or already on the ground, can pose hazards to motorcycle riders. Wet leaves can stick to your helmet visor or bike’s windshield, obstructing your view. Additionally, leaves on the road can create slippery conditions that may lead to accidents.
  3. Layer Up: As the weather cools down, layering up is essential for comfort and warmth during your rides in cooler temperatures.
  4. Maintain Your Tires and Fuel: Regularly check your tire treads to ensure they are safe for riding. If the tread is less than 2/32nd of an inch, consider replacing your tires for better road traction. Additionally, inspect your fuel levels and replace oil and coolant as needed.
  5. Be Alert for Wildlife: Fall is a time when more animals are actively foraging for food, potentially leading them onto roads. Exercise extra caution, especially during dawn and dusk rides.

If you reside in Ohio and have sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of the Flickinger Legal Group. Our Columbus Ohio personal injury lawyers are here to support you every step of the way. A dedicated motorcycle accident attorney in Columbus will ensure your rights are protected. Reach out to Columbus Ohio personal injury lawyers at Flickinger Legal Group without delay to consult with a motorcycle accident attorney regarding your case. Safety should be at the top of your mind when motorcycle riding in autumn. Your well-being is our priority.

spring accidents

When Spring arrives, more and more people decide to hit the road for vacations and other fun outings with family and friends. However, many of these road trips take tragic turns when accidents happen that involve large trucks. Since these trucks are much bigger than standard passenger vehicles, serious injuries almost always occur. As for why these accidents take place, there are many reasons. To learn about the most common ones and why you should always hire a truck accident lawyer Columbus Ohio from the Flickinger Legal Group to represent you in these matters, here are crucial points to remember.

Falling Asleep at the Wheel

While truck drivers are expected to make many deliveries on tight schedules, they are still required by federal regulations to take time to rest and sleep. However, many drivers ignore these regulations and wind up falling asleep behind the wheel, causing tragic accidents. If you were involved in an accident where a truck driver fell asleep behind the wheel, immediately contact the Flickinger Legal Group to hire a truck accident lawyer Columbus Ohio who have experience handling these complex cases.

Distracted Driving

Due to truck drivers being on the road for many hours at a time, they are always trying to stay in touch with family and friends. Along with this, they are also talking to employers on a regular basis regarding deadlines and other matters. Unfortunately, they handle many of these communications behind the wheel, resulting in them being distracted while driving. Should they be involved in these activities for only a few seconds, a tragic accident can happen that leads to serious injuries for victims who are struck by the large vehicle.

Due to your immediate need for compensation to pay medical bills and help make up for lost wages, schedule your consultation today with a truck accident lawyer Columbus Ohio from the Flickinger Legal Group.

covid affecting compensation case

The arrival of Coronavirus in the U.S. has played havoc with the lives we are used to living and the way we are going about important parts of our lives. When we think about compensation claims in the era of COVID-19, we do not think about the claims that are currently ongoing. Getting through a compensation claim should be made easier with the help of a Columbus personal injury lawyer who can help with every aspect of your claim.

If you have already started your claim with the Flickinger Legal Group or are looking to start legal proceedings, you should know there could be some delays that a law firm can help you navigate. The arrival of COVID-19 has changed almost every aspect of our lives, including the access we now have to hospitals and medical professionals. Delays are to be expected when looking to make a personal injury or worker’s compensation claim as social distancing rules become even stricter.

You may have been hurt in an accident or at work and believe you can handle the situation yourself. However, a Columbus personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the new world we are facing with the arrival of COVID-19. In many cases, the delays you may have faced trying to handle a compensation claim without the aid of the Flickinger Legal Group will be sidestepped by qualified legal experts. Many insurance companies are willing to come to a settlement out of court with a qualified lawyer as they know the case would not have begun without a good chance of success.

The majority of local courts are now closed to avoid the problems of spreading COVID-19 around the nation. The fact the legal sector has become even more difficult and complex to navigate means the help of a Columbus personal injury lawyer has never been more important.

woman sleeping while driving

Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of automobile accidents in the country today. As much as you may try to stay awake, you can find yourself nodding off behind the wheel, especially when you are driving long distances.

However, when your fatigue has contributed to a serious vehicle accident, you need to take steps now to protect yourself from criminal and legal liabilities. You can hire one of the car accident lawyers in Columbus from the Flickinger Legal Group to represent you in any criminal or civil action today.

Mitigating Your Liability

As the person who fell asleep behind the wheel of your vehicle, you bear a significant legal responsibility to compensate your victims. Still, the circumstances behind your accident may not call for you to be jailed or fined into bankruptcy. They may even call for you to be shown mercy because of certain factors that caused your drowsiness.

Your legal team can bring these circumstances out to the front and center of your case. Your lawyer can argue that you were not entirely at fault for driving while drowsy or for falling asleep behind the wheel of your vehicle. The blame could be laid at the proverbial feet of medication manufacturers, for example, if you were on a medication for a certain health ailment.

Regardless, your legal team will work diligently to help you avoid the harshest penalties. They have the legal skills to argue down charges against you and negotiate a settlement with your insurer to pay out a lump sum of cash to keep the case out of court.

It is easy to think that everything is lost when you fell asleep while driving and caused a wreck. However, you can rebuild your life with as minimal effects from the case as possible by hiring a good attorney to represent you. Consult with one of the car accident lawyers in Columbus from the Flickinger Legal Group today.

slip and fall on sidewalk

April showers help the flowers bloom and grass and trees turn green. However, they can also pose a real threat to your physical wellness.

When you have slipped and fell on rain-soaked sidewalks, you have rights as a victim of a slip and fall accident. Rather than tackle the legalities of pursuing justice and compensation on your own, you can hire one of the Columbus OH personal injury lawyers from the Flickinger Legal Group to represent you today.

Proving Responsibility for Your Accident

Property owners are legally required to keep their properties in safe conditions to prevent accidents like yours. Your lawyer can work to prove that the owner of the property on which you fell and got hurt neglected this responsibility. This evidence can convince a judge or jury to side with you and award you damages for your pain, suffering, loss of income and medical bills.

It can also convince the property owner to settle the claim out of court rather than go through an expensive and embarrassing trial. Your lawyer can negotiate with the property owner and his or her insurance company to reach a settlement that is suitable for your punitive and financial damages. You can receive compensation that not only pays for your immediate losses and suffering but also expenses that you could incur in the future because of the accident.

You do not want to initiate or proceed through the legal process alone without a lawyer. You lack the legal finesse and knowledge to convince the property owner to uphold his or her responsibility to you as the accident victim. Your lawyer can use his or her subpoena power and other legal maneuvers to work the case to your advantage.

You can begin building a case after a slip and fall accident on wet sidewalks today. Contact one of the Columbus OH personal injury lawyers from the Flickinger Legal Group today.

motorcycle laws in ohio

When you are riding your motorcycle in Ohio, it is important to know the various laws. Aimed at keeping you safe, they can also be crucial elements should you find yourself involved in an accident. Since most people often initially blame the motorcyclist for an accident, knowing and following Ohio motorcycle laws may protect you in many ways. If you have been involved in an accident while riding your motorcycle, do not hesitate to contact Columbus OH motorcycle accident lawyers at the Flickinger Legal Group.

Wearing Your Helmet

If you are under the age of 18 or have a motorcycle license designating you as a novice, Ohio law requires you to always wear a helmet while riding your motorcycle. While you should always do so to protect yourself from serious injury, it is important to note that if you are involved in an accident while not wearing a helmet, you are still allowed to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Two Motorcycles in One Lane

Due to motorcycles being smaller than motor vehicles, Ohio law does allow two motorcycles to ride side-by-side in the same lane on a road. However, should there be more than two motorcycles riding together in a lane, this is considered an illegal act.

Motorcycle Insurance

Before you ever begin your ride on an Ohio roadway, state law requires you carry motorcycle insurance or be able to show proof of financial responsibility. Should you choose to not carry insurance and instead focus on proof of financial responsibility, you will need to obtain a Bureau of Motor Vehicles certificate stating you have at least $30,000 in cash or bonds deposited with the State Treasurer.

Rather than put yourself at risk of being liable for an accident, always follow Ohio motorcycle laws. Should you need additional advice, consult with Columbus OH motorcycle accident lawyers from the Flickinger Legal Group.

liability insurance

Driving a car on a daily basis is a need for a lot of people in the Columbus, OH area. When you do drive a car, you are going to be obligated to carry liability auto insurance. When you are shopping for an insurance policy, you will find that there are a lot of options when it comes to choosing a liability policy. The amount of liability insurance that you need is dependent on a variety of factors.

Legal Requirements

When you are looking for liability insurance in Ohio, it is important to first consider the state minimum requirements. Similar to other states, Ohio requires that you carry a certain level of coverage. In this state, you need to have bodily injury coverage of $50,000 per incident and $25,000 per person. You will also need property damage liability coverage of at least $25,000 per incident.

Additional Coverage

While these insurance levels are all that you need to drive legally in the state of Ohio, it is not necessarily enough to cover damage that could occur in a bad accident. If you are in an accident that leads to significant damage, you will still be required to pay restitution but will only receive the policy level of insurance coverage. Due to this risk, you should consider getting additional coverage to ensure you are covered in the event the liability costs are more significant.

If you are ever at fault in an auto accident, Columbus car accident lawyers can provide you with great service. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your options. The Flickinger Legal Group is a team of Columbus car accident lawyers that can help to ensure that your rights are properly represented. They can also work with your insurance company to ensure they are honoring your insurance agreement.

motorcycle safety tips

As you ride your motorcycle down the road, you are doing so in the safest possible manner. However, that does not mean you cannot be involved in an accident. Should this happen, you will be dealing with serious injuries, large medical bills, pain and suffering, and an extended absence from your job. Rather than let this happen, here are some of the most common motorcycle safety tips you should keep in mind.

Beware of Distracted Drivers

Perhaps more than anything, motorcyclists who are involved in accidents find their accidents are a result of distracted drivers. Whether a driver is talking or texting on their cellphone or even attempting to eat or apply makeup while behind the wheel, these accidents are clearly the result of negligence and carelessness on the driver’s part. Should you be involved in such an accident, consult with Columbus motorcycle injury attorneys from the Flickinger Legal Group.

Assume Other Drivers Don’t See You

Even though you are clearly visible while on the road riding your motorcycle, always assume other drivers don’t see you. This is crucial, since many accidents take place when motor vehicle drivers make a turn, pull out of a driveway, or pull away from a stop sign. To protect yourself, experts recommend you always look at the front tires of a vehicle and be prepared to take immediate evasive action.

Respect Mother Nature

If you are on your motorcycle after it rains, pay careful attention to the road’s surface. Since it may be slick from vehicle oil or have potholes that may be hidden due to puddles or other debris, always be aware of your surroundings and go just a bit slower during your ride.

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident resulting from the negligence of others, schedule an immediate consultation with Columbus motorcycle injury attorneys at the Flickinger Legal Group.

motorcycle helmet laws

Wearing a helmet as safety equipment is optional for many Ohio motorcyclists, but there are still some who must wear the protective gear as a legal requirement to ride. Anyone under 18 years of age is required to wear a helmet at all times when riding any type of motorcycle, and those who are still operating on a temporary permit will need one also. And while it is true that all others are not necessarily in jeopardy of receiving a ticket for no helmet, it is advisable to wear one anyway for personal safety. Studies have shown that helmets protect the head effectively in many motorcycle crashes. The Columbus Ohio motorcycle accident lawyers at Flickinger Legal Group advise all riders to wear head gear when riding because it not only saves lives, but the fact an injured biker was not wearing a helmet can be a significant issue when trying to collect financial recovery following an accident.

Motorcycle Accident Claim Defenses

Insurance companies who are required to pay damages from a motorcycle accident claim can be relentless in defending against paying benefits because of the Ohio modified comparative negligence law. Luckily, any motorcyclist injured in an accident can recover some amount of financial compensation if their personal comparative negligence percentage is 50% or less. This is ultimately determined by a jury in a trial, and insurance companies use it regularly because any percentage will reduce the amount they are required to pay in benefits.

The Role of Your Personal Injury Attorney

Personal injury attorneys not only represent a claim if it goes to court, but they also negotiate the settlement prior to the court date in most cases. Not wearing a helmet means that insurance providers will commonly force a case to trial in hopes of a minimal payout by claiming the fact no helmet was worn at them time of the mishap is personal contribution to the injury. Your attorney can focus on demanding full payment as well as defend against this claim from the insurer.

Never attempt handling your own accident claim when being involved in a motorcycle accident. Contact the Columbus Ohio motorcycle accident lawyers at Flickinger Legal Group for aggressive representation.