Interstate collision in Columbus leaves one victim seriously hurt

Columbus, OH – There were news reports that one person had to be hospitalized with serious injuries following a highway crash in the Columbus area [1].

Interstate 71 crash required emergency response

On September 12, 2023, a traffic incident occurred on Interstate 71 southbound in north Columbus, Ohio, resulting in lane closures and traffic disruptions. The incident, which occurred around 11:45 a.m. near the Weber Road exit, involved two or three vehicles and was caused by equipment falling off a truck, according to the Columbus police.

The Columbus Division of Fire responded to the scene, where they confirmed that one person sustained minor injuries in the accident. The injured individual was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

Due to the crash and the need to clear the scene, I-71 southbound remained closed for several hours. Additionally, both the Interstate 270 westbound and eastbound ramps leading to I-71 southbound were temporarily closed to traffic as a result of the incident, further impacting the flow of vehicles in the area.

As of the time of the report, the situation was still unfolding, and it was labeled as a developing story. The local authorities and emergency responders were actively working to address the aftermath of the accident and manage the traffic disruptions. People were encouraged to stay tuned to 10TV News for any updates and additional information related to the incident.

In summary, a multi-vehicle crash on I-71 southbound near the Weber Road exit in north Columbus, Ohio, occurred due to equipment falling off a truck, resulting in one person being hospitalized with minor injuries and significant traffic disruptions on the affected interstate and its associated ramps. The accident situation was under investigation and subject to further updates.

What kind of financial assistance is available to accident victims under Ohio law?

In Ohio, accident victims in Columbus have access to various forms of financial assistance to help them cope with the aftermath of their injuries and losses. These forms of financial assistance primarily come from insurance coverage, government programs, and legal remedies. Let’s explore some of the key avenues of financial assistance available to accident victims under Ohio law:

Auto Insurance Coverage:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Ohio is an “at-fault” state, but some auto insurance policies offer Personal Injury Protection coverage. PIP helps accident victims pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other accident-related costs, regardless of who was at fault.
- Bodily Injury Liability Coverage: When an accident is caused by another driver’s negligence, their liability insurance should cover the medical expenses, lost income, and other damages incurred by the victim.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault driver is uninsured or lacks sufficient coverage, the victim’s own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help bridge the gap in compensation.
Workers’ Compensation:
- If the accident occurred while the victim was working, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical treatment costs and provide wage replacement for time missed from work due to the injury.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
- For victims with severe injuries that result in disabilities lasting over a year, federal programs like SSDI and SSI can provide financial assistance. These programs offer monthly payments to eligible individuals based on their disability and work history (SSDI) or financial need (SSI).
Medicaid and Medicare:
- Accident victims who meet certain income and eligibility criteria may qualify for Medicaid, which can help cover medical expenses. Those aged 65 and older, or with certain disabilities, may be eligible for Medicare, which can also assist with healthcare costs.
Personal Injury Lawsuits:
- In cases where negligence or misconduct led to the accident, accident victims can pursue personal injury lawsuits against the responsible party. Compensation in such cases can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Victim Compensation Programs:
- Ohio has a Victim Compensation Program that provides financial assistance to victims of violent crimes, including hit-and-run accidents. This program can help cover medical expenses, counseling costs, and even lost wages for victims and their families.
Legal Aid and Pro Bono Services:
- Legal aid organizations and pro bono lawyers may offer free or low-cost legal assistance to accident victims, helping them navigate insurance claims, negotiate settlements, or pursue legal action when necessary.

It’s crucial for accident victims in Ohio to understand their rights and explore all available options for financial assistance. Consulting with an experienced attorney who specializes in personal injury cases can be particularly valuable in ensuring that victims receive the maximum compensation they are entitled to under Ohio accident law. Additionally, promptly reporting accidents to law enforcement and insurance companies is essential to preserving the viability of many of these financial assistance avenues.

Accident attorneys are available in Columbus

USAttorneys.com can provide referrals to local accident lawyers anywhere in the country. They can be called at 800-672-3103

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