Car accidents are stressful, and knowing what to do afterward isn’t always clear. In Ohio, drivers involved in a crash have specific legal obligations—especially when it comes to stopping, assisting the injured, and reporting the incident. Failing to meet these responsibilities can lead to serious legal consequences. At Paulozzi LPA, we’re here to explain exactly what Ohio law requires after an accident, and how following the right steps can protect both your rights and your injury claim.
Under Ohio Revised Code § 4549.02, all drivers involved in a motor vehicle accident are legally required to:
Failing to meet these obligations can result in criminal charges, driver’s license suspension, and civil liability, even if you were not at fault for causing the crash.
Ohio law mandates that drivers involved in an accident provide reasonable assistance to those who are injured. This requirement does not mean you must perform medical procedures or put yourself at risk. Instead, your legal duty includes:
If emergency assistance is needed and cannot be summoned at the scene, offering to transport the injured individual to a medical facility is also considered reasonable.
At Paulozzi LPA, we advise all clients to err on the side of caution—rendering aid can save lives and protect your legal standing.
Even if you were not responsible for causing the accident, you are still legally obligated to stop and render aid if you were involved in the crash. Involvement does not require direct contact—if your vehicle contributed to or was affected by the accident, your legal duties apply.
This means that even if another driver caused the crash, you must remain at the scene, check on others, call for help, and cooperate with law enforcement.
Leaving the scene of an accident—also known as a hit and run—is a criminal offense in Ohio. The severity of the charge depends on the circumstances of the accident:
In addition to criminal consequences, a driver who leaves the scene can face:
Fleeing the scene can seriously jeopardize any legal defense and limit your ability to argue that you were not at fault.
Understanding your legal obligations becomes clearer when we consider everyday situations:
You rear-end another vehicle at a stoplight. Even if the other driver appears uninjured, you must stop, exchange information, and call the police if required. Failing to do so could result in misdemeanor charges.
In a chain-reaction crash, your car sustains minor damage but other vehicles are severely affected. You are still legally required to remain at the scene, assist others, and provide your information.
If you strike a parked or unattended vehicle, Ohio law requires you to leave your name and contact information in a visible location and attempt to notify the vehicle owner. Failing to do this is a violation of ORC § 4549.03.
Your conduct after an accident can affect the outcome of your personal injury claim—whether you are the injured party or the one being accused of causing the crash.
If you fail to stop, offer help, or contact emergency services, it can:
By contrast, if you fulfill your obligations, document the scene, and act responsibly, you strengthen your position in both insurance negotiations and court.
At Paulozzi LPA, we guide our clients through every step—from ensuring compliance with Ohio law to building strong, fact-based claims that withstand scrutiny.
There are situations where a driver may be physically or mentally unable to provide aid due to:
In such cases, the law takes reasonableness into account. If you are unable to help directly, you must do everything within your power to notify authorities and ensure assistance is on the way.
Failing to take any action can still expose you to legal consequences.
Beyond stopping and rendering aid, Ohio drivers must also:
These steps not only fulfill your legal obligations but also provide the documentation necessary to support a personal injury or property damage claim.
At Paulozzi LPA, we have represented clients across Ohio in a wide range of car accident cases. We understand that the moments after a crash are filled with uncertainty and anxiety. Our role is to bring clarity and direction to the process.
When you work with us, you gain:
Whether you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, or accusations of fault, we stand by your side with clear legal guidance and tireless advocacy.
If you were involved in a crash and have questions about your legal responsibilities—or if you were injured by someone who failed to meet theirs—contact Paulozzi LPA. We are committed to ensuring that every client receives the support, representation, and justice they deserve. Contact us to schedule an appointment or call us today! We proudly serve clients throughout Ohio and are ready to stand up for your rights.
