Recreational vehicles (RVs) are significantly larger and heavier than most passenger cars, and collisions involving them often result in serious injuries. If you suffered an injury because of an RV, a concern you likely have is who bears responsibility for what happened.
Liable parties beyond the driver
Fault in an RV accident does not always fall on a single person. Depending on the circumstances, several parties could share legal responsibility for your injuries.
The most obvious party is the RV driver, who may face liability if distracted driving, speeding or impairment played a role in the crash. If the driver operated a rented or borrowed RV, the owner or rental company could also face a claim if they were independently negligent, such as failing to maintain the vehicle or letting an unqualified driver take the wheel.
Liability can also reach beyond those directly involved in the collision. If a mechanical failure such as defective brakes caused the crash, courts could hold the RV manufacturer or a parts supplier responsible.
Ohio’s comparative fault standard
The state operates under a modified comparative negligence system, meaning that the court will reduce your compensation depending on your share of the fault. Plus, you will not be able to recover any damages if you are more than 50% responsible for the accident.
For example, if your total damages amount to $100,000 and you are found 30% at fault, you would receive $70,000. This proportional reduction applies regardless of how many other parties share liability.
Insurance complications in RV claims
Insurance coverage in RV accidents can be more complex than in a typical car crash. A standard auto policy, a specialized RV policy, or a commercial policy may cover the at-fault RV. Each type carries different limits and exclusions.
Ohio requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage, though those limits are often insufficient for serious crashes. When that happens, your own underinsured motorist coverage may fill the gap.
If a rental company or maker shares liability, their commercial policies may offer higher coverage limits. Knowing which types of coverage apply to your case can help you judge whether a settlement offer truly reflects the full extent of your damages.
Critical deadlines for your case
Ohio imposes a two-year deadline from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this window can result in the court dismissing your case, no matter how strong your evidence may be.
Acting sooner rather than later also helps preserve important evidence. Speaking with a personal injury attorney can assist you in collecting all the proof that you might need and guide you throughout the entire process.