Sobo & Sobo is Cleveland, Ohio’s top-rated personal injury firm. With over 50 years of experience, and a 98% success rate with accepted cases, we are dedicated to providing you with the highest-quality legal representation in the area. Our skilled injury lawyers are here to help you with personal injury, premises liability, and car accident claims. Reach out to one of our attorneys to hear how we can provide the best results, with personalized attention.
Visit Cleveland’s Top-Rated
Personal Injury Firm
Contact Info
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Address2217 East 9th Street
Cleveland, OH 44115 -
Telephone 855‑468‑7626
Types of Injury Claims We Win In Cleveland
Here are some of the most common types of injury cases we cover:
We manage cases involving various types of car accidents, including rear-end collisions on I-90, side-impact crashes at busy intersections like Euclid Avenue and East 9th Street, head-on collisions, and multi-vehicle pile-ups on highways like I-71. Our car accident attorneys work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Recent Injury Settlements Won in Cleveland, OH
- Downtown Cleveland: Car accident resulting in severe injuries – $700,000 settlement
- Ohio City: Slip and fall in a grocery store – $450,000 settlement
- Lakewood: Pedestrian accident resulting in multiple fractures – $600,000 settlement
- Tremont: Bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver – $500,000 settlement
- Shaker Heights: Dog bite resulting in significant scarring – $350,000 settlement
- University Circle: Car accident involving a distracted driver – $750,000 settlement
- West Park: Slip and fall on an icy sidewalk – $470,000 settlement
- Glenville: Hit and run resulting in severe injuries – $700,000 settlement
- Detroit-Shoreway: Car accident caused by drunk driving – $800,000 settlement
- Collinwood: Premises liability case involving unsafe conditions – $650,000 settlement
- Old Brooklyn: Motorcycle accident resulting in traumatic brain injury – $750,000 settlement
- Clark-Fulton: Child injured in a playground accident – $300,000 settlement
- East Cleveland: Nursing home negligence case – $550,000 settlement
- Fairview Park: Construction accident leading to severe back injuries – $650,000 settlement
- Broadway-Slavic Village: Car accident with a commercial truck – $800,000 settlement
Disclaimer: The above examples are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee similar outcomes.
How Our Cleveland Injury
Attorneys Help You
When you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, navigating the legal landscape can be overwhelming. What sets us apart from other injury law firms is our personalized approach, extensive resources, and unwavering commitment to our clients. Our Cleveland injury attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way, providing comprehensive support to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Here’s how we help:
Free Initial Consultation & Case Evaluation
Our process begins with a free initial consultation. During this meeting, we listen to your story, gather essential details about your case, and answer any questions you may have. This helps us understand the specifics of your situation and determine the best course of action.
Investigation
Once we take on your case, our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation. This includes collecting evidence such as accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. We also work with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, to build a strong case on your behalf.
Legal Strategy
Based on the findings of our investigation, we develop a personalized legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. Our goal is to maximize your compensation by clearly demonstrating the extent of your injuries and the negligence of the responsible party.
Communication with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting. Our attorneys handle all communications with the insurers, ensuring that your rights are protected. We negotiate aggressively to secure a fair settlement, preventing the insurance companies from taking advantage of you during this vulnerable time.
Medical Coordination
We assist in coordinating your medical care, helping you find the right doctors and specialists to treat your injuries. Our attorneys work closely with your healthcare providers to ensure that your treatment is well-documented and that all necessary medical evidence is gathered for your case.
Settlement Negotiation
Our primary goal is to obtain a fair settlement without the need for a lengthy trial. We use our negotiation skills and legal experience to reach a settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We keep you informed throughout the negotiation process, ensuring that you understand your options and the implications of any offers.
Trial Representation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial. We have extensive courtroom experience and are skilled in presenting compelling arguments to a judge and jury. We will advocate passionately on your behalf, striving to achieve the best possible outcome.
Post-Settlement Support
Our support doesn’t end once your case is resolved. We assist you in managing your settlement, ensuring that you receive the funds you are entitled to and advising you on any necessary steps to protect your financial future. If ongoing medical care is required, we help you navigate the complexities of long-term treatment plans.
Continuous Updates and Communication
We understand the importance of clear and regular communication. Throughout your case, we provide continuous updates and are always available to answer your questions. You will never feel left in the dark about the status of your case or the next steps in the process.
By offering this comprehensive suite of services, our Cleveland injury attorneys are committed to making the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We fight tirelessly to ensure that you receive the best legal support possible, so you can focus on your recovery and moving forward with your life.
How Our Cleveland Personal Injury
Lawyers Are Paid
If you hire one of our personal injury lawyers in Cleveland, you don’t have to worry about upfront costs or hourly rates. Instead, these lawyers work on a basis where their payment depends on the success of your case. This means they receive a portion of the settlement or award you receive, and only if they win your case.
This approach ensures that anyone, regardless of financial situation, can access high-quality legal representation without the burden of paying out of pocket. Your lawyer’s motivation is aligned with yours: to secure the best possible outcome for your claim. If they don’t win, you owe nothing, giving you peace of mind and confidence in their commitment to your case.
Free Case Evaluations
for Cleveland, OH Residents
Our Cleveland injury lawyers have extensive experience and a proven track record of winning cases throughout Ohio. We are committed to getting you the maximum compensation while making the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Call us at 855-468-7626 or contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation. Let us guide you through your legal journey and work towards “Winning Together.”
Damages Covered in
Cleveland Injury Settlements
In a personal injury settlement, the goal is to compensate the injured party for the various losses they have incurred as a result of the accident. In Cleveland, these damages can be categorized into several types. Understanding these categories can help you know what to expect and ensure that you seek full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Medical Expenses
Medical expenses cover the cost of treatment related to the injury. This can include:
- Emergency Room Visits: Initial treatment and stabilization after the accident.
- Hospital Stays: Costs associated with being admitted to the hospital for further care.
- Surgeries: Any necessary surgical procedures to treat your injuries.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy and other rehabilitation services to aid in recovery.
- Medications: Prescription and over-the-counter drugs needed for treatment and pain management.
- Future Medical Care: Anticipated future medical expenses related to ongoing treatment.
Lost Wages
If your injury has caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for lost wages. This includes:
- Current Lost Wages: Income you have already lost due to being unable to work.
- Future Lost Wages: Estimated income you will lose if your injury prevents you from working in the future.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: Compensation for a reduction in your ability to earn income in the future, even if you are able to work in some capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages are intended to compensate you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. These damages can be more subjective and may include:
- Physical Pain: Chronic pain and discomfort resulting from the injury.
- Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, and other emotional impacts of the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in activities and hobbies you once enjoyed.
Property Damage
If your personal property was damaged in the accident, such as your car in a vehicle collision, you can seek compensation for repairs or replacement.
Loss of Consortium
In some cases, a spouse or family member may seek damages for loss of consortium. This refers to the negative impact the injury has had on their relationship with the injured party, including loss of companionship, support, and affection.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. However, punitive damages are less common and require a higher burden of proof.
Legal Fees and Costs
Many injury settlements will also cover the legal fees and costs associated with pursuing the claim. This can include court costs, attorney fees, and other related expenses.
Understanding the various types of damages covered in Cleveland injury settlements can help you ensure that you are seeking comprehensive compensation for your losses. Our experienced personal injury lawyers can help you identify all potential damages in your case and fight for the full compensation you deserve. If you have been injured, contact us to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.
Why Cleveland Chooses
Sobo & Sobo Personal Injury Law
When it comes to personal injury law in Cleveland, Sobo & Sobo stands out as a trusted choice for many. Here’s why Cleveland residents choose us for their personal injury needs:
Proven Track Record
With decades of experience and a history of successful case outcomes, Sobo & Sobo has established a reputation for achieving significant settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our proven track record demonstrates our commitment to obtaining the best possible results.
Personalized Attention
At Sobo & Sobo, we understand that each case is unique. We provide personalized attention to every client, taking the time to understand your specific circumstances and needs. This individualized approach ensures that we tailor our legal strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes for you.
Experienced Team
Our team of skilled personal injury lawyers has extensive experience in handling a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, slip and falls, and more. Our collective experience allows us to navigate the complexities of personal injury law effectively and efficiently.
Compassionate Advocacy
We are dedicated to not only representing you legally but also supporting you emotionally through what can be a challenging time. Our compassionate approach means we are always available to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the support you need throughout the legal process.
Comprehensive Legal Services
Sobo & Sobo offers a full suite of legal services to address all aspects of your personal injury case. From initial consultation and investigation to negotiation and trial representation, we handle every step of the process, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Client-Centered Approach
Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We prioritize your needs and work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Our client-centered approach has earned us the trust and loyalty of many Cleveland residents.
Accessibility and Communication
We believe in maintaining open lines of communication with our clients. You will always be kept informed about the progress of your case, and our team is readily available to answer any questions you may have. We strive to make the legal process as transparent and stress-free as possible.
Strong Local Presence
Being deeply rooted in the Cleveland community, we have a strong understanding of the local legal landscape and the specific challenges that residents may face. Our local presence allows us to provide more effective and relevant legal representation.
No Upfront Fees
At Sobo & Sobo, we operate on a basis where you don’t pay any upfront fees. We only get paid if we win your case, ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.
Choosing the right personal injury lawyer is crucial to the success of your case. Cleveland chooses Sobo & Sobo for our experience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our clients. If you’ve been injured and need legal assistance, contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation and let us help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Cleveland, OH Injury Statute of Limitations
Personal injury cases in Cleveland, OH, are subject to specific statutes of limitations, which determine the deadlines for filing lawsuits. In Ohio, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the incident. If you do not file within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation. These statutes cover various injury claims, including car accidents, slip and falls, pedestrian accidents, and other cases where negligence leads to injury.
There may be exceptions to these deadlines depending on the unique circumstances of your case. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand whether any exceptions apply to your situation.
Before Meeting Your
Cleveland Injury Lawyer
Preparing for your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer can help ensure that you get the most out of your consultation and set a strong foundation for your case. While many of the following tasks can be handled by your lawyer, if you want to get a head start, here’s what you can do:
Gather Relevant Documents
Bring all relevant documents that pertain to your accident and injuries. These may include:
- Accident Reports: Police reports or incident reports that detail the circumstances of your accident.
- Medical Records: Documentation of your injuries, treatments, and any ongoing medical care.
- Photographs: Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Insurance Information: Copies of your insurance policy, any correspondence with insurance companies, and details of any claims filed.
- Witness Information: Contact information and statements from any witnesses to the accident.
Write Down Your Account of the Accident
Prepare a detailed written account of the accident while it’s still fresh in your mind. Include:
- Date, Time, and Location: When and where the accident occurred.
- Events Leading Up to the Accident: What you were doing just before the accident happened.
- Description of the Accident: How the accident occurred and what you experienced.
- Injuries and Symptoms: Any immediate injuries and symptoms you noticed following the accident.
List Questions for Your Lawyer
Think about what you want to ask your lawyer during the meeting. Some questions might include:
- What is your experience with cases similar to mine?
- What are the potential outcomes of my case?
- How long do you expect my case to take?
- What steps will we need to take next?
Understand Your Goals
Consider what you hope to achieve by filing a personal injury claim. This might include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. Being clear about your goals can help your lawyer develop a strategy that aligns with your needs.
Be Prepared to Discuss Your Case Honestly
Your lawyer will need an accurate and honest account of the accident and your injuries to effectively represent you. Be prepared to discuss all aspects of your case openly, including any prior injuries or accidents, and any actions you’ve taken since the accident.
By taking these steps before meeting your Cleveland personal injury lawyer, you’ll be well-prepared to provide them with the information they need to assess your case and advise you on the best course of action. This preparation will help your lawyer build a strong case on your behalf and work towards achieving the compensation you deserve.
Ohio State Policies
for Car Accident Lawsuits
Car accident lawsuits can be different from other types of injury lawsuits due to state-specific laws regarding negligence and at-fault determinations. Here’s an overview of what you should understand about these unique aspects and how they affect your case.
Comparative Negligence
Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be complex, especially when determining fault. Ohio follows a legal doctrine known as comparative negligence, which plays a crucial role in how compensation is awarded in personal injury cases. Here’s what you need to know about comparative negligence in Ohio:
What is Comparative Negligence?
Comparative negligence is a legal principle that allocates fault among parties involved in an accident. Under this rule, each party’s level of fault is assessed and damages are adjusted accordingly. This means that if you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Ohio’s Modified Comparative Negligence Rule
Ohio uses a modified comparative negligence rule, specifically the “51% Bar Rule.” According to this rule, you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
How It Works in Practice
Imagine you are involved in a car accident where you are found to be 20% at fault because you were slightly speeding, while the other driver is 80% at fault for running a red light. If your total damages amount to $100,000, your compensation would be reduced by your 20% fault, resulting in a $80,000 recovery.
Importance of Accurate Fault Assessment
Accurately determining the degree of fault is crucial in personal injury cases. Insurance companies and legal representatives will investigate the circumstances of the accident, including examining evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos. An experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure that fault is assessed accurately and fairly, protecting your right to maximum compensation.
Impact on Settlements and Lawsuits
Comparative negligence can significantly impact settlement negotiations and lawsuit outcomes. Insurance companies often try to attribute a higher percentage of fault to reduce their payout. Having a knowledgeable attorney can help you counteract these tactics and ensure a fair assessment of fault.
Legal Assistance and Advocacy
Understanding and navigating comparative negligence requires extensive legal experience. A skilled personal injury lawyer can advocate on your behalf, gather and present evidence, and argue your case effectively. They can help ensure that fault is properly apportioned and that you receive the compensation you deserve, despite any partial fault.
Cleveland’s At-Fault System
for Car Accident Victims
Unlike states with a no-fault insurance system, Ohio, including Cleveland, follows an at-fault or tort system for car accidents. This means that if you are injured in a car accident, the driver who is found to be at fault is responsible for covering your medical expenses, property damage, and other losses.
Here’s what you need to know about the at-fault system in Cleveland:
Determining Fault
After a car accident, fault is determined based on the circumstances of the collision. Evidence such as police reports from the Cleveland Police Department, witness statements, and traffic camera footage can be crucial in establishing who was responsible.
Filing a Claim
As a victim, you have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This claim can cover various damages, including medical bills from local hospitals like Cleveland Clinic, lost wages if you are unable to work, and repair costs for your vehicle.
Seeking Additional Damages
In addition to economic damages, you can also seek compensation for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. Unlike no-fault states, Ohio does not have strict injury thresholds you must meet to sue for these damages.
Insurance Requirements
Ohio law requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover bodily injury and property damage. However, these minimums may not be sufficient to cover all expenses in a serious accident. It is advisable to consider additional coverage options like uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Comparative Fault
Ohio follows a comparative fault rule. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
Legal Assistance
Navigating the at-fault system can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize their payouts. Our Cleveland personal injury lawyers are here to guide you through the process, ensuring you receive fair compensation. We help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if necessary.
Prompt Action
It is crucial to act quickly after an accident. Ohio has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which is typically two years from the date of the accident. Delaying your claim can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation.
Slip & Fall Lawsuits in Cleveland, OH
Slip and fall accidents are a common type of personal injury case that falls under the category of premises liability. These lawsuits arise when someone is injured due to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property. Property owners and managers have a legal duty to maintain safe environments for visitors, and when they fail to do so, they can be held liable for resulting injuries.
What Are Slip & Fall Lawsuits?
Slip and fall lawsuits involve cases where an individual slips, trips, or falls on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, poorly maintained walkways, or inadequate lighting. These accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, sprains, head injuries, and back injuries.
Premises Liability
Slip and fall cases are a subset of premises liability law. Premises liability holds property owners and occupiers responsible for maintaining a safe environment. If they neglect this duty and someone is injured as a result, the injured party can file a lawsuit to seek compensation for their injuries.
How Premises Liability Works
To succeed in a premises liability claim, the injured party must prove that:
- The property owner or occupier owed a duty of care: This means they had a legal obligation to keep the property reasonably safe.
- There was a breach of that duty: The owner or occupier failed to maintain the property, creating unsafe conditions.
- The breach caused the injury: The hazardous condition directly led to the slip and fall accident.
- Damages resulted from the injury: The injury led to medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other compensable damages.
Common Locations for Slip & Fall Accidents in Cleveland
Slip and fall accidents can occur anywhere, but some of the most common places in Cleveland include:
- West Side Market: Spilled liquids and crowded aisles can create slip hazards.
- Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: Wet floors near entrances and terminals can lead to falls.
- Tower City Center: Inadequate maintenance and slippery floors in the shopping mall can cause accidents.
- Local Restaurants and Cafes: Spills and slippery floors are frequent in dining establishments, especially in areas like Ohio City and Tremont.
- Public Sidewalks and Parking Lots: Cracks, potholes, and ice, particularly in winter, can make these areas dangerous.
- Apartment Complexes in University Circle: Poorly maintained stairwells, walkways, and common areas can cause accidents.
Slip and fall accidents can happen in various locations, each posing unique hazards. Our Cleveland slip and fall lawyers have over 50 years of experience holding property owners accountable for negligence and securing fair compensation for injury victims. If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact us to discuss your case and learn how we can help you.
Cleveland, OH Injury Statistics
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Annual Injuries: Approximately 3,500 reported injuries annually.
- Common Injuries: The most common types of injuries include car accidents, slip and falls, and construction accidents.
- Accident Locations: The downtown area and major highways, such as I-90 and I-71, are the most frequent locations for accidents.
- Bicycle Accidents: There has been a 25% increase in bicycle accidents over the past five years, primarily occurring in neighborhoods like Ohio City and Tremont.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Pedestrian accidents account for 30% of all reported injuries, with the highest incidence in the Downtown and University Circle areas.
- Construction Accidents: Construction sites see a high rate of injuries, with over 700 cases reported annually.
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Slip and Fall Accidents: Slip and fall accidents in retail and commercial properties constitute about 35% of personal injury cases, with the Downtown and West Park areas reporting the highest numbers.
