Future Damages in Ohio
In Ohio, you are entitled to recover not just your current losses but also the present value of future medical expenses and lost earning capacity caused by your injuries. These future damages often represent the largest component of a serious injury claim.
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.
Modified comparative fault (51% bar)
Fault System
2 years
Filing Deadline
At-Fault
Auto System
Types of Future Damages in Ohio
Future Medical Expenses
Cost of ongoing treatment, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, home care, and medical equipment you will need because of your injuries.
Lost Future Earning Capacity
The present value of income you will lose if your injury permanently or partially prevents you from working at your pre-accident capacity.
Future Pain & Suffering
Ohio allows recovery of future non-economic damages under modified comparative fault (51% bar) — reduced by your share of fault.
Future Loss of Enjoyment
Compensation for activities, hobbies, and life experiences you will permanently lose due to your injuries.
Ohio Injury Law
Ohio applies modified comparative fault with a 51% bar. The 2-year statute of limitations applies to most personal injury claims. Ohio does not require no-fault PIP insurance. Ohio's manufacturing heritage and dense industrial base create significant product liability and workplace injury litigation. Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati courts handle substantial personal injury caseloads. Ohio has no general cap on noneconomic compensatory damages for most personal injury cases, though medical malpractice noneconomic damages are capped at $250,000 or three times economic damages, up to $350,000 per plaintiff, under Ohio Rev. Code § 2323.43. Ohio caps punitive damages at 2 times compensatory damages under Ohio Rev. Code § 2315.21, with a maximum of $350,000 for small defendants. Ohio courts follow Daubert standards for expert testimony. Workers' compensation in Ohio is administered through the Bureau of Workers' Compensation. Ohio's political scene has seen ongoing tort reform debates affecting various damage caps and procedural rules.