How to File a Claim with the City of Columbus

There are three types of claims; 1. Property Damage, 2. Vehicle Damage, 3. Personal Injury. If you believe you have one of these three types of claims follow these steps.

Step 1

If you have insurance (auto or medical) according to Ohio Law 2744 you must, submit all medical bills and vehicle damage bills to your insurance company first before filing a claim with the City of Columbus. If this is an auto accident you will need to submit two (2) damage estimates.

Step 2

Call the Department or Division of the City with whom you were involved in the accident with or who caused the property damage or personal injury. When you call ask for the Safety or Claims office. (A list of the Department and Division phone numbers are listed below). Always file your claim with the Department or Division first. They will begin the investigation into your claim. During this investigation you will be asked to provide information concerning your auto insurance coverage, auto title information and medical coverage. If your claim is greater than $2500, the Department or Division will forward your claim to the City Attorney’s Office who will begin their investigation.

Step 3

When the investigation is complete and if it is found that the City of Columbus is liable for any portion of your costs, we will process the necessary paperwork for you to receive payment. This process may take 4 – 6 weeks.

If you have any questions concerning your claim or this procedure, first, call the Department directly involved at one of the numbers listed above, or second, call the City Attorney’s Claims Section and ask for:

Leslie Chappelear
614-645-7984 direct
e-mail: lchappelear@columbus.gov

To Download a copy of the various claims forms, or fill out an electronic copy, please see the links below