Oregon car accident injury lawyers

Separate the injury claim from the vehicle claim.

A repair estimate does not describe what an injury has done to your life. Treatment, missed work, changes in your abilities and the need for future care may require their own evidence. Keep medical and insurance correspondence, a record of time away from work and the names of people who saw the collision.

Preserve original photographs and messages. If a business, vehicle or nearby camera may have recorded the event, tell your lawyer promptly so the possibility of preserving that evidence can be evaluated.

Identify the different insurance coverages.

Liability coverage, personal injury protection and uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage address different questions. Do not assume the other driver’s insurer is the only company that should be notified.

Oregon’s insurance regulator explains that personal injury protection (PIP) covers qualifying medical expenses, subject to limits and a two-year period. Review your own policy and the insurer’s explanation of benefits rather than assuming every bill will be paid. See the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation’s auto insurance FAQs.

If the responsible driver lacks insurance or has inadequate limits, UM or UIM coverage may warrant review. If you were working at the time, a workers’ compensation claim may also be involved.

Before responding to a settlement offer.

Ask which claims a proposed release would resolve, which parties it covers and whether other insurers have rights that need attention. Share the actual release and all relevant policies with counsel. A payment amount alone does not explain the consequences of signing.

Deadlines depend on the claim and the parties. Do not wait to seek advice simply because an insurer is still investigating or communicating with you.

What helps us assess the next step?

• The crash date, location and any available report number.
• Photos, witness names and the vehicles or companies involved.
• Your insurance declarations pages and claim correspondence.
• A description of your injuries, treatment and work limitations.

Our after-a-crash checklist includes Oregon reporting information. Contact our Eugene or Portland office to discuss your situation.