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Portland Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Find out why we are one of the best motorcycle accident law firms in Portland
Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Millions Recovered for Our Clients All Over the United States.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle crash, you will need the help of an experienced Portland motorcycle accident lawyer. At Goldberg & Loren, our team of legal professionals has over 30 years of experience fighting for the rights of injured motorcyclists.
We know how to get you the compensation you deserve following an accident, and we will work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome.
No one should have to go through the aftermath of a motorcycle accident alone, and we will be there for you every step of the way.
Contact us today by calling (971) 366-2792 to schedule a free consultation. We will review your case and help you understand your legal options. Let us fight for you while you focus on healing.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents We Handle in Portland, Oregon
In Portland, motorcycle accidents can be caused in various ways. Here are several types of motorcycle accidents that commonly occur in Portland, Oregon:
- Lane Splitting Accidents: Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, typically in congested areas. Accidents can happen if drivers fail to see the motorcyclist or make sudden lane changes without checking for nearby motorcycles.
- Rear-End Collisions: Motorcyclists are vulnerable to being rear-ended by larger vehicles, especially at intersections or in heavy traffic. Drivers may fail to notice a motorcycle in front of them or misjudge their braking distance, resulting in a collision.
- Left-Turn Accidents: Left-turn accidents occur when a motorist makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, often misjudging the motorcycle’s speed or failing to yield the right of way. These accidents can result in T-bone collisions or the motorcyclist being forced to lay down their bike to avoid a crash.
- Intersection Accidents: Intersections are high-risk areas for motorcycle accidents, particularly when drivers fail to yield, run red lights, or make unsafe lane changes. Motorcyclists may also be involved in accidents with vehicles making right turns without checking for oncoming motorcycles.
- Dooring Accidents: Dooring accidents occur when a motorcyclist collides with a car door that has been suddenly opened into their path, typically in urban areas with parallel parking. These accidents can cause serious injuries if the motorcyclist is unable to react in time to avoid the collision.
- Road Hazard Accidents: Poor road conditions, such as potholes, debris, uneven pavement, or slippery surfaces, pose significant risks to motorcyclists. These hazards can cause a motorcyclist to lose control of their bike or be thrown from the saddle, resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.
- Distracted Driving Accidents: Accidents involving distracted driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio, can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. A distracted driver may fail to see a motorcycle in their blind spot or fail to react in time to avoid a collision.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Accidents: Motorcycle accidents involving impaired drivers pose a significant risk to motorcyclists. Impaired drivers may exhibit erratic behavior, swerve into adjacent lanes, or fail to obey traffic signals, increasing the likelihood of a collision with a motorcycle.
- Single-Vehicle Accidents: Motorcyclists can also be involved in accidents where no other vehicles are present, such as losing control on a curve, hitting an object in the road, or experiencing a mechanical failure. These accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities, particularly if the motorcyclist is ejected from the bike.
Consulting with our experienced personal injury attorney in Portland can help you understand your rights and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses resulting from a motorcycle accident.
Dangerous Roads for Riders in Portland
Portland has some beautiful roads to drive, but some of them are more treacherous than others. Here are some dangerous roads to be careful on:
- Highway 26 & I-405
- Highway 213 & SE Taggart
- Highway 26 & SE 28th
- I-5 and Highway 30
- Highway 26 & SE 38th
- Milepost 300 on I-5
- Highway 213 & SE Insley
- Milepost 73 on Highway 26
- Highway 30 & N Greenwich
- Exit 302A on I-5
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Portland, Oregon?
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Portland, Oregon, take certain steps to ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and seek appropriate medical attention. Here’s what to do after a motorcycle accident in Portland:
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is injured, immediately call 911 to request emergency medical assistance.
- Move to Safety: If it’s safe to do so and you’re able to move, move yourself and your motorcycle to a safe location to avoid further risk of injury from oncoming traffic.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration information with the other parties involved in the accident. Be sure to obtain names, addresses, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy numbers.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Report the Accident: Call the Portland Police Bureau’s non-emergency line at (503) 823-3333 to report the accident. A police officer will arrive at the scene to document the accident, gather information from all parties involved, and create an official report.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t believe you’re seriously injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible and provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident. Follow their instructions for filing a claim and providing any necessary documentation.
- Consult With Our Attorney: Consider consulting with our personal injury attorneys who are experienced in handling motorcycle accident cases in Portland. Goldberg & Loren can help protect your legal rights, navigate the claims process, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
- Follow-up on Medical Treatment: Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider and follow their recommended treatment plan. Keep detailed records of your medical expenses, including bills, receipts, and records of any prescribed medications or therapies.
- Stay Informed: Stay informed about your rights and responsibilities throughout the claims process. Our motorcycle accident lawyer will provide guidance and support to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your case.
- Be Cautious with Statements: Avoid discussing fault or admitting liability at the accident scene or when speaking with insurance adjusters. Stick to the facts and avoid making any statements that could be used against you later in the claims process.
- Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident, including damaged clothing, motorcycle parts, and medical records. This evidence can be key in proving liability and securing fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
By following these steps after a motorcycle accident in Portland, you can protect your health, safeguard your legal rights, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Seeking Compensation in Motorcycle Accidents
In Oregon, you can seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages if you have been injured in a motorcycle accident.
This includes damages for:
- Medical Bills: Economic damages cover all past, current, and future medical expenses related to the treatment of injuries sustained in the motorcycle accident. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, doctor’s visits, prescription medications, rehabilitation, physical therapy, assistive devices, and any other necessary medical care.
- Lost Wages: Economic damages also encompass compensation for lost wages due to the victim’s inability to work as a result of motorcycle accident injuries. This includes wages lost during the recovery period, as well as any future loss of earning capacity if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability that impacts the victim’s ability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages cover the physical pain and suffering endured by the victim as a result of the motorcycle accident injuries. This includes compensation for the actual pain experienced, and any discomfort, inconvenience, or limitations on daily activities caused by the injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Non-economic damages also include compensation for the emotional distress and mental anguish suffered by the victim due to the motorcycle accident. This may include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia, or other psychological symptoms resulting from the trauma of the accident and its aftermath.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Non-economic damages further encompass compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life experienced by the victim as a result of motorcycle accident injuries. This includes the inability to participate in activities and hobbies enjoyed prior to the accident, as well as any restrictions on social interactions and quality of life resulting from the injuries.
Economic damages are completely uncapped in Oregon. However, Oregon law caps non-economic damages to $500,000 in some personal injury claims. [1]
If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you may also be able to file a wrongful death claim. This can help you recover damages for funeral expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship.
Table of Contents
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Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
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Types of Motorcycle Accidents We Handle in Portland, Oregon
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Dangerous Roads in Portland
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What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Portland, Oregon?
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Seeking Compensation in Motorcycle Accidents
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Types of Motorcycle Injuries
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Statute of Limitations on Motorcycle Accidents in Portland
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How to Prove Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident in Portland?
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What Type of Evidence Is Useful?
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Can I Still File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Portland if I'm Partially at Fault?
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Contact Our Portland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Types of Motorcycle Injuries
In 2021, eight individuals lost their lives in motorcycle accidents in Portland. [2]
Motorcycling is a thrilling and liberating mode of transportation, offering riders a sense of freedom and adventure on the open road. However, the exhilaration of riding comes with inherent risks, as motorcyclists are more vulnerable to accidents and injuries than occupants of enclosed vehicles.
Here are some common motorcycle injuries reported:
- Abrasions
- Amputations
- Burns
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Concussions
- Contusions
- Crush Injuries
- Dental Injuries
- Degloving Injuries
- Dislocations
- Eye Injuries
- Facial Injuries
- Fractures
- Hematomas
- Internal Organ Damage
- Joint Injuries
- Lacerations
- Ligament and Tendon Injuries
- Muscle Strains and Tears
- Nerve Damage
- Pelvic Fractures
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Retinal Detachments
- Rib Fractures
- Road Debris Injuries
- Road Rash
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Whiplash
Statute of Limitations on Motorcycle Accidents in Portland
In Oregon, the Statute of Limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from motorcycle accidents, is typically two years from the date of the accident. [3]
This means that individuals who have been injured in a motorcycle accident generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for their injuries and losses.
The Statute of Limitations serves as a legal deadline, and failing to file a lawsuit within the specified time frame can result in the loss of the right to seek compensation through the court system. There can be exceptions or variations to the standard Statute of Limitations depending on the specific circumstances of the case. For example:
- Discovery Rule: In cases where the injury resulting from the motorcycle accident was not immediately apparent or was discovered later, the Statute of Limitations may begin to run from the date the injury was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.
- Minority Tolling: If the victim of the motorcycle accident was a minor (under 18 years old) at the time of the accident, the Statute of Limitations may be tolled (paused) until they reach the age of majority (18 years old), after which they will have the standard two-year period to file a lawsuit.
- Government Claims: If the motorcycle accident involved a government entity or employee, such as a city, county, or state agency, there may be specific notice requirements and shorter deadlines for filing a claim.
It’s essential to be aware of these deadlines and comply with any procedural requirements to preserve the right to pursue compensation.
How to Prove Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident in Portland?
In order to recover compensation in a motorcycle accident case, you will need to prove that the other driver was negligent. Negligence is defined as the failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonable person would in a similar situation. There are four elements that must be proven in order to establish negligence:
- Duty of Care: You must show that the defendant owed you a duty of care. In the context of a motorcycle accident, this typically means that the defendant (usually another driver) had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely and reasonably to avoid causing harm to others, including motorcyclists.
- Breach of Duty: Then, prove that the defendant breached the duty of care owed. This involves showing that the defendant’s actions or failure to act fell below the standard of care expected of a reasonable person in similar circumstances. For example, the defendant may have breached their duty of care by speeding, running a red light, or engaging in distracted driving.
- Causation: Establish a causal connection between the defendant’s breach of duty and your injuries. In other words, show that the defendant’s negligent actions directly caused or substantially contributed to the motorcycle accident and resulting harm.
- Damages: Finally, the plaintiff must demonstrate that they suffered actual damages as a result of the defendant’s negligence. These damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other losses incurred due to the motorcycle accident.
If you can prove that the other driver was negligent, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries.
What Type of Evidence Is Useful?
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the evidence that may be used to prove negligence in a motorcycle accident case in Portland:
- Police Reports: Police reports are official documents prepared by law enforcement officers who respond to the scene of the accident. These reports typically contain important details about the accident, including the date, time, and location of the incident, statements from the parties involved and witnesses, a description of the road and weather conditions, any citations issued, and preliminary assessments of fault.
- Eyewitness Testimony: Eyewitness testimony from individuals who witnessed the accident can provide valuable firsthand accounts of what happened. Witness statements may corroborate or contradict the accounts provided by the parties involved and help establish the sequence of events leading up to the accident.
- Photographs of the Accident Scene and Vehicle Damage: Photographs taken at the accident scene can serve as compelling visual evidence of the conditions at the time of the accident, the positions of the vehicles involved, any road hazards or obstructions, and the extent of vehicle damage. These photographs can help reconstruct the accident and illustrate key factors relevant to determining liability.
- Accident Reconstruction Analysis: Accident reconstruction analysis involves using scientific methods and principles to recreate the circumstances of the accident. Accident reconstruction experts may use physical evidence, witness statements, vehicle damage assessments, and other data to reconstruct the accident and determine factors such as vehicle speeds, points of impact, and contributing factors.
- Medical Records Documenting Injuries: Medical records documenting the injuries sustained by the plaintiff are crucial evidence in establishing the extent of harm caused by the accident. These records may include medical diagnoses, treatment plans, surgical reports, rehabilitation notes, and other documentation from healthcare providers detailing the plaintiff’s injuries, prognosis, and ongoing medical needs.
- Expert Witness Testimony: Expert witness testimony from qualified professionals, such as accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals, can provide specialized knowledge and opinions relevant to the case. Accident reconstruction experts may offer insights into the mechanics of the accident, while medical professionals can testify about the nature and severity of the plaintiff’s injuries and the impact on their lives.
- Cell Phone Records or Other Evidence of Distracted Driving: If distracted driving is suspected as a contributing factor in the accident, cell phone records or other evidence of driver distraction may be obtained and analyzed. This evidence can help establish whether the defendant was engaged in activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or using mobile apps at the time of the accident.
- Traffic Citations or Criminal Charges Against the Defendant: Traffic citations issued to the defendant or any criminal charges brought against them in connection with the accident can serve as evidence of negligence. Citations for traffic violations, such as speeding, running a red light, or following too closely, may indicate negligent behavior on the part of the defendant.
By compiling and presenting this evidence effectively, you can build a strong case to prove negligence and establish liability for damages in a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Portland. Working with our experienced personal injury attorneys who understand the importance of evidence in these cases can significantly enhance the chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
Can I Still File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Portland if I'm Partially at Fault?
Yes, you may still be able to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Portland, Oregon, even if you are partially at fault for the accident. Oregon follows a modified comparative fault system, which allows injured parties to seek compensation for their damages as long as they are not found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident. [4]
Here’s how the modified comparative fault system works:
- Comparative Fault: Under this system, the total amount of damages awarded to the injured party is reduced by their percentage of fault for the accident. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident and your total damages amount to $100,000, your compensation would be reduced by 20%, and you would receive $80,000.
- Threshold for Recovery: In Oregon, you can only recover damages if you are determined to be 50% or less at fault for the accident. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you will not be eligible to receive any compensation for your damages.
Contact Our Portland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Are you in need of legal representation after a motorcycle accident in Portland? Look no further than Goldberg & Loren, where our dedicated team of attorneys stands ready to advocate for your rights.
- Experienced Attorneys: Our firm boasts a team of highly experienced attorneys with a combined experience of over 30 years in handling personal injury cases, including motorcycle accidents. We have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to effectively advocate for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
- Proven Track Record: With a track record of successfully recovering over $500 million for our clients, Goldberg & Loren have demonstrated our ability to achieve favorable outcomes in even the most challenging cases. You can trust us to fight tirelessly on your behalf and deliver results.
- Specialization in Motorcycle Accidents: We specialize in representing motorcycle accident victims and understand the unique legal and practical challenges they face. Our attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of motorcycle accident law and are committed to securing the best possible outcome for you.
- Personalized Attention: At Goldberg & Loren, we believe in providing personalized attention to each client. We will take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your legal options, and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and objectives.
- Dedication to Justice: Our firm is dedicated to seeking justice for our clients. We will not only work to maximize your financial compensation but also strive to hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. You can count on us to fight for the justice you deserve.
- Compassionate Support: We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to offer compassionate support and guidance every step of the way. We’ll handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery and moving forward with your life.
Choose Goldberg & Loren for experienced, dedicated, and compassionate legal representation after a motorcycle accident. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you seek the compensation and justice you deserve.
Sources:
[1] Lewis, L. (2024, March 11). What Is a Damages Cap? Findlaw. https://www.findlaw.com/injury/accident-injury-law/what-is-a-damages-cap.html
[2] Oregon Gov. (n.d.). https://www.oregon.gov/odot/Data/Documents/Crash_Summary_2021.pdf
[3] Goguen, D. (2024, February 23). What is the Personal Injury Statute of Limitations in Oregon? www.nolo.com. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/what-is-the-personal-injury-statute-of-limitations-in-oregon.html
[4] comparative negligence. (n.d.). LII / Legal Information Institute. https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/comparative_negligence
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
6500 S Macadam Ave #300
Portland, OR 97239
(971) 339-8080
When you need serious motorcycle accident lawyers in Portland, Oregon you need the lawyers from Goldberg & Loren. We fight for maximum compensation in motorcycle accidents.
We Represent Clients Injured in Motorcycle Accidents in the Following Cities and Communities Near Portland, Oregon.
- Beaverton, OR
- Hillsboro, OR
- Vancouver, WA
- Clackamas County, OR
- Clark County, WA
- Columbia County, OR
- Multnomah County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Washington County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Yamhill County, OR
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