Portland Traffic Crash Statistics
In 2022, 63 individuals lost their lives in traffic accidents in Portland. This number is the same as the fatalities in 2021 and is higher than the highest death toll in at least thirty years. The individuals who died on Portland’s streets came from various roles and relationships, including children, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, neighbors, and friends. [1]
Why Hiring a Lawyer After a Portland Car Accident is Beneficial
- Dealing with Insurance Companies:
Insurance adjusters are skilled professionals who may try to minimize the compensation they offer you. A Portland lawyer experienced in handling car accident cases can navigate the complexities of dealing with insurance companies and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. [2] - Understanding the Legal Process:
By hiring a Portland car accident attorney, you gain access to their knowledge and expertise in personal injury law. They can guide you through the entire process, from gathering evidence and filing the necessary paperwork to representing you in court if your case goes to trial. - Maximizing Compensation:
A skilled car accident lawyer understands the true value of your case. They will assess the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. By accurately valuing your claim, they can help you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. - Investigating Liability:
A Portland lawyer can launch a thorough investigation to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident scene. They will work to establish negligence on the part of the other driver, which is critical in proving liability and supporting your claim. - Handling Complex Cases:
Some car accident cases are more complex than others. If your accident involved multiple vehicles, a commercial vehicle, or if you suffered severe injuries, it is even more important to hire an experienced car accident lawyer. - Peace of Mind:
Hiring a lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your case. Knowing that you have a skilled advocate on your side can provide you with much-needed peace of mind during a challenging time.
What to Do After a Portland Car Accident
If you have been involved in a Portland traffic collision there are steps you can take to ensure your legal rights are protected.
1. Seek Medical Attention :
It is important to get medical attention immediately after an accident, even if you don’t think you’ve been injured. Some injuries may not be apparent until days or weeks later. [3]
2. Gather Evidence :
Take pictures of the accident scene, exchange information with all involved parties, and obtain contact information from any witnesses.
3. Report the Accident :
Be sure to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible and keep a record of all communication you have with them.
4. Contact a Lawyer :
If you need help understanding the legal process or navigating the complexities of dealing with insurance companies, contact a Portland car accident lawyer.
5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company :
It is important to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
6. Be Cautious With What You Say :
What you say, how you say it, where you say it and who you say it too. Stay off social media , and do not discuss the accident with anyone other than your lawyer or insurance company.
7. Be Wary of Insurance Companies and Insurance Adjusters :
Take your time, insurance companies may want to settle quickly and for less than you deserve. Insurance adjusters may play word games to get you to admit fault. A lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.
By taking these steps after a car accident, you can ensure that your legal rights are protected. If you have been injured in a Portland traffic collision, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
What Not to Do After an Accident
1. Do Not Admit Fault:
Even if you think you may be partially responsible for the accident, avoid admitting fault to anyone at the scene, including the other parties involved and witnesses.
2. Do Not Delay Seeking Medical Attention:
Delaying medical treatment could potentially harm your health and weaken your personal injury claim.
3. Do Not Discuss the Accident on Social Media:
Anything you say or post could be misconstrued and used against you in your claim or legal proceedings.
4 . Do Not Settle Quickly With the Insurance Company:
Before accepting any settlement offer, consult with an experienced car accident lawyer to ensure that you’re receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
5. Do Not Delay Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company:
Most insurance policies have specific time limits for reporting accidents, and failing to notify them promptly may result in a denial of your claim.
6. Do Not Forget to Gather Evidence:
Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, including damages to the vehicles involved, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs. Collect contact information from witnesses and note down any important details about the accident.
7. Do Not Give Recorded Statements Without Consulting a Lawyer:
It’s important to consult with a Portland motor vehicle accident lawyer before giving any recorded statements. They can advise you on what to say and ensure that your rights are protected during the process.
What a Portland Lawyer Can Do for You After an Accident
Insurance companies may use their team of adjusters and lawyers to challenge your claim or even deny it altogether.
Having a skilled Portland car accident attorney by your side can level the playing field. They can counter the tactics used by insurance companies and build a strong case on your behalf. A lawyer will present your case in front of a judge and jury, ensuring that your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
A lawyer can help you maximize your financial compensation. They will assess all the damages you have suffered, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. They understand the true value of your case and will fight to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
A Portland lawyer can provide valuable legal advice throughout the entire process.
They will explain your rights, guide you on the legal options available, and help you make informed decisions that align with your best interests.
Lawyers will Have In-Depth Knowledge
One aspect of car accidents that can be complex is determining fault. Portland auto accident attorneys have the expertise to investigate the accident thoroughly and determine who was at fault. They will review the evidence, analyze witness statements, and consult with experts if necessary to establish liability.
There are strict deadlines for filing claims and submitting necessary documents. Without a lawyer, it can be easy to make mistakes or miss required deadlines, potentially jeopardizing your case.
With a knowledgeable attorney by your side, you can have peace of mind knowing that they will handle all the legal complexities and ensure that your interests are protected throughout the process.
When Should I Hire a Lawyer?
- Severe Injuries:
Severe injuries often result in high medical expenses, ongoing medical care, and potential long-term or permanent disabilities. An experienced Portland auto accident lawyer can navigate the complexities of your case. - Fault Is Disputed:
A Portland lawyer can investigate the accident thoroughly, gather evidence, consult with experts, and build a strong case to establish liability. - Insurance Companies Offer Low Settlements:
A car accident lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and fight for fair compensation. - Legal Deadlines and Paperwork:
By hiring a Portland lawyer early on, you can ensure that all necessary deadlines are met and all paperwork is accurately completed. - Emotional Distress or Wrongful Death:
If you are experiencing significant emotional distress as a result of the accident, seeking legal assistance can help you recover damages for your pain and suffering. A lawyer can provide essential legal support and guidance in a wrongful death case, ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable and that the surviving family members receive compensation.
It's important to know that after a car accident, seeking legal help can greatly benefit you.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today by calling (971) 339-8080 for a free consultation to discuss your car accident case and learn how we can help you get the justice and compensation you are entitled to.
Sources
[1] Portland 2022 Deadly Traffic Crash Report. (n.d.). Portland.gov. https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/portland-2022-deadly-traffic-crash-report
[2] See, J. (2023, March 17). Understanding your insurance offer after an accident. Bankrate. https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/offer-after-an-accident/#how
[3] What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide | Allstate. (n.d.). Allstate. https://www.allstate.com/resources/car-insurance/in-case-of-a-car-accident
[4] How Crash Data Works. (n.d.). Portland.gov. https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/crash-data
