Car Accident Attorney Portland, Oregon

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At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our car accident lawyers in Portland, Oregon, focus on minimizing the long-term impact of these severe and traumatic events by providing each of our clients with the personal attention they need to pursue a fast and fair financial recovery for their injuries.

Like everyone else in the Northwest, we are no strangers to rainy weather and can undoubtedly blame some of our city’s car wrecks on the inclement conditions. The fact remains that most traffic collisions are caused by a combination of distracted driving, driving too fast, not maintaining a proper lookout, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding or reckless driving, and failing to obey traffic signs and signals. Each negligent action often leads to a preventable cause of severe injuries and tragic deaths.

If you have been hurt in a car wreck or have lost a loved one to another’s negligence, our Portland auto accident attorney at Law Offices of Jon Friedman is available to discuss your case during a free consultation today. We will answer any questions about the personal injury claim process so you may continue to focus on your physical and emotional health. At the same time, we pursue the negligent driver and their insurance coverage for your financial damages.

Car Wreck Injuries and Fatalities Can Happen Anywhere and to Anyone

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According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, last year, over 50,000 vehicle collisions in the state resulted in 27,700 non-fatal injury crashes and 500 fatal crashes.

No matter how attentive you are behind the wheel, you cannot control the behavior of the other drivers traveling alongside you. While Oregon’s law states driving while holding or using an electronic device is illegal, we sometimes see drivers looking down at their phones more than at the road in front of them.

According to the most recent statistics, there were 13,603 fatal and injury crashes over five years, resulting in 137 fatalities and 20,992 injuries caused by crashes involving distracted drivers in Oregon.

If you or your loved one were hurt or killed in any traffic collision caused by a negligent driver, our Portland auto accident attorney can help you hold that person accountable for their negligence or recklessness behind the wheel.

That begins with having your car accident injuries adequately diagnosed and treated by a doctor immediately after the crash. Injuries may not become visible or even painful for days following an auto accident, but it is essential to have a prompt diagnosis to get the care you need.

What are The Most Common Types of Car Accidents in Oregon?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions are the most frequent type of car crash, accounting for about 29% of all car accidents nationwide. In the United States, about 1.7 million rear-end collisions occur each year. These collisions caused almost 1,700 deaths and 500,000 injuries.

The NHTSA says that the most common cause of rear-end collisions is inattentive driving, which accounts for 41% of all accidents caused by driver error. Other causes include tailgating, distracted driving, and weather conditions.

Other common types of vehicle crashes in Oregon and nationwide include:

• Head-on collisions.
• Intersection accidents are caused by failing to yield the right-of-way, ignoring traffic signs or signals, or making improper turns.
• Sideswipe accidents.
• Single-car accidents with fixed objects.
• T-bone accidents.
• Vehicle rollovers can be caused by taking turns sharply and while speeding.

If you have been injured in an Oregon vehicle collision caused by another driver’s negligence, contact our experienced Portland car accident attorneys today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

Most Common Reasons Car Accidents Happen

Motor vehicle collisions can happen for a wide range of different reasons. However, the vast majority of crashes share an important commonality: They could have been avoided had all parties taken the proper safety precautions. The primary cause of car crashes in Portland is driver error. Some of the most common reasons why accidents happen include:

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of car accidents in our region. It occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the road to other activities, with one of the most common (and dangerous) examples being texting while driving. Distractions reduce reaction time and dramatically increase the risk of a crash.
• Speeding: Speed limits exist for a reason. They are the fastest rates at which highway safety officials deemed that a road can be safely traveled. Speeding drivers have less time to react to changes in traffic conditions or actions of other road users, thereby leading to a higher risk of crashes. Beyond that, speeding also increases the severity of a crash that does happen.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: When drivers run red lights or stop signs, they risk hitting pedestrians or causing a side-impact collision with other vehicles. Many intersection crashes reported in Portland happen because a driver ran a red light or a stop sign.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair cognitive and motor functions. Drunk driving and drugged driving are incredibly dangerous. Drivers under the influence are unable to make sound judgments, have slower reaction times, and can lose control of their vehicles.
• Improper Lane Changes: Unsafe or improper lane changes often lead to accidents when drivers fail to check their blind spots or signal their intentions to other drivers. This can result in sideswipe collisions or cause other drivers to swerve and lose control, leading to multi-vehicle pile-ups. Ensuring clear communication of intentions through proper signaling and observing surrounding traffic can mitigate such risks.
• Motor Vehicle Defects: In some cases, accidents occur due to failures or defects in the vehicle itself. Some common examples include brake failures, tire problems, or steering issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and rectify potential problems before they lead to accidents. However, manufacturing defects can also cause malfunctions. A vehicle manufacturer may be liable through a product liability claim.

Recovering Compensation for a Car Crash Injury in Portland

Hurt in a motor vehicle collision in Portland? In Oregon, you have the right to seek compensation for the full value of your damages, including for any non-economic losses. Car crash victims need compensation to cover bills and provide for their families. Most car accident claims are defended by insurance companies. However, the insurance companies that defend these claims are not interested in your best interests. The big insurers are focused on maximizing their profits, which means they want to pay injured people less than their claims are worth. Our Portland, OR auto accident lawyers help injured victims fight for full and fair compensation, including for:

• Property damage, including vehicle repairs;
• Ambulance costs and other emergency room care;
• Hospital bills and other health care costs;
• Physical therapy and long-term medical care;
• Loss of wages and loss of earning potential;
• Pain and suffering and mental distress;
• Scarring, disfigurement, and physical impairment; and
• Wrongful death of a close family member.

Should You Hire a Portland Car Accident Lawyer?

Yes. If you were involved in an injury crash, you should consult with an experienced Portland, OR auto accident attorney. Your lawyer will review your case, answer your questions, explain your options, and help you determine exactly what needs to be done next to put you in the best possible position to get justice, accountability, and the maximum available financial compensation. Indeed, an attorney can guide you through each and every step of the claims process. An initial consultation with our Portland auto accident lawyer is free, confidential, and comes with zero obligations.

Oregon Auto Accident Reporting Procedures

After a major collision in Oregon, it is crucial that the incident is properly reported. Indeed, it is both a legal requirement and in your best interests to report a crash in Portland. Here is an overview of the reporting procedures:

• Stop and Exchange Information: Make sure you stop your vehicle at the scene or as close as possible without causing further danger. You should share your name, address, vehicle registration number, insurance details, and driver’s license information with other drivers.
• Contact the Police: If there are injuries, deaths, or any significant property damage, you should call the police. You should report the accident to the Portland Police Department or another local or state law enforcement agency.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, damages, and any relevant road conditions or signs. You should also write down what happened and try to secure the contact information for any person who saw the accident.
• Notify Your Own Insurer: Even if another driver was the one who was at fault for your accident, it is a best practice to notify your own insurance carrier right away. You may have benefits available through your own coverage.

How Our Portland Car Accident Attorneys Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a serious motor vehicle collision is never easy. If you have a lot of questions about your rights, your options, and what needs to be done next, you are not alone.  Motor vehicle accident injury claims are complicated. The right attorney can make the difference in your case. We are a family-run boutique personal injury law firm made up of a father and son team.

Attorneys Jon M. Friedman and Jon D. Friedman are always ready to put your best interests first. We provide proactive, results-focused legal advocacy to injured victims. At The Law Offices of Jon Friedman, we fight tirelessly to help victims and families get justice. Our testimonials from former clients tell the story best. Among other things, our Portland automobile accident lawyers can:

• Conduct a free, comprehensive review and evaluation of your case.
• Listen to your story and answer questions about your case.
• Investigate your car crash—gathering the evidence to prove fault.
• Represent you in settlement negotiations with the insurance company.
• Develop a personalized legal strategy focused on helping you get results.
• Take aggressive legal action to help you fight for the maximum compensation.

At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our Portland auto accident attorneys have the skills and experience to help injured victims navigate even the most complex, serious crashes. We hold the big insurance companies accountable. Following a bad automobile accident in Portland, you need the maximum financial compensation. With a law office in Portland, we handle motor vehicle accident injury claims all across the surrounding area, including Multnomah County, Columbia County, Washington County, Clackamas County, and Hood River County. We can help. Contact us at our Portland law office today for a no-cost, no-obligation initial consultation with a top-tier Oregon car crash lawyer.

What are The Most Common Injuries That Occur in Oregon Car Accidents? 

At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our car accident lawyers in Portland know there is nothing “common” about having your life changed in a vehicle collision. Car crashes can lead to significant injuries that require long-term medical care, extended time away from work, and out-of-pocket expenses that can disrupt anyone’s financial stability without notice.

Injuries that occur often in car accidents include, but are not limited to:

• Broken and crushed bones.
• Concussions.
• Dislocated joints.
• Internal bleeding.
• Neck and spine injuries.
• Organ damage.
• Paralysis.
• Scarring and disfigurement.
• Torn muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
• Traumatic brain injuries.

In some cases, accident victims are unable to survive their injuries. When true, eligible family members may file a wrongful death claim against the liable driver’s insurance company. Contact our experienced car accident lawyers in Portland today to learn more about your legal rights and options to file a claim for your injuries or on behalf of a loved one whose life was tragically taken by a negligent driver.

What to Do After a Car Crash in Oregon?

Car accidents happen in Portland. The most recent comprehensive data comes from the year 2022. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, there were 45,070 motor vehicle collisions statewide during that year. Collectively, these crashes resulted in 36,950 confirmed injuries and 603 confirmed fatalities. A significant number of car accidents in our state happened in the City of Portland. In 2022, the Oregon Department of Transportation found that there were 6,500 accidents, 5,272 injuries, and 62 traffic fatalities reported in the City of Portland.

It is normal to feel stressed, confused, overwhelmed, and unsure of what comes next. Unfortunately, you cannot rely on any insurance company for guidance through the claims process. By knowing what to do, you will be in a far better position to protect your rights. Here are four of the most important steps to take:

• Stop Your Car and Report Your Collision to Police: Oregon law requires drivers involved to stop their vehicles at the scene. Ensure your car is in a safe location, and turn on your hazard lights. You should exchange information with other drivers involved in the crash. All injuries and crashes must be reported to state or local law enforcement, such as the Portland Police Bureau or the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.
• Thoroughly Document Your Motor Vehicle Crash: Once you have ensured everyone’s safety and reported the accident, you should try to proactively document the scene. Take photographs of the vehicles and the surrounding area. Be sure that you have all of the information from the other driver, including their name, contact details, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, gather their contact information as well.
• Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Your Injuries: All physical injuries that occur in motor vehicle collisions must be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. Of course, a severe injury necessitates emergency care. Non-emergency injuries still require an assessment by a doctor. It is more than just your health and well-being. You cannot bring a car accident injury claim without medical records.
• Consult With a Lawyer Before an Insurance Company: You are probably going to hear from an insurance adjuster relatively shortly after your crash. Do not give a recorded statement until you first consult with a Oregon car accident lawyer. Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say things that can be used to limit the value of your claim. A Portland, OR, auto accident attorney will protect your rights.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Car Accident in Oregon?

In Oregon, liability for a car accident is determined based on fault. The party or parties responsible for causing the accident are generally liable for the resulting damages.

Here are the potential parties that can be held liable for a car accident in Oregon:

• At-Fault Drivers: The driver at fault is the most common party liable for a car accident. If their negligence, recklessness, or violation of traffic laws led to the accident, they can be held responsible for the damages.

• Employers: If the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle as part of their job — either driving their vehicle or a company car — their employer may also be liable for the crash.

• Vehicle Owners: If the at-fault driver does not own the vehicle they were driving, the owner may be held liable if they allowed an incompetent or unlicensed driver to use the car.

Determining liability in an auto accident can be complex and often involves a thorough investigation, evidence gathering, and legal analysis. Contact our Portland auto accident lawyers today if you have been involved in a car accident in Oregon and seek compensation for your injuries and damages. We can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Understanding the Two Key Points About Car Crash Liability in Oregon

Were you involved in a crash in Portland or elsewhere in Multnomah County? Your car crash injury claim will fall under Oregon law. For this reason, it is crucial to understand how our state handles auto accident liability. Here are the two key points that you should be aware of:

• Liability is Based on Fault: As with most but not all states, Oregon operates under an “at-fault” system for car accident claims. The person—whether an individual driver, commercial trucking company or any other entity—who is found to be at fault for causing the accident is also responsible for the resulting damages. Fault is based on negligence, which is defined as the failure to take proper care. Every car accident in Portland should be thoroughly investigated to determine exactly what went wrong.
• Comparative Negligence: Oregon is a modified comparative negligence state (ORS § 31.600). Comparative negligence allows for the apportionment of fault among all parties involved. For instance, imagine that you are found to be 10% at fault for your own accident in Portland; you would be responsible for 10% of your own damages. However, in Oregon, there is a 51% bar on recovery. If a party bears primary fault for a car accident (51% or more), they cannot bring a claim against another party.

Oregon Car Accident Claims Have a Two-Year Statute of Limitations

You do not have an unlimited period of time to bring a car accident injury claim in Oregon. There is a strict statute of limitations. Under ORS § 12.110, most personal injury cases must be filed within two years of the date of the incident. What happens if a person does not bring his or her claim in a timely manner? They could miss out on their right to sue for compensation. You do not want to wait to get started with your case. Contact a Portland auto accident attorney as soon as possible after a major crash.

Be Prepared: Insurance Companies are Focused on Maximizing Their Profits

Insurance companies—even your own carrier—are focused on maximizing their profits. They are not on your side after a serious accident. Indeed, insurance companies put a lot of time and energy into training their representatives to try to find ways to settle cases for less. Here are four tips for dealing with the insurance company after a car accident in Portland:

• Never Admit or Accept Fault: Fault matters in car accident claims. Avoid admitting fault at the accident scene or to the insurance company. Instead, simply focus on gathering facts and let your lawyer determine who is responsible.
• Avoid a Recorded Statement: You are not required to give a recorded statement after a collision. Insurance adjusters may ask for a recorded statement to capture your version of events. Politely decline until you have consulted with a lawyer.
• Be Patient in Settlement: Settlement can take some time to resolve, especially after a bad crash. Do not rush through the process. You can often get a better settlement offer by taking a patient approach.
• Work Through a Lawyer: Do not go up against a big insurance company alone. An experienced Portland, OR, automobile accident lawyer will protect your rights and your interests each and every step of the way.

What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

A Portland car accident and injury lawyer is crucial in helping individuals injured in traffic collisions. The primary objective is to advocate for their clients and seek compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial damages they have suffered due to the accident.

That involves:

• Initial Consultations

Our car accident lawyers begin each case by meeting with the client to discuss the details of the accident and the injuries sustained. During this consultation, the attorney assesses the strength of the case and provides an initial evaluation of its merits.

• Investigation

A significant part of an auto accident attorney’s role involves conducting a thorough investigation into the accident. This may include gathering evidence, obtaining accident reports, interviewing witnesses, and collecting medical records related to the injuries.

• Legal Analysis

The lawyer will analyze the facts of the case, assess liability, and determine the extent of damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Attorneys may consult with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to strengthen their client’s case and provide expert testimony when necessary.

• Client Support

Lawyers provide guidance and support to their clients throughout the legal process. They inform clients about the case’s progress, answer questions, and advise on important decisions. A crucial role of car accident attorneys is strengthening their clients’ rights and interests. They work to ensure their client is treated fairly and that their case is presented effectively.

• Insurance Claims

Car accident lawyers deal with insurance companies on their clients’ behalf. They negotiate with insurance adjusters to secure a fair settlement that covers the client’s losses. Throughout the legal process, attorneys negotiate with opposing parties to reach a settlement agreement in their client’s best interest. If necessary, they may file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.

• Litigation

If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, the attorney will file a lawsuit and represent the client in court. This involves drafting legal documents, presenting evidence, and arguing the case before a judge or jury.

• Recovery

If a settlement or court judgment is obtained in favor of the client, the attorney helps ensure that the client receives the compensation they are entitled to, including negotiating with medical providers and lienholders.

At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our Portland Personal Injury Attorneys Also Focus on the Following Practice Areas:

• Accident Injury
• Airplane Accident
• Boating Accident
• Bicycle Accident
• Bus Accident
• Construction Accident
• Motorcycle Accident
• Dog Bite
• Pedestrian Accident
• Slip and Fall
• Product Liability
• Legal Malpractice
• Medical Malpractice
• Scooter Accident
• Train Accident
• Truck Accident
• Wrongful Death

Our Experienced Portland Auto Accident Lawyers Can Maximize Claim Results

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Our auto accident attorneys will pursue all the necessary evidence to seek a fair and complete recovery for clients. The heart of our success lies in our auto accident experience. We have developed a pattern and practice of litigation to maximize the likelihood of you getting fast, fair, and complete compensation for your injuries since we opened our doors in 1984.

All traffic collisions can lead to financial burdens for the victims. Immediate and ongoing medical costs and the loss of income due to time off work or the inability to run your business can significantly impact your livelihood. If your injuries require extended care, the long-term costs and lack of income can quickly become overwhelming.

Car crash victims are entitled to claim damages from the person responsible for their accident when that person can be positively identified as at fault. Our team of Portland-based car accident attorneys near you have had years of experience assessing and pursuing these cases and will leave no stone unturned.

If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may have an uninsured motorist claim against your own insurance company.

Call Our Experienced Portland Auto Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation

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If you were injured in an auto accident, contact our Multnomah County and Portland personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Jon Friedman today to learn more about the financial compensation you may be entitled to by calling (503) 242-1440 for a free, confidential assessment of your claim.

Car Accidents Resources:

• Distracted Driving Accidents
• Drunk Driving Accidents
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Multi-Vehicle Accidents
• Parking Lot Accidents
• Rear-end Collisions
• Turo Accident
• Uber Accident
• Lyft Accident
• Avis Car Accident
• Budget Rental Car Accident

Law Offices of Jon Friedman

811 SW Naito Pkwy #610, Portland, OR 97204

Phone: 503-242-1440

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