Stopping after an Accident

Q. Do I have to stop after an auto accident?

A: Yes. Oregon law requires that you stop and exchange information with the other driver, including your name, driver’s license number, vehicle identification number, insurance company and policy number. You must also call police if an accident kills or injures someone.

Auto Accident Injury

Q: What should I do if someone is hurt in an auto accident?

A: Oregon law requires that you provide reasonable assistance to anyone who was injured. You may need to call an ambulance, personally take the injured person to a doctor or hospital, or give first aid if you can.

Gathering Information after an Auto Accident

Q: What information should I get at the auto accident scene?

A: Gather as much information as you can at the accident scene of the accident. Record the other driver’s name, address, date of birth, telephone number, driver’s license number and expiration date, and insurance company information. Also note the other car’s year, make, model, license plate number, and VIN.

If the other vehicle belongs to a company or it is otherwise apparent that the other driver does not own it, ask for the owner’s name, as well as whether the other driver was on duty with an employer when the accident occurred. Obtain the names and contact information of any passengers or witnesses. Draw a quick diagram of the scene, showing where and how the crash happened and noting the time of day and weather conditions.

Medical Treatment after an Auto Accident

Q: Should I see a doctor after the accident?

A: Yes. The driver and each passengers should have a physical examination after any auto accident. Injuries may have happened, but symptoms might not be apparent. Shock and adrenaline can mask pain from a serious injury. An Oregon automobile insurance policy must include Personal Injury Protection (“PIP”) coverage to pay some or all of the medical bills for treatment arising from a motor vehicle collision even if the accident was the driver’s fault. Your agent or insurance company will open a PIP claim and give you a claim number after you report the accident. Ask your doctor or medical provider to use this claim number and bill your automobile insurance for services. If it is determined that the accident was not your fault, then your insurance company will seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

Reporting Auto Accidents

Q: Do I have to report the accident?

A: If you are involved in an auto accident that kills or injures someone, you must call police immediately. Each driver must notify the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”) of accidents involving death, injury, or property damage over $1,500 to either vehicle.

Also report the accident to your insurance company. Ask your insurance company or insurance agent what forms you should fill out and to help you make other necessary accident reports.

Getting Legal Help after an Auto Accident

Q: Should I contact an Oregon personal Injury lawyer about my auto accident?

A: If you or loved ones have suffered a serious personal injury in a car accident, you may need help with your recovery, both physically and financially. Medical bills add up quickly, and lost wages because of time away from your job during physical therapy or disability may reduce or even eliminate the ability to pay.

When you contact us to find out if you have a case, we offer a free legal evaluation. After you tell us the facts about the accident and your injuries, we’ll tell you if we can help you. We provide this service absolutely free and with no obligation to use our law firm if we believe that you have a case.

We don’t charge upfront fees in auto accident cases. We work on a “contingent fee” basis. That means it won’t cost you a penny unless and until we settle or win your case. The pressure is on us to get you the best possible outcome.

Regardless of whether you contact us or another attorney, do not delay contacting a lawyer for auto accident injuries. Evidence must be preserved and time limits for filing legal claims could be critically short.

Q: What if someone sues me?

A: You should contact your own insurance company immediately. Your insurance company will assign a lawyer to represent you. If you are sued for more money than your policy covers, you may also need your own attorney.