Eugene Car Accident Lawyer

Helping You Recover After a Car Accident in Eugene, OR

At Pacific Cascade Legal, our Eugene car accident attorney understands the many challenges you are facing after a crash. We also know that, in addition to the physical and emotional trauma, you are likely dealing with significant financial losses. That is why we are here to help you fight for the full, fair recovery you are owed.

Call us today at (541) 329-7455 or contact us online to request a consultation with our car accident lawyer in Eugene, OR.

Common Types of Car Accidents

A car accident occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, road debris, or any stationary object. These accidents can result in various degrees of damage to the vehicles involved, injuries, or even fatalities.

Some common types of car accidents include:

• Rear-End Collisions: These occur when one vehicle strikes the back of another, often due to sudden braking or tailgating.
• Head-On Collisions: Typically the most severe, these accidents happen when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide frontally.
• Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone): These occur when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, often at intersections or due to running red lights.
• Single-Vehicle Accidents: These involve only one vehicle and can include incidents like running off the road, hitting a stationary object, or rolling over.
• Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Accidents involving multiple vehicles, often occurring on highways or in adverse weather conditions, where one initial collision leads to a chain reaction involving several cars.
• Side-Swipe Accidents: These happen when the sides of two parallel-moving vehicles make contact, often while changing lanes or merging.
• Collisions with Fixed Objects: When a vehicle collides with stationary objects like trees, poles, barriers, or walls.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: When a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without providing their information or offering help.
• Pedestrian or Cyclist Accidents: Involving collisions between a vehicle and pedestrians or cyclists, often at intersections or while crossing roads.
• Rollover Accidents: These occur when a vehicle tips onto its side or roof, often in high-speed or sharp turn situations.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car crashes can happen in various ways, many of them due to driver error. Some common causes of car accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Activities like texting, using a phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or interacting with passengers can divert attention from the road.
• Speeding: Driving at speeds higher than the designated limits reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or certain medications significantly impairs judgment and reaction time.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, rapid lane changes, or disregarding traffic signals and signs can lead to accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, fog, or ice on the road can reduce visibility and traction, leading to accidents if drivers don’t adjust their driving accordingly.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, or lack of proper signage can contribute to accidents.
• Mechanical Failures: Issues with brakes, tires, steering, or other vehicle components can cause accidents if they occur while driving.
• Fatigue: Driving while excessively tired can impair judgment and reaction times, making accidents more likely.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Lack of experience or inadequate driving skills can lead to mistakes on the road.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Failing to obey traffic signals or signs increases the risk of collisions.

Oregon Car Accident Laws

Oregon operates as an at-fault state rather than a no-fault state. This means that the at-fault driver's insurance typically covers the damages resulting from an accident.

Here are the essential components to establish a successful car accident claim in Oregon:

1. Duty of Care: You must establish that the defendant (the other driver) owed you a duty of care. In car accident cases, all drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles reasonably and obey traffic laws.
2. Breach of Duty: You need to demonstrate that the defendant breached their duty of care. This could involve proving actions such as speeding, running a red light, or any other negligent behavior that contributed to the accident.
3. Causation: You must show that the defendant's breach of duty was the direct cause of the accident and resulting injuries. This means establishing that the accident would not have occurred if it weren’t for the defendant's actions.
4. Damages: You need to prove the damages suffered as a result of the accident. This can include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other losses directly attributable to the accident.

Oregon follows a modified comparative fault system. This means that if you're found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. If you're found to be more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover damages.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Eugene

Knowing what to do after a car accident can help you protect your health and your right to recover compensation. Here are some steps to take:

• Check for injuries: If you are able, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 and request an ambulance.
• Move to safety: If you can, move your vehicle out of the way of traffic and to a safe location. If you cannot move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside until help arrives.
• Call the police: Even if the accident is minor, you should call the police and report the accident. The responding officer will create an accident report, which can be useful when filing a claim.
• Exchange information: Get the other driver's name, contact information, and insurance information. You should also get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Take pictures: Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, including the damage to your vehicle and any visible injuries.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you do not think you were seriously injured, you should still see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
• Report the accident to your insurance company: You should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. However, you should avoid giving a recorded statement or accepting a settlement offer until you have spoken to an attorney.
• Call a car accident lawyer: An attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim. They can also handle all communication with the insurance company on your behalf.

At Pacific Cascade Legal, we understand the complexities and challenges individuals face after a car accident in Eugene. Our experienced team is dedicated to navigating the legal intricacies on your behalf.

From investigating the accident scene, gathering crucial evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, to advocating for your rights in court if necessary, we're committed to securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

With our tailored guidance and unwavering advocacy, we strive to alleviate your burdens, allowing you to focus on recovery while we diligently pursue the justice and restitution owed to you. You're not alone in this journey – let us stand by your side and fight for your rights.

Contact us today at (541) 329-7455 to let us maximize your entitled compensation.