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Car Accidents Focused on a Better Tomorrow

Portland Car Accident Attorneys

Auto Accident Lawyers in Portland, OR

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of injuries in Portland. The damages associated with serious car accidents are also a leading cause of financial trouble. If you have been hit by another driver, you need to consider your legal options to demand compensation, so you don’t suffer financially as well.

Please call (503) 573-5566 to connect with Pacific Cascade Legal and our Portland car accident lawyers. We are here to make sense of your situation, find the best way to start a claim, and help you hold the other driver liable for the harm they caused. We will pair you with an attorney who matches your needs, so you can feel more confident with your case as it develops.

Choosing to work with a local law firm like ours means you benefit from the insight we have into Portland's specific traffic patterns and legal landscape. We take pride in our thorough understanding of local laws and our dedication to the community, which allows us to advocate more effectively for you.

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See the Pacific Cascade Legal difference for yourself. Contact our firm now.


One Firm for Many Car Accident Types

Pacific Cascade Legal has the experienced team and vast resources needed to handle all sorts of car accident claims. If you were in an auto accident, give us a call.

Our firm understands that each accident case is unique and requires a tailored legal approach. Whether you have been involved in a minor fender bender or a serious collision, our dedicated team is prepared to support you through the complexities of the claims process. We strive to empower our clients with the knowledge and understanding needed to make informed decisions about their legal options. By evaluating every aspect of your case, we ensure no detail goes unnoticed, providing a comprehensive strategy aimed at securing the compensation you deserve.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk drivers are one of the most prevalent and dangerous types of unsafe drivers on the road. Each year, drunk drivers cause thousands of severe injuries and fatalities in Oregon alone. While working on your case, we can investigate to see if the driver who hit you was intoxicated. For example, some drivers will admit that they “had just one drink” before the collision, not understanding just how large of an admission that is.

After only one alcoholic beverage, a driver will experience:

  • Longer reaction times
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Reduced motor control
  • Loss of visual acuity

Addressing drunk driving incidents is not only about securing compensation but also about promoting safer roads. By pursuing action against impaired drivers, we contribute to public awareness and the deterrence of these dangerous behaviors.

Rideshare Accidents

Uber and Lyft services are popular throughout the neighborhoods of Portland. For as much convenience as they bring, they also bring legal headaches when involved in a crash.

A rideshare accident can be complicated because it involves a rideshare company that may or may not offer insurance coverage for the incident. Work with an attorney who understands the nuances of the situation, so you can be sure your rideshare accident claim can stand up to the defendant’s scrutiny.

Rideshare services have fundamentally changed how we commute, but their rise has also introduced new legal challenges. Understanding your rights and the rideshare company’s obligations is crucial. Our team is well-versed in the contractual complexities and insurance policies of major rideshare companies, ensuring we represent your best interests effectively.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted drivers pose a significant threat to others on the road. When a driver is distracted, they will have worsened reaction times and might not even notice a hazard on the road until it is far too late to react.

Different distractions that affect drivers include:

  • Texting
  • Talking to passengers
  • Looking at billboards
  • Adjusting the music or GPS
  • Eating or drinking
  • And more

Our approach extends beyond handling the immediate legal ramifications; we aim to raise awareness about the impacts of distracted driving. By educating the community, we hope to foster safer driving behaviors and reduce the incidence of such accidents in the future.

Uninsured/Underinsured Drivers

If you are hit by a driver with no insurance or not enough to cover your losses, it is called an uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) accident. In these situations, you might be able to use your UM/UIM policy coverage. First-party claims against your own auto insurance provider have unique challenges, so always consult a lawyer for assistance.

Dealing with uninsured or underinsured drivers can be daunting, as it often involves complex negotiation with your own insurer. Our lawyers guide you through this process, striving to ensure that your policy is honored and your needs are met, despite the lack of sufficient coverage from the other party.

Car Accident Claim Damages

Determining the value of your car accident claim can be a complicated process. It depends on the losses you have suffered, how liability is determined, insurance policy coverage, and more. Our Portland auto accident attorneys can carefully calculate the damages in your case.

Damages owed to you can include:

  • Medical treatment costs
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Vehicle repairs

Our dedicated legal team goes the extra mile to document and pursue every potential form of compensation. This includes understanding and applying the nuances of Oregon’s legal standards to maximize the outcome of your claim.

Essential Portland Traffic Laws Affecting Auto Accidents

Understanding Portland's traffic laws is crucial when pursuing a car accident claim. Oregon adheres to a "fault" insurance model, meaning the at-fault driver's insurance is responsible for covering the damages. However, proving fault can often be complex, requiring detailed evidence and testimony.

Pedestrians in Portland have the right of way in crosswalks, and failure to yield can result in a major fault assessment in accident cases. Additionally, Oregon law prohibits the use of mobile devices while driving, emphasizing the importance of attention on the road.

Working with a knowledgeable attorney can make navigating these laws smoother, ensuring all aspects of local statutes are considered when building your case with your auto accident attorney in Portland.

Will an Accident Affect My Insurance?

Insurance rates can indeed be affected by accidents, but the specifics can vary widely based on fault determination and your existing policy terms. Our firm can offer guidance on how to navigate potential policy impacts effectively, so you are not caught by surprise. We prioritize not just securing compensation but also protecting your long-term financial well-being by mitigating the potential adverse effects of an accident on your insurance.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe and life-threatening injuries. 

Some of the most common car accident injuries include:

  • Whiplash: This occurs when the neck is abruptly jerked back and forth, causing damage to the soft tissues in the neck.
  • Head Injuries: These can range from minor concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
  • Broken Bones: Fractures and breaks can occur in any part of the body during a car accident.
  • Back Injuries: The force of impact during a car accident can cause spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, and other back-related issues.
  • Cuts & Bruises: Even minor accidents can result in cuts, scrapes, and bruises.
  • Internal Injuries: These can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent after an accident. Examples include internal bleeding, organ damage, and punctured lungs.

It's crucial to address these injuries promptly with appropriate medical care. Our firm collaborates with medical professionals in Portland to ensure our clients have access to the treatments they need. We also assist in documenting these injuries comprehensively to reflect their impact accurately in your case.

Portland Car Accident FAQ

What Happens If I Am Partially Liable for a Car Accident?

Under Oregon's comparative negligence law, you can demand compensation from a defendant in a car accident claim if your liability does not meet or exceed 51%. It is important to work with an auto accident lawyer in Portland who knows how to prove that your liability should remain low, so you don’t lose the option to file a claim.

Your contributory fault can significantly affect the compensation you receive. Our firm is dedicated to minimizing the perception of your liability, using strategic legal arguments to emphasize the responsibility of the other parties involved. By carefully analyzing traffic regulations and witness testimonies, we strive to position your case for optimal outcomes.

Is Texting More Dangerous Than Drinking Behind the Wheel?

Texting behind the wheel and drunk driving are both extremely dangerous behaviors. It is difficult to say which one is more dangerous. Statistically, texting-and-driving causes more fatal accidents per year than drunk driving, but that could be due to the fact that there are far more texting drivers on an average day than drunk drivers. To be safe, avoid engaging in either driving behavior.

Our role is not only to secure compensation for those impacted by such dangerous behaviors, but also to advocate for stricter enforcement of laws against distracted and impaired driving. By raising public awareness about these issues, we aim to contribute to safer roadways for everyone.

Will My Car Accident Claim Settle?

Many valid car accident claims settle, but there’s never a guarantee that one will. Each case is unique. Our Portland car accident attorneys can try to settle your claim if that is the best option. Settlements are sometimes preferable because they bring compensation sooner and with fewer frustrations.

We engage in thorough negotiations to minimize the need for prolonged litigation, aiming for a fair and timely resolution. Our deep understanding of settlement processes enables us to anticipate potential obstacles and address them, ensuring your needs are met efficiently. Whether in negotiations or in court, we are prepared to advocate on your behalf fervently.

How Do Oregon’s Insurance Laws Affect My Car Accident Case?

Oregon follows a "fault" insurance model, meaning that the motorist deemed responsible for the accident is liable for the resulting damages. Understanding your policy's coverage options can impact your claim significantly. Additionally, Oregon requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which can cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault.

Working with a knowledgeable attorney can help ensure that all avenues for compensation are pursued, including leveraging PIP benefits and holding the at-fault driver accountable. At Pacific Cascade Legal, our team is skilled in navigating these complex regulations, helping clients in Portland secure the compensation they deserve.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, it is essential to ensure your safety and the safety of others first. Call 911 immediately if there are any injuries or if the accident is blocking traffic. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, insurance details, and contact information. Document the scene with photos if it is safe to do so and gather witness testimonies if available.

Avoid making any statements that could imply fault. Contact your insurance company to report the accident, but before settling any claims, consider consulting with an attorney to understand your rights and options. At Pacific Cascade Legal, we provide guidance on the necessary steps to take following an accident, ensuring that your legal interests are protected from the start.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After an Accident?

In Oregon, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims resulting from car accidents is typically two years from the date of the accident. It is crucial to adhere to this timeline because filing a claim after the statute of limitations has expired may result in losing your right to seek compensation.

Hiring legal representation can help ensure that all deadlines are met and that your claim is filed correctly. Our team at Pacific Cascade Legal is dedicated to managing these aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on recovery and the complexities of your situation as your car accident lawyer in Portland.

Can Negotiating a Settlement Affect My Future Claims?

When you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to pursue any further compensation related to the accident. This makes the negotiation process critical, as your settlement should cover both current and future expenses.

An attorney can assist in evaluating your damages comprehensively, ensuring that your settlement reflects the full extent of your financial needs. At Pacific Cascade Legal, we focus on achieving fair settlements that account for any long-term impacts an accident might have on your life.

What Role Does Mediation Play in Car Accident Cases?

Mediation is a voluntary process where both parties in a car accident case attempt to reach a settlement with the help of a neutral third party. This approach can be beneficial in avoiding the costs and time associated with litigation.

Mediators facilitate discussions and propose solutions, but they do not make binding decisions. Our attorneys can advise you on whether mediation is a beneficial route for your particular case and represent your interests during negotiations to strive for a favorable outcome. Mediation can be an effective tool, especially when both parties are open to compromise and seeking a swift resolution.

Call Now to Talk with an Auto Accident Team

At Pacific Cascade Legal, you get paired with an attorney who is best suited to take your case. Our dedication to maintaining positive client relations is just the beginning of what sets us apart. You can also trust in our experience, insight, and perseverance against the toughest odds. After a car accident in Portland, turn to us for assistance.

Our transparent communication and meticulous approach ensure that you are never in the dark about your case's progress. We make it our mission to keep you informed, answer all your questions, and provide you with the reassurance that your case is being handled competently. With Pacific Cascade Legal, you are more than just a client; you are our priority.


Dial (503) 573-5566 or contact us online for more information.


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