Being injured in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, but knowing what to do after a crash can help protect your health and your interests. At Johnson and Taylor, our car accident attorneys help personal injury victims throughout Oregon understand their rights and why it’s so important to take these vital steps after a collision.
Call 911
Even if a crash seems minor, it’s important to report it to the police. Check to see if anyone is injured and call 911. If you’re in a dangerous spot and able to move, get to a safe location. It’s best not to move vehicles if possible. A police report provides valuable documentation of an accident, and your attorney will need it should you decide to file a personal injury claim for car accident injuries.
Gather Information
Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved in the accident. If there are any witnesses to the crash, ask for their contact information. Their statements are vital when your car accident attorney investigates to determine fault.
Document the Scene of the Accident
Take photos of the accident scene, damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any relevant signs or signals. Jot down or record everything you remember about how the crash happened. Memories fade and evidence can be lost. Documenting it while the details are still fresh in your mind can help support a car accident injury claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, symptoms of some injuries don’t appear right away. Going to the emergency room can help to ensure all your injuries are diagnosed and treated. It’s also important to keep all medical appointments and follow recommended treatment plans.
If you decide to file an injury claim for a car accident, medical records are an essential element of demonstrating the severity of your injuries and how they have impacted your life. Car accident lawyers recommend that you save all medical bills as well, including those for medication and treatment co-pays.
Keep a Journal
A journal provides valuable evidence should you decide to file a car accident injury lawsuit or claim. Daily documentation of your physical, mental, and emotional condition can demonstrate the extent of your injuries, pain and suffering, and how the accident has impacted your life and ability to do things you enjoy.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
It’s vital to contact an Oregon car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash. Do not give a statement to insurance adjusters, sign anything, or accept a settlement without seeking the advice of a qualified attorney. Insurers are always looking for ways to minimize payouts and deny claims and may twist your words to make it appear that you are at fault.
If you’ve suffered serious car accident injuries and you’re unable to make contact, have a loved one get in touch with a personal injury lawyer for you. A car accident lawyer can evaluate your case and advise you of whether you have a viable personal injury claim or grounds to file a car accident injury lawsuit. If you go ahead with a car accident injury claim, your personal injury attorney will handle all negotiations with insurers and fight to help you get the fair compensation you need and deserve.
How Long After a Car Accident Can You Claim Injury in Oregon?
Under Oregon law, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is normally two years. Although this may seem like a long time, it’s important to act fast after an accident. Gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses as soon as possible can give your personal injury attorney a better chance of winning your car accident injury lawsuit. A motor vehicle lawyer can also provide the compassionate legal support you need and keep you updated on the progress of your car accident injury claim.
Our Attorneys Can Help If You’ve Suffered Car Accident Injuries in Oregon
Our car accident attorneys have a solid reputation in the Oregon legal community and are well-respected by judges and colleagues. Our experienced team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff who can assist you with your car accident injury claim. We care about you and your family and fight to help you get the maximum compensation you need to heal and move on after suffering car accident injuries.
Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys to Schedule a Free Consultation
Our car accident lawyers at Johnson and Taylor serve clients in Salem, Eugene, Bend, the Oregon Coast, Medford, and throughout Oregon. In addition to litigating personal injury cases, we handle divorce and family law, estate planning and probate matters. To schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Salem, Oregon, contact us online ;or call 503-990-6641. If your condition makes it difficult to travel, we can meet with you at home, by phone, or via Zoom.