Whether you’ve been hurt in a car crash or slip and fall accident, timeliness is vital if you’re considering filing a personal injury claim. In Oregon, the statute of limitations on personal injury claims can significantly impact your case, so it’s important to understand how the law works. At Johnson and Taylor, our personal injury attorneys in Salem, OR give straightforward legal advice you can trust. We explain how the personal injury statute of limitations applies in Oregon and the ways in which it may affect claims.
What is a Statute of Limitations?
A statute of limitations is a law that outlines the maximum amount of time in which legal proceedings can be initiated after an event such as an accident or injury. Statutes of limitations can be applied in both civil and criminal law.
When a statute of limitations expires, a plaintiff loses the right to pursue legal action. For example, if you’re injured in an auto accident and don’t file a personal injury lawsuit within the statute of limitations in the jurisdiction where it occurred, you would be barred from suing any potentially liable parties for your damages.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Oregon?
Oregon’s statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is typically two years from the date of the injury or discovery of the injury. However, there are limited exceptions to Oregon’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. For instance, if the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused) and could be longer than the standard two years in some cases. Our personal injury lawyers are familiar with the statute of limitations exceptions in Oregon and can clarify how they may affect your potential claim.
Statutes of Limitations for Other Civil Claims
Each case is unique, and there are different statutes of limitations for other types of legal claims, such as those arising from property damage or wrongful death. In Oregon, the statute of limitations for bringing a wrongful death lawsuit is three years.
It’s also important to note that if you’re bringing a claim against a government agency or your case involves a dram shop claim, you’re required to give a claim notice before filing a lawsuit. In these cases, you may only have months to give notice. That’s why It’s vital to take action and contact our personal injury lawyers in Oregon as soon as possible after an accident.
What’s the Purpose of a Statute of Limitations?
The purpose of a statute of limitations is to promote fairness and efficiency in the legal system by bringing claims in a timely manner. This helps to ensure that evidence is readily available and memories are fresh in witnesses’ minds. Statutes of limitations also prevent indefinite legal liability and provide defendants with a degree of protection against dated claims.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer in Oregon Can Help
Depending on the circumstances, determining a personal injury statute of limitations in Oregon can be complicated. Our personal injury attorneys can assess your case and advise you on whether you have a viable claim and help you pursue compensation for damages if you decide to move forward.
Even if you’re unsure about whether too much time has passed to file a personal injury lawsuit, it’s worth speaking to our attorneys about your case. Our personal injury lawyers offer free consultations and take cases on contingency, which means you won’t pay attorney fees unless they help get you compensation. Our experienced accident lawyers will investigate your case, gather evidence, and identify all liable parties. The tactics that insurance companies use to delay or deny claims sometimes involve statutes of limitations. We’re familiar with their strategies and know how to counter any assertions they may make to deny your claim or minimize your injuries.
Our Personal Injury Attorneys Put Our Experience and Knowledge to Work for You
Some people believe hiring a large injury law firm that promises huge settlements is the best way to pursue a claim. However, finding an attorney who’s realistic about the possibilities for recovering compensation can save you time and money and provide the personalized legal representation you deserve. When discussing potential settlement amounts, our team tells you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear.
Our injury attorneys help you understand your options and keep you informed about your case every step of the way. We’re committed to fighting for your rights and helping you recover the maximum compensation you need to protect your health and financial security.
We serve personal injury clients in Salem, Eugene, Bend, the Oregon Coast, Medford, and throughout the state of Oregon. In addition to handling personal injury claims, our attorneys litigate cases involving divorce and family law and estate planning and probate.
Contact our Personal Injury Lawyers in Salem, Oregon
At Johnson and Taylor, our dedicated team understands the importance of litigating personal injury claims within the statute of limitations in Oregon. If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident, we’re here for you. Our experienced team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff. To schedule a free case evaluation with our personal injury attorneys in Salem, OR contact us or call 503-990-6641.