Being hurt in a car accident is daunting. When the at-fault driver flees the scene, the physical, emotional, and financial stress victims face can be even more overwhelming. At Johnson and Taylor, our auto accident lawyers in Salem, Oregon help injured victims and their families find the justice and accountability they deserve after being hurt in a crash, to the extent possible. Here, our personal injury attorneys discuss why it’s vital to seek the counsel of an experienced lawyer after a hit and run accident and how our team works toward the best possible outcome for your case.
Hit and Run Accidents in Oregon
Unfortunately, hit and run accidents are more common on Oregon roadways than most people realize. There are many different reasons why a driver may flee the scene of an accident, such as being uninsured, driving without a license, or operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Regardless of why a driver takes off, leaving the scene of an accident is a crime in Oregon. It can come with stiff penalties like prison time if someone is seriously injured or killed in a hit and run crash. However, police investigations don’t always result in identifying or locating the driver, which means injured victims may need to use their own auto insurance coverage or explore other legal options for recovering damages. Our auto accident lawyers can evaluate your case, investigate and try to track down the driver, and help you pursue all possible sources of compensation.
Navigating Complex Insurance Claims and Legal Issues
After a hit-and-run, you may feel powerless and wonder how it’s possible to seek justice when the person who caused your injury has disappeared. Our auto accident attorneys can help you take charge of the situation by acting as your staunch legal advocates. We help you understand your rights, advise you of your options, and protect you from underhanded insurance company tactics.
Their number one priority is protecting their bottom line. Even if you file a claim with your own insurer, they may try to minimize the seriousness of your injuries to pay as little as possible on your claim. Our auto accident lawyers are familiar with the tactics they employ and fight tirelessly to ensure the full scope of your injuries and losses are covered, including medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Oregon
In Oregon, most drivers are required to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can be a valuable resource when an at-fault driver can’t be identified. However, filing a UM claim isn’t always straightforward. An insurer may dispute the extent of your injuries, the necessity of certain medical treatments, or whether the damages you’re seeking fall under your policy.
Without an experienced auto accident attorney by your side, you may accept an inadequate settlement, encounter unnecessary delays, or even deal with claim denials. Our car accident lawyers handle all negotiations with insurers, investigate and gather evidence, and fight to help you recover the maximum amount of compensation you’re entitled to receive.
Taking Swift Action Protects Your Rights
Time is critical in hit-and-run cases. Contact the police and file a report immediately. Your insurance company may also have deadlines to file the claim. The sooner you contact our auto accident attorneys, the sooner they can begin preserving evidence, interviewing witnesses, and negotiating with insurers on your behalf. If the insurance company fails to make reasonable settlement offers, then you may have the option to fight them through arbitration. Usually, the deadline for demanding arbitration of an uninsured motorist claim is two years. There may be additional options to consider that we could assist with.
Dedicated, Compassionate Legal Representation You Can Trust
In addition to dealing with physical injuries, victims and their families often suffer a heavy emotional toll after a hit and run accident. They may struggle with feelings of anxiety, anger, and frustration. Our compassionate auto accident attorneys stand by your side so you don’t have to face this difficult time alone.
Our auto accident lawyers know that filing a claim after a hit and run is about more than monetary compensation—it’s about finding a measure of justice and closure you need and deserve. You can count on us to fight for your financial recovery and ease your burden so you and your family can focus on healing.
Our car accident attorneys offer free consultations and take cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay attorneys’ fees unless you are compensated. This arrangement enables you to get the skilled legal representation you need without added financial stress.
Our auto accident attorneys serve clients in Salem, Eugene, Bend, the Oregon Coast, Medford, and throughout the state of Oregon. Our team also handles cases involving estate planning and probate statewide and divorce and family law in Marion, Linn, and Polk counties. Our Spanish-speaking clients can count on us to fight for their rights and protect their interests.
Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys in Oregon
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit and run accident, the dedicated team at Johnson and Taylor is here to help. To schedule a free consultation with an auto accident lawyer near you in Oregon, contact us or call 503-990-6641 today.
