Portland Seat Belt Injury Attorney

Were You Injured in an Accident Without Wearing a Seat Belt?

If you were injured in a car accident and weren't wearing a seatbelt, you might wonder about your compensation rights. Yes, you can still be compensated, but your compensation may be reduced. Not wearing a seatbelt doesn't eliminate the insurance company's responsibility to pay for damages, but it does impact the amount you may receive. A skilled Portland seat belt injury attorney can help navigate these complexities and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

/tab

Quick Links

The Impact of Not Wearing a Seatbelt on Insurance Claims in Oregon

Many people hesitate to contact a Portland seat belt injury attorney because they weren't wearing a seatbelt during the accident. Serious injuries might still entitle you to compensation even if you weren't following seatbelt laws. Oregon law addresses this issue specifically, potentially mitigating damages paid by the at-fault party. However, you can still recover damages. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your rights and maximize your potential compensation.

Understanding Comparative Negligence in Oregon

In most states, including Oregon, insurance will still pay if you're not wearing a seatbelt at the time of an accident. However, the principle of comparative negligence applies. This means if you're found partly at fault for your injuries, the insurance company will reduce your compensation proportionately.

For example, if you weren't wearing a seatbelt and got rear-ended, even if the other driver admits fault, video evidence of you not wearing a seatbelt could reduce your award. In Oregon, the reduction is capped at 5% as per ORS 31.760.

A Portland seat belt injury attorney can help you navigate these legal intricacies and work to minimize any reduction in your compensation.

Injuries Caused by Seatbelts

While seatbelts are crucial for safety, they can sometimes cause injuries in a car accident. Common seatbelt injuries include:

• Bruising and Abrasions: Caused by the force of the seatbelt during a collision.
• Rib Fractures: Due to the seatbelt's pressure on the chest during impact.
• Internal Injuries: Such as damage to internal organs from the seatbelt's restraint.
• Shoulder Injuries: From the seatbelt pulling across the shoulder.

If you’ve suffered injuries caused by a seatbelt, a Portland seat belt injury attorney can help you pursue compensation for these injuries as well.

How a Portland Seat Belt Injury Attorney Can Help

A Portland seat belt injury attorney specializes in cases where injuries occurred due to not wearing a seatbelt. Here's how they can assist you:

• Investigating the Accident: Determining the cause and extent of your injuries.
• Filing Claims: Helping you file claims with insurance companies.
• Negotiating Settlements: Skilled negotiation to maximize your settlement.
• Legal Representation: Representing you in court if necessary.

Having a dedicated attorney on your side can significantly impact the outcome of your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve despite not wearing a seatbelt.

Why Choose Us?

At Johnson Law, our experienced attorneys have handled numerous seatbelt injury cases. We offer:

• Award-Winning: Award-winning attorneys with extensive experience with seatbelt injury claims.
• Resources: Comprehensive resources to build strong cases.
• Negotiation Skills: Proficient in securing the best settlements.
• Trial Experience: Ready to represent you in court if needed.

When you need a Portland seat belt injury attorney, choosing Johnson Law ensures you have a dedicated and knowledgeable team fighting for your rights and maximizing your compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does not wearing a seatbelt affect insurance?

Yes, it can affect both insurance rates and personal injury claims. Oregon's laws specify how contributory negligence impacts your compensation. A Portland seat belt injury attorney can provide detailed advice based on your specific situation.

Can I recover damages if I wasn't wearing a seatbelt?

Yes, depending on the state. In Oregon, not wearing a seatbelt may result in a maximum 5% reduction in contributory negligence. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help you understand how this might apply to your case.

What is a Portland seat belt injury lawyer?

A legal professional knowledgeable in cases where clients were injured in car accidents without wearing a seatbelt. They handle everything from investigating the accident to representing you in court, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve despite not wearing a seatbelt.

Contact a Portland Seat Belt Injury Attorney Today

At Johnson Law, we've helped many clients recover damages despite not wearing a seatbelt. We will fight to hold responsible parties accountable and maximize your compensation. If you have been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Portland seat belt injury attorney. Our dedicated team will provide you with the guidance and representation you need to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Key Takeaways

Being involved in a car accident without wearing a seatbelt doesn't mean you're ineligible for compensation. While it can affect the amount you receive, Oregon law has specific provisions to ensure that you can still recover damages. A skilled Portland seat belt injury attorney can help you navigate the legal landscape, minimize any reduction in compensation, and ensure that your rights are protected.

At Johnson Law, we are well-versed in handling seatbelt injury cases and are committed to fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you understand your options and build a strong case.