May 5, 2025

What to Do After a Car Accident in Portland, Oregon: Step-by-Step Guide

What to Do After a Car Accident in Portland, Oregon: Step-by-Step Guide

Car accidents happen suddenly and can leave anyone shaken. It’s crucial to know what to do after a car accident to protect your safety, comply with Oregon law, and set the stage for any insurance or legal claims. This comprehensive guide will walk Portland drivers through the practical steps to take – from the crash scene to the days following – including Oregon-specific rules (like legal deadlines and insurance requirements) that you should keep in mind. The tone here is instructive and clear, aiming to help you navigate a stressful situation with confidence and without any pushy legal sales pitch.

Immediate Steps at the Accident Scene

1. Stay at the scene and check for injuries. Never leave the accident scene – doing so is against the law and could result in hit-and-run charges. Remain calm and make sure everyone is safe or receiving help. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, then, if you can, check on occupants of the other vehicle. If anyone is hurt or even if you suspect injuries, call 911 immediately to get an ambulance and police on the way. Keeping calm will help you think clearly; accidents are chaotic, but a composed mindset will aid in handling the aftermath.

2. Move to safety (if possible). If the cars are drivable and it’s a minor fender-bender, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further collisions. Turn on hazard lights or set out flares/reflectors to warn oncoming traffic. Stay at the scene, but get to a safe spot like the road shoulder or a parking lot. However, if someone is seriously injured or the vehicles are not movable, do not attempt to move them – wait for emergency services. Your top priority is preventing any additional accidents and ensuring no one else gets hurt.

3. Call the police to report the crash. In Oregon, you should report accidents involving injuries or significant damage. Dial 911 and explain what happened; if it’s a non-emergency (no injuries), you can call the local non-emergency line. In Portland, police may not dispatch officers to every minor accident (they typically respond only to crashes with injuries, fatalities, DUII drivers, or hit-and-runs). If an officer does arrive, cooperate fully: give a factual account of what occurred (without admitting fault), provide your license and insurance info, and ask how to obtain a copy of the police report. If police cannot come to the scene, you’ll need to file a report yourself afterward – Oregon law requires drivers to submit an official Oregon Traffic Accident and Insurance Report to the DMV within 72 hours if the accident caused any injury or over $2,500 in property damage (more on this below).

4. Exchange information with the other driver. Trade contact and insurance details with all drivers involved. Get their name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, license plate, and insurance company + policy number. Provide the same information about yourself to them. It’s often helpful to jot down the make, model, and color of the other vehicle as well. Tip: Use your smartphone to snap a picture of their insurance card and driver’s license if they agree – it ensures accuracy. Also, note the exact location, time, and any relevant road conditions (e.g. “SE Powell & 10th at 3 PM, heavy rain”). This information will be important for insurance claims and any legal proceedings.

5. Document the accident scene. If you’re not badly injured, try to gather evidence on the spot: take photos or videos of the vehicles from multiple angles, showing the damage, skid marks, debris, and the overall scene. Photograph any visible injuries as well (bruises, cuts) – they may become important evidence. Look around for witnesses: if any bystanders saw the crash, politely ask for their names and contact info. Independent witness statements can be invaluable if there’s a dispute about what happened. Even a brief video or voice memo of a witness recounting the incident (with their permission) can help later on. The more documentation you have, the better you’ll be able to support your version of events.

6. Be mindful of what you say and do. Emotions run high after an accident, but try to stay calm and courteous. Do not admit fault or apologize for the crash at the scene – even saying “I’m sorry” could be interpreted as admitting liability later. Stick to the facts when talking to the other driver or police. For example, you can ask if everyone is okay or exchange info, but avoid statements like “I didn’t see you” or “I was on my phone” etc. Let the investigation determine fault. Similarly, don’t accuse the other driver of blame on the spot; just ensure the necessary information is exchanged. Everything you do right after the accident should be focused on safety, assistance, and information-gathering.

After a serious collision, remain at the scene and call 911 if anyone is injured. In Oregon, leaving the scene of an injury accident is illegal. Instead, focus on aiding the injured and documenting evidence for later.

Once everyone is safe, emergency responders are en route or on scene, and you’ve gathered information, you can turn your attention to what comes next. The immediate aftermath is just the beginning – the following steps will ensure you get proper medical care and fulfill all legal requirements in Oregon.

Prioritize Health and Medical Care

Car accidents can cause injuries that aren’t obvious in the moment. Your health comes first, so even if you feel “okay,” it’s wise to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible after the crash. Adrenaline and shock can mask symptoms of injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal damage. Here’s what to do regarding medical care:

  • Accept or seek medical help on the scene: If paramedics arrive, let them examine you. If anyone is seriously injured, they should go to the hospital immediately. Don’t be stubborn or embarrassed about getting checked out. If you have pain, dizziness, or any discomfort, allow the EMTs to treat you or transport you for further care.
  • See a doctor as soon as possible: Ideally, get a medical exam within 24-72 hours after the accident, even if you were able to walk away. This could be at an urgent care, your primary doctor, or an ER. Explain that you were in a car accident so they know to look for common crash-related injuries (soft tissue damage, concussion, etc.). Prompt documentation of any injuries is not only critical for your health but also creates an official record for insurance. If you wait days or weeks, insurance adjusters may argue that you weren’t really hurt or that something else caused your injuries.
  • Follow through on treatment: Listen to the medical advice you receive. If the doctor orders X-rays, physical therapy, or a follow-up visit, make sure to do it. Following through shows you’re taking recovery seriously. Keep notes of all diagnoses, treatments, and medications. Also keep receipts and bills from any medical expenses – these will be needed when you file an insurance claim or if you seek compensation from the at-fault driver later.
  • Use your PIP insurance for initial medical costs: Oregon is an “at-fault” state (meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance should ultimately cover victims’ damages), however Oregon also requires every auto insurance policy to include Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP is no-fault coverage that pays for your reasonable and necessary medical expenses (and some lost wages) regardless of who caused the crash. In Oregon, the minimum PIP coverage is $15,000 per person and it will cover medical costs incurred within two years of the accident. This means you can get treatment right away without worrying about out-of-pocket costs, up to that limit. Be sure to notify your auto insurer that you were injured and want to use your PIP benefits – they will usually coordinate directly with your doctors and hospitals to pay those bills. (If you have health insurance, PIP will typically pay first until it’s exhausted.) Save all Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements and correspondence regarding PIP.
  • Monitor for delayed symptoms: Some injuries (like whiplash, soft tissue strains, or concussions) might not fully manifest until 24-48 hours after the crash. It’s common, for example, to feel increasing neck/back pain the next day. If you notice new symptoms in the days following the accident, seek medical care promptly and make sure those symptoms are documented as related to the accident. This not only protects your well-being but also links those injuries to the crash for any future claim.

Oregon-specific tip: Under Oregon law, if your accident-related medical expenses exceed your PIP limit or if you suffer serious injuries, you can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance for those costs and other damages (pain and suffering, etc.). We’ll discuss insurance claims in the next section, but rest assured that using your PIP does NOT raise your premiums when you’re not at fault – it’s a benefit you’ve paid for, designed to help in exactly this situation.

In summary, don’t “tough it out” or delay medical care. Getting checked and treated promptly is essential for your health and creates the medical records you’ll need if you end up seeking compensation. It also prevents the other side from saying, “Well, you didn’t see a doctor until a week later, so how do we know the accident caused your injury?” Take care of yourself first, and the legal/insurance matters can follow.

Report the Accident to Authorities

Taking the initiative to report your accident to the proper authorities is important, especially if police did not arrive at the scene. Oregon has specific reporting requirements that you must follow. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Police report: If a police officer came to the scene, they will file an official accident report. Get the responding officer’s name, badge number, and report number (or ask where and when the report will be available). In Portland, you can often obtain the police report through the Portland Police Bureau’s records division after a few days. If no officer responded, you still may want to file a police report for documentation. You can go to a local police station and file a report in person or online (if available) describing what happened. This can be useful evidence for insurance, even if it’s just a self-reported incident.
  • Oregon DMV accident report: Oregon law requires drivers to submit an Oregon Traffic Accident and Insurance Report (to the DMV) within 72 hours of the crash if certain thresholds are met. You must file this report if any of the following apply:
    • Injury or death resulted from the accident (even minor injury).
    • Property damage to any vehicle is over $2,500. (Note: If a vehicle is towed from the scene, that also implies the $2,500 threshold is met.)
    • Damage to property (other than vehicles, e.g. a fence or building) over $2,500 occurred.
    The DMV report is a formal document you fill out with details of the accident and insurance information. You can submit it online via DMV’s website or mail the paper form. Importantly, even if a police report was made, you still must submit this DMV report yourself for the above situations. Failing to do so can result in suspension of your driver’s license, so mark this as a top priority once the dust settles. Essentially, if anyone was hurt or it’s not a super-minor scrape, err on the side of filing the report. It doesn’t cost anything and it keeps you compliant with Oregon law.When filling out the DMV accident report, you’ll need information like each vehicle’s owner and insurance policy, driver license numbers, and a narrative of what happened. Use the notes and photos you took at the scene to help complete it accurately. Keep a copy for your records. (If you’re physically unable to file within 72 hours due to injury, file it as soon as you can — include a note about the delay. Oregon DMV understands if a hospitalization prevents quick filing.)
  • Notify other agencies if required: In some cases, if damage occurred to city or state property (like a traffic light or guardrail), you may need to inform that public entity. Often, filing the DMV report suffices since it asks if any government property was damaged. But for example, if you hit a parked city-owned vehicle or a utility pole, ensure the appropriate authority knows about it. Usually, the police or DMV report will cover this notification.

Pro Tip: Always keep a copy of any report you file (police or DMV) and note the date you filed it. These reports serve as official evidence of the crash and can be very useful later when dealing with insurance adjusters or any legal claims.

Notify Your Insurance and Start the Claims Process

After an accident, timely notifying your insurance company is crucial. Most auto insurance policies require policyholders to report any accident “promptly” or within a reasonable time, even if you were not at fault. Starting the claims process early will help you get your vehicle repaired and medical bills paid. Here’s how to handle insurance matters:

  • Contact your own insurer as soon as you can. Once you’re safe and have addressed any immediate medical needs, call your insurance company’s claims line (many have 24/7 hotlines). Tell them you’ve been in an accident and provide the basic facts: when and where it happened, the other driver’s info, and any injuries. Be honest and accurate, but keep your statements factual – it’s okay to say “the other car hit me from behind” but avoid speculative phrases like “I guess I must have braked too hard.” The call is likely recorded, and anything you say could later impact determinations of fault. Simply report the circumstances as you know them. Your insurer will assign a claims adjuster to handle your case and guide you on next steps. They may ask you to give a more detailed statement of what happened – again, stick to the facts as you observed them.
  • Leverage Oregon’s insurance coverages: As mentioned earlier, Oregon requires PIP coverage on your policy, so open a PIP claim with your insurer for your medical bills and any lost wages. This typically involves filling out a PIP application form they provide. Your insurer will then pay your medical providers directly (or reimburse you) for reasonable treatment related to the accident, up to your coverage limits. Also, Oregon mandates uninsured motorist (UM) coverage of at least $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident on your policy. If the other driver was uninsured or fled the scene (hit-and-run), inform your insurer because your UM coverage can step in to cover your injuries in that scenario. Likewise, Oregon’s UM coverage includes underinsured motorists – if the at-fault driver has insurance but not enough to cover your full damages, your policy’s UM/UIM can cover the difference up to your limits. In short, Oregon law makes sure you have some protection even if the other driver has no insurance or inadequate insurance. Don’t hesitate to use these coverages; they exist for your peace of mind.
  • Handle vehicle damage claims: Discuss with your insurer how to get your car repaired. If you have collision coverage, you can get your car fixed through your own insurance, and they will later pursue reimbursement from the at-fault party’s insurer (a process called subrogation). Using your collision coverage means you’ll pay your deductible upfront, but you might get that back if they recover from the other side. Alternatively, you can file the property damage claim directly against the at-fault driver’s insurance. In Oregon’s fault system, the at-fault driver (or their insurer) is ultimately responsible for vehicle repair costs. The downside is you have to wait for the investigation to establish fault, which can delay repairs. Often, the quickest route to getting back on the road is to use your own collision coverage (if you have it) and let the companies sort out repayment later. Your adjuster can advise which approach makes sense. Either way, get an estimate for the damage and arrange for repairs at a trusted shop. Your insurer or the other driver’s insurer will typically send an appraiser to inspect your car or have you go to a drive-in claims center.
  • Exchange claim information: When you notify your insurer, also report the other driver’s insurance details (from the info you gathered at the scene). Your insurer may contact the other company to put them on notice of a claim. You can also choose to call the at-fault driver’s insurance yourself to initiate a third-party claim for your damages. If you do, again stick to basic facts. It’s okay to give a brief description (e.g., “Your insured ran the red light and hit me”) but you don’t need to go into extreme detail in that initial notification. Both insurers will investigate and likely determine fault based on evidence, police/DMV reports, and statements.
  • Be cautious with adjusters: It’s common for an insurance adjuster (either your own or the other driver’s) to ask for a recorded statement about the accident. With your own insurer, you have a duty to cooperate – you can provide a statement, but do it when you’re calm and prepared. With the other driver’s insurer, you are not required to give a recorded statement or talk at length without counsel. In fact, it’s often wise to politely decline a recorded interview with the opposing insurance company, especially if you’re still shaken or injured, until you’ve gotten advice (you might say, “I’m not comfortable giving a recorded statement right now”). Anything you say to them could be used to minimize your claim. It’s usually sufficient to provide them your basic info and let them know your insurer or attorney (if you hire one) will be in touch. Remember, the other insurer’s goal is to protect their bottom line, not you.
  • Keep good records: Start a file for all accident-related documents. This includes the police report, DMV report copy, claim numbers, correspondence with insurance, medical bills, repair invoices, rental car receipts, etc. Note the names and phone numbers of any adjusters you speak with. If there are any expenses you incur (towing fees, rental car, etc.), save receipts. These may be reimbursable by insurance. Also, track any missed work days due to injuries, because lost wages can be claimed too. Having an organized file will make the claims process smoother and help ensure you don’t overlook any compensation you’re entitled to.
  • Understand fault and claims in Oregon: Oregon operates under a “comparative negligence” rule, which will affect the claims process if fault is shared. Under Oregon’s modified comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages from the other party as long as you were not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, any compensation you receive would be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages. If you were 51% or more at fault, you’d be barred from recovery. Why does this matter now? Because insurance adjusters will be evaluating the accident to assign fault percentages. Be aware that the other driver’s insurer may try to claim you were partially responsible to reduce what they pay. Even your own insurer, when negotiating subrogation, will be looking at comparative fault. This is why providing clear evidence and not admitting fault is important. If it’s obvious the other driver was 100% at fault (say they rear-ended you while you were stopped at a red light), then you should insist on that with the evidence. But if fault is disputed or unclear, this is a scenario where consulting an attorney might be wise (more on that later). The key point: don’t assume you can’t recover just because you might be partly to blame – Oregon law may still allow you to get compensated in proportion to the other party’s fault.
  • Don’t rush to settle if you’re injured: When dealing with insurance, you might get a quick offer to settle your claim, especially from the other driver’s company, if it’s clear their driver was at fault. Be very cautious about settling too soon. Once you sign a release of claims and accept a settlement, you generally cannot go back for more if you discover injuries later or your medical costs end up higher than expected. It’s usually advisable to wait until you have completed medical treatment (or at least have a clear projection of future treatment) before settling a bodily injury claim. Property damage (car repairs) is separate – you can settle the vehicle damage portion sooner, since those costs are known once the car is fixed or totaled out. But for your personal injury, don’t settle until you know the full extent of your injuries and have spoken to a professional about the value of your claim. If the insurance process is straightforward and your injuries were minor, you may handle it yourself. But if you suffered significant injuries, the next section will help you decide if and when to involve a lawyer.

Oregon Laws and Deadlines to Remember

Before concluding, let’s summarize a few Oregon-specific laws and deadlines that every Portland driver should keep in mind after a car accident. Being aware of these can ensure you don’t miss any critical steps:

  • 72-Hour DMV Reporting: As discussed, Oregon law mandates filing an accident report with DMV within 72 hours for accidents involving injury, death, towing, or over $2,500 in damage. Failing to do so can lead to suspension of your license. Always err on the side of reporting. It’s a short form and it protects your driving privileges.
  • Statute of Limitations – 2 Years: In Oregon, the general statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit from a car accident is two years from the date of the accident. If you haven’t settled your claim and need to sue (for example, because negotiations failed or the other side denies liability), you must file the lawsuit within two years or you’ll likely lose your right to recover anything. There are a few exceptions (e.g. if the injury wasn’t discovered right away, or if the victim is a minor the clock might start later), but the safe assumption is: mark that two-year date on your calendar. This deadline doesn’t mean your insurance claim must resolve by then, but it means you must file suit by then if it’s going to court. Practical tip: If your injuries are serious or you’re approaching a year+ after the accident with no resolution, it’s probably time to involve an attorney to ensure the deadline isn’t missed.
  • Claims Against Government Entities – 180 Days Notice: If your accident involved a government vehicle or you plan to bring a claim against a city, county, or the State of Oregon (for example, a city bus hit you, or poor road maintenance by a government entity caused the crash), special rules apply. Oregon’s Tort Claims Act requires that you give a formal notice of claim within 180 days (6 months) of the accident to preserve your right to sue a public body. This is much shorter than the standard 2 years, so it’s critical not to overlook. The notice is basically a letter to the appropriate agency or insurer for the government entity, stating the facts of the accident and that you intend to seek damages. After that, you still have the two-year limit to actually file the lawsuit. If a government vehicle was involved or you suspect any government liability, consulting an attorney early is highly recommended, because the 180-day clock is ticking.
  • Oregon Insurance Requirements: To legally drive in Oregon, you must carry at minimum: $25,000 per person ($50,000 per accident) in bodily injury liability, $20,000 in property damage liability, $15,000 in PIP, and $25,000/$50,000 in uninsured motorist coverage. Why list this here? Because right after an accident is a good time to double-check what coverage you have. If you find yourself out-of-pocket for rental car or a big deductible, you’ll feel the gaps in coverage. For instance, Oregon doesn’t require collision or towing coverage – you’d have to have added those. The aftermath might prompt you to adjust your policy for the future (though that doesn’t help retroactively). Also, understanding these minimums helps set expectations: the other driver may only have, say, $25k of coverage, which might not fully cover a major injury. Knowing that early on is important in case you have to rely on your underinsured motorist coverage or pursue other avenues.
  • Comparative Fault Rule: Oregon’s modified comparative fault law (sometimes called the “51% bar rule”) means you can recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault for the accident, but your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you were 51% or more to blame, you cannot recover from the other party. This is a fairer system than pure contributory negligence (which bars any recovery if you’re even 1% at fault), but it does mean that arguments over percentage of blame can significantly affect the outcome. Keep this in mind when recounting events – be truthful, but let the evidence speak to fault. Insurance companies will negotiate based on this rule. If you strongly disagree with an insurer’s assignment of fault (for example, they say you were 30% at fault but you believe it was 0%), you may need legal help to contest that.

By understanding these Oregon-specific rules, you’ll be better prepared to protect your rights after a crash. Next, we’ll discuss how to decide if you should get legal help with your case, and how a lawyer might assist you (keeping in mind those rules above).

When (and If) to Consult a Car Accident Lawyer

Not every car accident requires a lawyer’s involvement. For minor accidents with no injuries, or injuries so small you fully recovered after one doctor visit, you might handle the insurance claims on your own. However, there are situations where consulting an experienced Portland car accident attorney can be very beneficial – and sometimes crucial to getting the compensation you deserve. The key is to recognize when those situations apply to you. Here are some guidelines on when it may be appropriate to seek legal help:

  • Serious injuries or significant medical bills: If you or anyone in your car suffered major injuries (e.g. broken bones, a concussion, hospitalization, or anything requiring ongoing treatment), it’s wise to at least talk to a personal injury lawyer. Serious injuries lead to high medical costs, possible future treatment, lost income from missing work, and pain and suffering – the stakes are high. A lawyer can help calculate the full value of your claim (including future costs) and negotiate with the insurance company so you’re not short-changed. Remember, the insurance company’s goal is often to settle quickly for less. An attorney’s goal is to get you what you truly need for a full recovery. Most car accident attorneys offer a free initial consultation, so you can get an expert opinion on your case at no cost.
  • Fault is disputed or unfairly assigned: If there is any dispute about who caused the accident – for instance, if the police report is inconclusive or the other driver’s story conflicts with yours – an attorney can help gather additional evidence (like traffic cam footage, skid mark analysis, or witness statements) to prove liability. Similarly, if an insurance company is trying to pin a greater share of blame on you than you feel is warranted, a lawyer will advocate on your behalf. They understand Oregon’s comparative negligence law and how to argue against unwarranted fault allocations. In tricky scenarios (multi-car pileups, accidents involving pedestrians, etc.), having legal counsel is especially useful to sort out the complexity.
  • The insurance company is denying or lowballing your claim: Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for insurers to dispute valid claims or offer settlements far below what you actually need. If you hit a wall – say the insurer denies liability, refuses to cover certain medical treatments, or offers a token amount that doesn’t even cover your bills – it may be time for an attorney. Signs of a lowball offer include: they’re rushing you to settle, they minimize your injuries (“soft tissue injury” claims), or they ignore future expenses. An attorney can communicate with the insurer on your behalf, which often prompts more reasonable offers. If not, an attorney can file a lawsuit to pressure the insurer to deal fairly. Sometimes, simply having a lawyer take over negotiations signals to the insurer that you mean business and won’t accept less than fair value.
  • Complicated circumstances: There are various complicating factors that scream for legal guidance. For example:
    • If the accident involved a commercial truck (18-wheeler) or a company vehicle – these cases involve multiple parties (the driver, their employer, commercial insurers) and potentially federal regulations, requiring specialized knowledge.
    • If it involved a government vehicle or entity (as noted above, Oregon law requires a formal notice within 180 days) – a lawyer will ensure that notice is properly given and handle the unique procedures of suing a public entity.
    • If you were hit by a drunk driver – a lawyer can advise on punitive damages or navigating the criminal case interface with your civil claim.
    • If the accident caused permanent disability or long-term pain – putting a value on such losses is complex; attorneys often work with medical and economic experts to project lifetime costs.
      In any such complex scenario, an attorney’s expertise can make a huge difference in outcome.
  • You feel overwhelmed or unsure of your rights: Sometimes, even if the case seems straightforward, you might simply feel more comfortable having a professional handle things. Dealing with car repairs, doctors, and adjusters while recovering from an accident is a lot. A lawyer can take the burdensome paperwork and negotiation off your plate so you can focus on healing. They can also explain your rights in detail – for instance, many people don’t know that pain and suffering damages (compensation for the physical pain, inconvenience, and emotional distress from the accident) are typically only paid out in a liability claim, and a lawyer can help substantiate those damages. If you’re not sure what you’re entitled to, it doesn’t hurt to ask an attorney.

Consulting vs. Hiring: Reaching out to a lawyer for advice doesn’t mean you’re committing to a lawsuit or even to hiring that lawyer. Most car accident attorneys in Portland work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you recover money, and their fee is a percentage of the settlement or judgment. In a free consultation, you can ask questions like: Do I have a strong case? What might it be worth? Can you handle dealing with the insurance for me? What are your fees? After getting this input, you can decide if it’s worth it. If your case is small (e.g., just a few hundred in chiropractic bills and a day off work), an honest lawyer may tell you that you’re better off handling it yourself (since attorney fees might exceed the incremental benefit). If your case is larger, they’ll explain how they can add value.

Remember the Statute of Limitations: If two years are nearing and you still haven’t settled, definitely consult a lawyer before the deadline passes. Filing a lawsuit might become necessary to preserve your claim, and an attorney will ensure it’s done on time and correctly. (Once a suit is filed, even if it’s just to stop the clock, it can always be settled out of court later.)

Finally, consulting a lawyer doesn’t mean you’re “being greedy” or litigious – it means you want to be informed. A reputable attorney will tell you straight up if they think you’re handling everything well on your own or if they can significantly help. Their goal is to make sure you’re not taken advantage of during a vulnerable time.

We’re Here If You Need Advice

Dealing with a car accident is never fun, but knowing what to do after a car accident can make the process less daunting and protect your well-being and legal rights. By following the step-by-step guidance above – from securing the scene and getting medical care, to handling insurance and understanding Oregon’s unique rules – you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the aftermath of a crash in the Portland metro area.

Most importantly, take care of yourself and your loved ones. Cars can be fixed and claims can be negotiated, but health is irreplaceable. By acting promptly and wisely, you’ll maximize the chances of a smooth recovery both physically and financially.

If you ever find yourself overwhelmed or facing challenges (like serious injuries or uncooperative insurance companies), know that our Portland car accident law firm is here to help. We pride ourselves on being informative and supportive, not pushy. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation if you have questions about your accident or Oregon law – we’ll give you an honest assessment of your situation. Sometimes just a brief conversation with an attorney can provide clarity and peace of mind. And if it turns out you truly need representation, we can handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on healing.

Stay safe on the roads! But if the unexpected happens, refer back to this guide for a steady roadmap. With the right steps, you can get through the post-accident maze and back on track. We’re here if you need us, and we wish you safe travels ahead.

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