Fault-based auto accidents are common in Oregon. If you suffered injuries in a car crash in Salem because of the other party’s fault, you should consult an attorney. Oregon is a tort state, and if you have the evidence, you can hold the driver responsible for their action. A reliable and experienced Salem Oregon Lawyer can help initiate and pursue legal action. In this post, we are sharing more about state laws and other key aspects.
Time limit for car accident injury lawsuits
In every state, there is a statute of limitations, which is a law that sets the deadline for injury lawsuits and wrongful death claims. If you have a valid car accident injury lawsuit in Oregon, you must file a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party within two years. The count for the deadline starts immediately from the accident date. If you want to file a lawsuit for property damage, you have a deadline of six years.
When you have a share in the fault
Oregon is among the many states that follow the “modified comparative fault” rule. If two parties share the blame for an auto accident, their fault percentages determine the final settlements. You can only take legal action and seek compensation from the at-fault party if your share in the blame doesn’t exceed theirs. Also, your settlement will be lower, depending on the fault percentage.
Mistakes to avoid after an auto accident
- Don’t admit fault.
- Don’t run away from the scene.
- Don’t step back from calling the police.
- Don’t accept the first offer from the claims adjuster.
- Don’t give a statement before you talk to your attorney.
- Don’t post anything online.
- Don’t confront the other driver.
- Don’t move your vehicle unless it’s completely safe.
Get an attorney
People often assume that insurance companies will do their best to pay for claims, but that’s is far from the truth. Unless you have an attorney for your auto accident claim, you are more likely to settle for a much lower settlement amount. Top attorneys in Oregon work on a contingency basis, and you don’t have to pay them to get a case review. Let an attorney negotiate and get you a settlement that covers your losses.
Ensure that you don’t talk to the other party directly. Also, hire a lawyer who can represent you in court if needed. Typically, auto accident claims don’t end up in trial, but you can never be entirely sure.
