Accidents can happen in a variety of ways and may leave you or someone you love suffering serious personal injuries in Oregon. When they happen due to the reckless and negligent behavior of others, you have the legal right to hold them liable for your costs.
An Oregon personal injury claim can help compensate you for current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. However, whether dealing with insurers or taking your case to court, getting the total you need to recover often proves challenging. Our Oregon personal injury lawyer has extensive experience helping injured victims and their families in this situation and shares five ways to maximize the amount you are entitled to in your claim.
- Gather Evidence At The Scene
According to statistics from the state Department of Public Health, close to 100,000 people seek emergency medical care for personal injuries in Oregon each year. Among the most common causes are car accidents, bike and pedestrian accidents, falls, and sports or recreational injuries.
When any type of accident occurs and personal injuries are suspected, it is important to take certain steps to protect yourself and your rights. Notify the police immediately so they can file an accident report, which provides important evidence in filing a claim. Other evidence you can gather includes photos or videos showing the scene and your injuries and contact information for any eyewitnesses to what happened.
- Take Personal Injuries Seriously
Serious and potentially debilitating personal injuries in Oregon can happen in even seemingly minor accidents and may have symptoms that are subtle at first. Avoid downplaying the situation, which could have major potential future impacts on your health, and get medical care immediately.
Follow all your doctor’s instructions regarding testing, treatment, and follow-up care. Adhere to all work or other activity restrictions they recommend as well. Avoid engaging in prohibited activities, discussing your injuries with others, or posting about your situation on social media. All of this can be used by insurers to deny your claim.
- Avoid Settling Too Soon
Insurance can often help cover a portion of your costs when personal injuries in Oregon happen. However, dealing with insurance companies is notoriously challenging. Keep in mind that as for-profit companies, they have a financial motive for either denying or downplaying your claim.
Gathering evidence helps to prevent denials and, in some cases, the insurer may even surprise you by making an immediate settlement offer. However, be aware that this amount is likely to be less than you are actually entitled to and may very well leave you paying significant out-of-pocket costs, both now and in the years to come. Be aware you only have one chance to get the compensation you need to recover. Once you accept a settlement, you waive the right to any future claims.
- Calculate Total Costs
Any type of accident has the potential to be devastating to both your health and your finances. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), even a relatively minor car crash can result in tens of thousands of dollars in losses. However your personal injuries happened, by sure and tally both current and future costs you are likely to incur. This should include any ongoing medical care, lost wages, and additional expenses, such as modifications to allow for impairments and temporary help around your home.
- Consider Whether An Insurance Claim Or Personal Injury Lawsuit Is Your Best Option
While insurance can help cover the costs of most accidents, there are situations in which the at-fault party lacks coverage or policy limits fail to cover your total costs. Be aware that in this type of case, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit filed through the local civil court.
A lawsuit typically takes longer than negotiating an insurance settlement. However, under the Oregon Revised Statutes, it can also entitle you to additional compensation not available through insurers. This includes economic damages, covering current and future doctor bills, lost wages, and other actual costs, as well as pain, suffering, and other intangible losses.
Speak With Our Oregon Personal Injury Lawyer
Personal injuries in Oregon can have devastating impacts on your health and your financial security. To protect your rights in filing a claim, get the Johnston Law Firm on your side. We help you get the maximum amount you need to recover. To speak with our Oregon personal injury lawyer, call (503) 546-3167 or contact us online and request a consultation today.