Car accidents in Eugene have become increasingly common and can cause potentially devastating personal injuries. As a driver, how you handle the situation can have serious impacts on your life and your rights to compensation. Our Eugene car accident attorneys offer tips on what to do if you are involved in a crash and ways to protect yourself.
What To Do If You Are Injured In An Eugene Car Accident
A quick scan of recent headlines shows an alarming increase in car accidents in Eugene. Traffic data collected as part of the Eugene Vision Zero program show crashes occurring throughout the city. These can leave drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and others involved suffering serious personal injuries.
If you are involved in any type of car accident in Eugene, it is vitally important to follow these steps:
- Stop at or near the accident site, taking care to avoid blocking traffic if possible;
- Report the accident immediately to the police;
- Exchange names, contact, and insurance information with other drivers involved;
- Gather other evidence, such as photos of the scene and contact information for witnesses;
- Seek medical care, regardless of the severity of your injuries.
Symptoms of car accident injuries in Eugene may be subtle at first but could have major impacts on your health. Follow all of your doctor’s instructions in regards to follow-up care. If other drivers were at fault, you have the right to hold them accountable for your damages. To avoid having to pay out-of-pocket, contact our Eugene car accident attorneys before accepting any settlements.
What To Do If You Are At Fault In A Crash
Car accidents can happen to even otherwise experienced and cautious drivers. Unfortunately, a momentary lapse in judgment or a simple mistake on your part can end up playing a major role in a collision. In this situation, it is vitally important to remain at the scene and cooperate with law enforcement. However, refrain from making any type of statements that could be used against you or signing any documents without speaking to an experienced Eugene car accident attorney first.
In terms of being liable for damages others suffer or seeking compensation for your own injuries, our state follows the rule of comparative negligence. Under the Oregon Statutes (ORS 31.600), this means that even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation. However, the amount you receive is reduced by the percentage in which you were at fault.
Discuss Your Case With Our Eugene Car Accident Attorney
Car accidents are complex events and multiple parties involved often share a portion of the blame. Before making any statements that could be used against you or settling for less than what you need to recover in a claim, reach out to the Johnston Law Firm P.C. Call (503) 546-3167 or contact our office online and request a consultation to discuss your case with our Eugene car accident attorney today.