Bend Car Accident Lawyers

Guidance Through Collision Claims in Deschutes County, Oregon

The number of fatal and severe auto accident injuries that people sustain in Oregon keeps rising. In 2016, fatalities relating to automobile accidents increased by nearly 12%, and serious injuries relating to automobile accidents increased by nearly 9%. If you’re one of the unlucky people whose sustained serious injuries because of another person’s careless driving, we can help.

At Miller & Hopp Attorneys at Law, our experienced lawyers have negotiated hundreds of fair and just settlements for auto accident clients. 

Please contact Miller & Hopp Attorneys at Law today for your free injury consultation. You don’t pay unless we get money for you.

When To Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

As a general guideline, it’s best to contact an attorney after a car accident as soon as possible. There are a couple reasons for this, the first being the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations is a law which is implemented on a state by state basis which allocates a specific timeline when personal injury cases can be filed. According to the Oregon Revised Statutes section 12.110 the state of Oregon has a two-year timeline. More specifically, this means you have two years to file your claim and if you try to file a claim outside of this tine period, you will most likely be unable to do so. There are some exceptions to this law where the filing time may change, including:

• If the injury victim is a minor at the time of the accident
• The negligent party left the state before a claim could be filed

Beyond the statute of limitations, car accident injuries in particular can pose specifically challenges not faced with other injuries covered by personal injury law in that they are most usually soft tissue injuries. Soft tissue injuries are injuries that affect the tendons, ligaments and muscles, such as whiplash. Like whiplash, these types of injuries typically progressively get worse in the following days or weeks after the accident. 

Because of this, many injury victims sign a compensation agreement with an insurance company before talking to a lawyer only to discover that their injuries are worse than they initially believed but are not able to recover any additional. If you have suffered injuries at the hands of a negligent driver, talk to our Bend car accident attorney for help today! 

How Can an Oregon Car Accident Lawyer Help?

Car accident attorneys specialize in helping crash victims get the compensation that they deserve. They provide a wide range of services, from investigating accidents and gathering evidence to negotiating settlements with insurance companies. An experienced auto accident attorney is also able to guide clients through the complexities and intricacies of Oregon auto accident laws. They understand the various rules and regulations associated with auto accident claims in the state, and can take steps to ensure that their clients receive fair compensation for their losses. From identifying liable parties to filing paperwork on behalf of their clients, attorneys provide invaluable assistance when it comes to resolving auto accident claims in Oregon.

Some of the services Oregon accident attorneys provide include:

• Investigating Accidents: Attorneys investigate car crash scenes and carefully review all relevant evidence in order to build a strong case for their client. This includes taking photographs of the scene, examining police reports, interviewing witnesses, etc.
• Gathering Evidence: Attorneys collect evidence such as medical records, vehicle damage documentation, and other information about the accident in order to support their client’s claim.
• Negotiating Settlements: Experienced lawyers have a good understanding of Oregon's auto accident laws and can use this knowledge to negotiate settlements with insurance companies on behalf of their client.
• Identifying Liable Parties: Lawyers have an extensive network of resources at their disposal which makes them better equipped than most individuals when it comes to tracking down responsible parties that should be held accountable for damages caused by a car crash.
• Filing Paperwork: Car accident attorneys handle all required legal paperwork on behalf of their clients so they don’t have to worry about navigating complex legal processes alone.

What Should You Do After a Car Accident?

Car accidents can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming events, but knowing what steps to take immediately after an accident can help ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and facilitate the insurance claims process. Here's a guide on what to do after a car accident:

• Ensure Safety First: Check for injuries: Before anything else, assess yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
• Move to a Safe Location: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Exchange Information: Collect information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all involved parties. This should include names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance companies, and policy numbers.
• Gather Witness Information: If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details in case you need their statements later.
• Document the Scene: Take photos: Use your phone to capture images of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
• Write Down Details: Record the time, date, location, weather conditions, and a brief description of how the accident occurred.
• Contact the Police: In many cases, it's essential to report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. Cooperate with the responding officers, provide accurate information, and obtain a copy of the police report.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide all the necessary details and follow their instructions for filing a claim.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don't feel injured right away, it's advisable to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately, and documenting your condition is crucial for insurance claims.
• Preserve Evidence: Keep all documents, receipts, and records related to the accident, such as medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence with the insurance company.
• Consult with an Attorney: If you believe you may need legal representation, consult with an attorney experienced in personal injury and auto accident cases. They can advise you on your rights and potential legal action.
• Follow Up on Insurance Claims: Stay in contact with your insurance company and provide them with requested information promptly. Document all interactions and keep a record of any promises made.
• Repair Your Vehicle: Get repair estimates and have your vehicle fixed at a reputable auto body shop. Your insurance company will guide you through this process.
• Be Cautious on Social Media: Avoid discussing the accident on social media. Anything you say online could potentially be used against you in a legal case.
• Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities in your state regarding car accidents and insurance claims. Consult with an attorney for guidance if needed.

Car Accidents Are Emotionally, Physically, & Financially Devastating

Oregon is one of the safest states in the country when it comes to auto accidents. Unfortunately, people still drive carelessly, under the influence, or aggressively. Even with Oregon’s strict seat belt and cellphone use laws, accidents can happen. Car accidents are one of the leading causes of injury and death in Oregon. Most of those accidents are the direct result of another driver’s thoughtless behavior behind the wheel. Roadway departures and speeding account for a large number of fatal car wrecks in the state.

When you’re injured in an accident, the injuries you sustain aren’t just physically painful. They often result in financial devastation. On top of that, our clients often come to us afraid to drive after the fact and consumed with anger and a feeling of injustice from what’s happened to them.

We understand how devastating and unfair a car wreck can be for you and your loved ones. When you contact Miller & Hopp Attorneys at Law, we’ll give your personalized, fast attention. We’ll carefully listen to the details of your case. Our lawyers are here to provide you with diligent legal representation. Our legal team is knowledgeable and skilled at moving your auto accident injury claim along through either arbitration, mediation, a settlement, or a trial. We’ve successfully won numerous fair and just settlements for our auto accident clients in Oregon.

Don't wait to get help with your case. Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation!