Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bend

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bend, Oregon?

  Non-emergencies may be reported through (541) 693-6911.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Bend, Oregon?

  Records may be requested through https://www.bendoregon.gov/government/departments/police/records-division.

• How much can one collect for their injuries following a Bend car accident?

  There is no predetermined sum that can be counted on for a settlement that a victim of a vehicle accident in Bend may expect to get. The ultimate result will be determined by a number of different aspects, including the severity of your injuries, the amount of time you will be unable to spend at work, and the prognosis for your health in the future. The greater the severity of an injury, the greater the potential compensation.

• What if one was partially at fault for the car accident in Bend, OR?

  Oregon is a state that applies modified comparative negligence. This implies that you can still collect damages in a personal injury case for an auto accident, but your awards will be lowered based on your degree of culpability. So long as your degree of negligence is found to be less than that of the other party, you will be able to recover damages. If your degree of fault exceeds that of the other party, you are unlikely to recover damages.

• What would happen if one was hit by a drunk driver in Bend, OR?

  If you've been hit and injured by a drunk driver in Bend, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, lost income, impaired quality of life, negligent infliction of emotional distress, loss of consortium, and medical costs. In some instances, the bar, social host, or restaurant that served alcohol to the driver may also be held liable.

• Can one still file a claim if the officer in Bend did not issue a citation to the other driver?

  Yes, the details of the collision, not whether an officer cited one of the drivers, determine negligence in Bend car accidents. In reality, if the officer did not actually see the collision, the citation is deemed “hearsay” and cannot be used to determine culpability in court. An attorney, on the other hand, will collect witness accounts and photos of the automobiles and accident site and may engage an investigator to present your case to a jury.

• What if one was hit by a hit-and-run driver in Bend, OR?

  Since all drivers in Oregon are obliged to carry at least $25,000 in uninsured motorist coverage, your insurance will “fill in” for the at-fault driver's insurance if you are struck by an uninsured motorist or hit-and-run driver. The Bend police will perform a preliminary inquiry into the collision and inform you of the other driver's insurance status.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.