Best Car Accident Lawyers in Medford

FAQs

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

  The Medford Police Department can be reached at (541) 774-2250.

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

  To obtain a police accident report in Medford, call (541) 770-4783, or send an email to records@cityofmedford.org.

• What is the next step to take if you were in a Medford car accident and ran over a pet?

  Keep calm and try to assess the extent of the animal's injury. If it is possible or needed, get it out of harm's way and out of traffic, as it may get run over again. Try to find the owner and inform them of the accident. If they are around, try to offer help if you are capable, such as driving them to the nearest Medford vet. If you are unable to find the owner, report the incident to the nearest police station.

• What is the best way to report a car accident in Medford to the DMV?

  The best way to report a Medford accident to the DMV is via email. Download the Oregon Traffic Accident and Insurance Report (https://www.oregon.gov/odot/Forms/DMV/32fill.pdf) and then once you accomplish it, send it to OregonDMVAccidents@odot.oregon.gov. You also have the option to fax the DMV Crash Reporting Unit at (503) 945-5267, and reach out to them via regular mail. Send your report to 1905 Lana Ave NE, Salem, OR 97314.

• How does personal injury protection coverage help someone who was in a car accident in Medford?

  PIP provides coverage for the policyholder regardless of who was at fault for the car accident in Medford. This policy can cover medical and funeral expenses, lost income, and other expenses that have come as a result of your injuries. An example of a related cost would be hiring house help because of being rendered incapable of daily chores, and childcare costs during hospitalization.

• How do you avoid getting into a car accident in Medford with a road rager?

  The best advice to have in situations like this is also the hardest to follow sometimes: Keep yourself from engaging with this behavior, as this may only further excite or aggravate the driver because they elicited a response from you. If you are positive that the other driver means to cause you harm, call the Medford authorities immediately.

• How long does a car accident victim have when filing for damage claims against a government agency in Medford?

  Normally, personal injury cases have a two-year statute of limitations. However, if the case is against a government entity in Medford, the statute is drastically reduced to 180 days or around six months. Within this time period, the injured must give notice of their intent to file a claim. If the case involves the passing of the injured, the statute is one year from the date of death.

• 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.