Oregon Car Accident LawyerGet Maximum Compensation

In Oregon, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (Oregon Revised Statutes § 12.110). Claims against a government entity may require notice in as little as 180 days (Tort Claims Act notice). Missing the deadline can permanently bar your claim, so consult a licensed Oregon car accident lawyer immediately.

Oregon is an at-fault state. The driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages, and you file a claim against their liability insurance (none (minimum liability 25/50/20; PIP required for medical)). You can also file a third-party lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver.

Recoverable damages in Oregon typically include past and future medical expenses, lost wages and reduced earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases of gross negligence (e.g. drunk driving), punitive damages may also be available.

Oregon follows modified comparative (51% bar) negligence. You can recover damages only if you were less than 51% at fault; your compensation is reduced by your assigned percentage of fault.

Most Oregon car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney fees unless they win your case. Contingency fees typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or verdict. Initial consultations are free.

You are not legally required to hire an attorney, but studies consistently show that represented accident victims recover significantly more than unrepresented claimants — even after fees. A Oregon car accident lawyer is especially valuable for injuries, disputed liability, uninsured drivers, or claims involving government vehicles (short 180 days (Tort Claims Act notice) notice deadlines).