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Involved in a motorcycle accident in Portland? In this article, we walk you through how a Portland motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue reimbursement that may be available for your related losses.
Key Takeaways
- The team at ELG Injury Lawyers uses their extensive experience handling motorcycle injury claims to provide knowledgeable, client-focused representation. They will assist you in gathering information regarding your motorcycle crash and build a claim based on available facts and evidence.
- ELG Injury Lawyers provides 24-hour assistance, free property damage assistance, and does not charge any upfront costs. These services make it easier for the injured client to seek and retain legal services.
- It is important to understand Oregon’s motorcycle laws. These laws cover issues such as helmet usage and excessive noise. In addition to protecting the motorcyclist, we aim for this education to help riders stay compliant with the law.
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Click to CallExperienced Portland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you’ve suffered serious harm from someone else’s negligence through a motorcycle accident in Portland, an experienced Portland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer can be instrumental in getting your life back to normal. Motorcycles present many hazards on the road, particularly when involved in collisions with automobiles. Unlike automobile passengers, motorcyclists have little to no protection while riding.
At ELG Injury Lawyers, the experienced team knows firsthand about the complexities of handling personal injury claims; they know specifically what needs to be handled when it comes to motorcycle crashes. As a result, the firm can help clients understand and protect their legal rights during the entire process of filing a claim. You should never be treated like just another case or number. Our attorneys understand every individual and their case is unique, so they use their combination of trial experience and negotiation skills to pursue compensation supported by the facts and circumstances of each case.
Experienced Legal Team
Working with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer greatly simplifies the often difficult task of obtaining fair compensation for a motorcycle crash victim. At ELG Injury Lawyers, our lead attorney is a Premier Member of the National Academy of Motorcycle Injury Lawyers. He brings years of proven experience and knowledge in the area of motorcycle accident law to every case he handles, resulting in a long list of satisfied clients.
This type of experience is critical in successfully navigating the complex elements associated with each client’s individual claim to help pursue compensation that may be available based on the facts and Oregon law.
Offices in Portland
After suffering a motorcycle accident, we know convenience is extremely important. For residents living in and around Portland, ELG Injury Lawyers has provided excellent service by opening their primary office near downtown Portland.
By locating their office on NE Flanders Street, they allow clients who live in southeast Portland and other surrounding areas, such as Multnomah County, to minimize travel time, thus reducing your overall stress levels and creating better opportunities for timely appointments.
24/7 Support for Accident Victims
Motorcycle accidents happen when least expected, and at any time of day. Unfortunately, insurance companies and law firms also operate on a standard Monday – Friday schedule, which leaves many accident victims scrambling for assistance after hours. That is why ELG Injury Lawyers has established its emergency service to serve accident victims 24 hours a day. Whether you need assistance with your claim or simply want to ask us questions, you will find someone available at ELG Injury Lawyers to talk to anytime you call.
Their central location in Portland allows all clients quick access to their offices.
No Upfront Costs
Another benefit of using the services of ELG Injury Lawyers is that we operate on a “no upfront fee” basis. Any responsibility for case costs will be explained in your written fee agreement. If we cannot succeed in collecting compensation for you, then you owe us nothing. This means that we have everything to lose and nothing to gain.
Because we only get paid when we recover compensation for you, our interests stay aligned with yours from the start. You can focus on your recovery while we focus on moving your claim forward.
Free Property Damage Assistance
We, at ELG Injury Lawyers, also offer free property damage assistance to clients who were damaged as a result of their motorcycle accident.
By assisting our clients in recovering fair compensation for both their physical injuries and property damage, at no additional expense, we can alleviate some of the anxiety that clients experience while trying to recover from their injuries.
You Deserve MORE than Just a Lawyer
When a motorcycle crash upends your life, you deserve more than just a lawyer; you deserve an unwavering advocate who understands riders’ rights inside and out. With decades of experience fighting for injured motorcyclists, our Portland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer stands apart from the rest, not only in the courtroom, but in the trust we’ve earned among those who ride.
Our long-standing affiliations with the National Academy of Motorcycle Injury Lawyers (NAMIL) and Biker Justice USA sharpen our insight into the challenges riders face and amplify our voice when demanding justice.
You don’t just get legal representation; you gain an ally who lives by the same code as you, committed to your recovery and relentless in seeking the full compensation you deserve.
Understanding Oregon Motorcycle Laws
It is important for each and every rider to understand Oregon’s motorcycle laws. These laws provide a higher level of safety, compliance, and help mitigate the risks associated with riding.
The legal team at ELG Injury Lawyers has many years of experience working with motorcycle injury clients and understands how these laws apply to their cases.
Helmet and Eyewear Requirements
All motorcyclists and passengers operating a motorcycle within the state of Oregon are required to wear DOT-approved helmet(s) at all times. This is subject to limited statutory exceptions under ORS 814.290. Any person operating a motorcycle must sit or stand astride the motorcycle while facing forward. Any person riding as a passenger must be seated in a designated position, which includes having a designated footrest. Although wearing eye protective gear is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for additional safety.
These protective requirements are very important for protecting both the operator of a motorcycle, as well as passengers, from serious injury resulting from a motorcycle accident.
Noise and Lighting Regulations
In addition to noise regulations implemented by the Department of Environmental Quality, motorcyclists in Oregon must adhere to light regulations (i.e., headlights required to be on at all times when on the highway) to promote safety and minimize the occurrence of accidents. Subject to limited statutory exceptions.
These regulations help to prevent avoidable dangers on the roadways of Oregon.
Passenger and Lane Splitting Rules
Any person wishing to operate a motorcycle with a passenger in the State of Oregon is required to have a designated seat for the passenger as well as foot rests. Following these rules is extremely important for maintaining compliance with Oregon’s motor vehicle laws as well as maintaining safety.
Additionally, in Oregon, lane splitting (riding between lanes) is strictly illegal. Not complying with this rule could lead to a Class B traffic violation; additionally, it may be relevant when fault is evaluated if a crash occurs.
Kind Words From Our Clients
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Portland
There are numerous reasons why motorcycle accidents occur in Portland. For example, when automobiles collide with motorcycles. A recent motorcycle accident on East Burnside Street just east of SE 55th Avenue resulted in a road closure so that investigators could study the accident site. Due to heavy volumes of automobiles traveling on the roadway in Portland, there is an increased likelihood of auto/motorcycle accidents occurring due to the actions of careless/speeding/distracted drivers. Some examples include: speeding; distracted driving; negligence.
Recognizing some of these causes will allow motorcyclists to take preventative action against accidents and ride safely.
Distracted Driving
One major cause of motorcycle accidents in Portland is distracted driving. Distracted driving refers to the act of performing another activity while driving, i.e., using a cell phone/text messaging; adjusting radio/stereo equipment; eating; etc. When one performs another task while operating a vehicle, they remove their eyes from the roadway and therefore do not see obstacles/traffic, which results in accidents.
Because motorcycles are smaller than other types of vehicles, other drivers may not realize that a motorcyclist is present until it is too late, making motorcyclists particularly susceptible to distracted driving.
Speeding and Reckless Behavior
We see many motorcycle crashes caused by speeding. Therefore, safe operation techniques should always be used. Often, drivers going at a higher MPH have much less time to react to potential hazards, slow down, or stop when necessary.
Aggressive driving, including but not limited to quick lane changes and not using signals, further increases the risk of accidents, underscoring the importance of responsible driving.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents are overwhelming; however, understanding what you must do immediately after your accident can make a great deal of difference. As soon as possible after a motorcycle crash, you should prioritize safety and medical care (even if your injuries seem minor), exchange required information, document the scene if possible, and comply with Oregon’s collision-reporting requirements, such as notifying local law enforcement agencies (such as the Portland Police Bureau).
An experienced attorney can assist you in navigating the complex legal processes surrounding motorcycle accident claims.
Seeking Medical Treatment
Seeking immediate medical treatment following a motorcycle accident is very important, even if your injuries appear to be minor. Getting prompt medical treatment will aid in your recovery and also provide valuable evidence to establish your claim. Medical documentation of your injuries via medical records or follow-up appointments is helpful to support your claim.
You may need to undergo additional physical therapy for rehabilitation depending on the extent of your injuries.
Reporting the Accident
Reporting the motorcycle accident to the appropriate authorities is crucial. But only certain crashes must be reported immediately to law enforcement. To report a motorcycle accident in Portland, you must submit a report to a Portland police officer detailing all aspects of the accident as soon as possible. Your police report can help document the collision, but by itself it does not establish fault and its use in a legal proceeding depends on applicable evidence rules. A separate report must also be submitted to the Oregon DMV within 72 hours if the accident meets the applicable property damage thresholds, or involves injury or death.
Documenting the accident scene thoroughly supports your claim and could help establish fault.
Consulting an Attorney
A motorcycle accident attorney in Portland can assist you in protecting your legal rights and make filing a claim easier. Clients of our firm enjoy access to 24-hour support and assistance to answer questions and offer guidance throughout the claims process.
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will represent you through the entire legal process, deal with the insurance company for you, and advocate for your compensation supported by your claim.
Can you sue a negligent driver in Oregon if your medical bills are still being paid by insurance?
“Yes. Imagine you’re on I-5 down in Portland and traffic is just getting crazy. You get into an accident and you start seeing a doctor for your injuries. Insurance is covering your medical bills and your care is being taken care of.
You’re getting treated. That really does not in any way prevent you from making a claim with the at fault driver’s insurance company and working with a personal injury attorney to get you the full compensation you deserve.”
Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim
Generally speaking, you will need evidence showing another party was legally responsible for the crash and that it caused your injuries or other applicable losses to build and preserve a motorcycle accident claim. Your claim must also be filed within two years of the accident. Notify your insurance carrier, document the accident location, and gather any available evidence (i.e., photos, witnesses, etc.), including obtaining a copy of any law enforcement report. Not every step is required in every personal injury claim. Please consult a motorcycle accident lawyer for concise information.
If you engage a motorcycle accident attorney early enough, they can ensure that all necessary evidence is collected and preserved; therefore, protecting your rights.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Working with an insurance company can be overwhelming. However, working with a knowledgeable and experienced motorcycle accident attorney who knows how to properly negotiate with the insurer and evaluate your claim, and also knows how to properly advocate for your compensation supported by the evidence.
Our firm handles qualifying personal injury matters on a contingency-fee basis, meaning attorney fees are not owed unless compensation is recovered. Responsibility for case costs is explained in the written fee agreement. Therefore, during this time of difficulty in recovering from your injuries, you will not have any added financial burden.
Legal Proceedings and Compensation
Following a motorcycle accident, legal proceedings can include compensation for medical bills, lost income due to being unable to work, and non-pecuniary damages, such as pain and suffering.
Having knowledge of what your legal rights are and possible outcomes regarding litigation will allow you to prepare for the process and hold those accountable.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovering from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident can be a lengthy and arduous process. Even if your injuries appear minor, it is still essential to seek immediate medical attention because some injuries can worsen over time. Recovery periods vary based on the extent of injury and overall health status of each victim.
Both physical and emotional recovery are essential for total well-being. Depending on the nature and severity of the injury(s), long-term care may be required.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is essential for restoring strength and mobility after sustaining severe motorcycle accident injuries. Adhering to the recommended physical therapy program will substantially enhance your ability to recover fully from your injuries and restore normal strength, flexibility, and mobility, allowing you to resume normal daily functions.
Long-term Medical Care
For individuals who suffered severe motorcycle accident injuries, long-term medical needs may be required. As an example, individuals who experienced internal bleeding may require continued medical observation to avoid developing further serious health complications. In addition to physical therapy, occupational therapy may be helpful in assisting individuals to regain the skills necessary to perform everyday tasks again.
Ensuring that long-term medical needs are met is key to achieving complete recovery and improving the injured person’s quality of life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Portland?
Following a motorcycle accident in Portland, check yourself for injuries and seek medical attention if needed. Documenting the scene of the accident is also important. Report the incident to the Portland Police Bureau so they can create an official report regarding the accident.
Why is it important to consult a motorcycle accident attorney?
It’s very important for you to consult with an attorney who is experienced in motorcycle accidents. Our attorneys will help you protect your legal rights. He or she will help you navigate through the insurance claims system. And he or she will evaluate your claim, handle negotiations, and help you make informed decisions about any settlement offer. Your choice to hire a motorcycle accident attorney could have a huge influence over how well your case goes.
Are there any upfront costs when hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer?
There are no upfront attorney fees when you hire our motorcycle accident lawyer. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency-fee basis, which means they don’t charge you until you’ve successfully gotten money back (i.e., compensation) for your damages. Any responsibility for case costs is explained in your written fee agreement.
What kind of compensation can I receive from a motorcycle accident claim?
When you file a motorcycle accident claim, you may be entitled to compensation for the following: medical bills; lost income/lost wages; pain & suffering; damage to property (e.g., your bike).
What are the helmet requirements for motorcyclists in Oregon?
Yes, yes! Motorcyclists and passengers in Oregon must wear helmets that meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards at all times. This is important to ensure proper safety during your ride. This is subject to limited statutory exceptions under ORS 814.290.
