The first thing to know is that auto accident laws are different in all states. Whether it is about determining fault or when you need to file your claim, there are many different laws in many states. For instance, there is a fault-based system for auto accidents in Oregon. So, if you caused the car crash, you need to cover the damages for the other driver. However, the state also has a comparative negligence rule, so, your auto accident claim is affected by how much you were responsible for the crash.

So, if you are 40% to blame for the crash, the damages would be cut by 40%. This is different than many states, such as Virginia, where if you were 1% to blame, you may not get compensation for your losses at all. Your auto accident injury lawyers understand the laws of Oregon and will base their strategy on state laws regarding accidents and liability.

Next, many accident victims may just allow the insurance companies to sort the issue out. That can be a problem if you do not have your auto accident attorney portland oregon working for you. Remember, all insurance companies are driven by profit, so the adjuster on both sides will be looking to save their company money. That may not be in your best interest, so it is best to have an attorney advocating for your rights. You will almost always get more money if you have a lawyer fighting for you, even after you consider their legal fees.

Another key issue – you should not just hire any attorney in any specialty to work your case. Many attorneys do not have enough experience with car accidents to ensure the best result in a Portland car crash claim.

For example, many personal injury lawyers focus on medical malpractice, which is a very complex specialty, but different from car accidents. If you have an attorney who does not work with car accident laws often, you may not have the best result. It also is beneficial to have a lawyer handle the case who can take the case to court and win. Sure, most cases end in a settlement, but what if your case needs to go to a jury? You should have a lawyer who is comfortable in front of a jury and can get a good result.

Last, you need to have a lawyer who can file your case quickly if you want to have the best result. Oregon only has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. That sounds like a long time, but if you want to win, it is often best to file it as fast as possible. People’s memories fade and evidence can disappear, so have your lawyer get on top of the case fast.