What is a Personal Injury in Portland, Oregon?
“Personal injury” law, also known as “tort” law, encompasses a broad spectrum of negligence claims that result in harm to a person’s body, mind, or emotions. Each personal injury case is unique, as the extent and impact of injuries vary greatly from one individual to another.
Injuries ranging from broken bones and traumatic brain injuries to internal injuries and paralysis can arise in situations where negligence plays a role. This includes, but is not limited to, vehicle accidents caused by distracted, impaired, or speeding drivers, as well as premises liability cases involving hazardous conditions, such as slip and falls, negligent security, or falls from heights. Personal injuries can result from virtually any reckless or negligent act, occurring anywhere, at any time, and to anyone.
That’s why we’re here—to help when you need it most.
What Does a Portland Personal Injury Attorney Do?
A personal injury attorney in Portland, Oregon, plays a vital role in assisting individuals who have been harmed due to the negligence or misconduct of another person, organization, or entity. Their primary goal is to advocate for their clients and seek compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial hardships they’ve endured.
Here’s how we can help:
Initial Consultation
The process begins with a conversation. Our Portland personal injury attorneys meet with clients to review the details of the incident and the resulting injuries. During this consultation, they evaluate the case’s strengths and provide an initial assessment of its potential.
Investigation
Thorough investigation is key. Attorneys gather evidence, secure accident reports, interview witnesses, and collect medical records to build a compelling case. They meticulously examine every detail to ensure no stone is left unturned.
Legal Analysis
Analyzing the facts, lawyers assess liability and calculate the full extent of damages. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. They may collaborate with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to bolster the case with expert insights and testimony.
Client Guidance and Support
Attorneys provide steady guidance throughout the legal journey. They keep clients informed about progress, answer their questions, and offer advice on critical decisions. Advocating for their clients’ rights, they ensure their interests are represented and their cases are handled with care.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Personal injury attorneys take on the complexities of dealing with insurance companies, negotiating with adjusters to secure a fair settlement that covers all losses. If negotiations don’t lead to an acceptable resolution, they are prepared to take the next step.
Litigation
When settlement talks fail, the attorney will escalate the case by filing a lawsuit and representing the client in court. This involves drafting legal documents, presenting evidence, and arguing the case before a judge or jury, ensuring the client’s story is effectively told.
Recovery Assistance
After achieving a favorable settlement or court judgment, the attorney helps the client navigate the post-recovery process. This includes negotiating with medical providers and lien holders to ensure the client receives the full compensation they deserve.
Portland personal injury attorneys are more than legal advocates—they’re dedicated partners in the pursuit of justice and recovery.
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our Portland personal injury lawyers represent clients in the following practice areas:
If you would like more information on filing a claim, please contact our Portland personal injury lawyers directly or review our FAQs to get quick answers to your most pressing questions.
Do You Have an Injury Claim in Portland, OR?
Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim: Key Elements of Liability
To successfully pursue a personal injury claim in Oregon, it’s essential to establish key elements that prove liability. Here’s what needs to be demonstrated:
Negligence
You must show that the party responsible for your injury acted negligently. Negligence occurs when someone behaves in a way that a reasonable person would not or fails to act as a reasonable person would. This includes acts of carelessness or recklessness.
Causation
It must be proven that the negligent action caused your injury. Oregon law allows for damages related to new injuries caused by the incident or aggravation of pre-existing conditions. Both are compensable under state law, but causation must be clearly established.
Damages
In Oregon, plaintiffs can pursue two types of damages:
- Economic Damages: These include past, present, and future medical expenses, lost wages, and other tangible costs that can be calculated.
- Non-Economic Damages: These encompass pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, and limitations on everyday activities. Examples include an inability to engage in hobbies, perform work at the same level, or carry out simple tasks like bending to pick up an object.
Non-economic damages focus on how the injury has negatively impacted your quality of life.
The Process: Building a Strong Case
Once you hire us, we’ll notify the relevant insurance companies, directing all communication to us so you won’t have to manage those interactions. Depending on your case, our Portland personal injury attorneys will collaborate with medical professionals, investigators, and accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your claim. This helps ensure a timely and fair resolution.
Determining Case Value
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, we assess each case individually, carefully outlining the details of the accident, injuries, and future care needs. This comprehensive approach allows us to negotiate effectively with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Compensation may cover:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
- Property damage
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
Each case is unique, which is why having an experienced attorney by your side is critical before engaging with the at-fault party’s insurer.
Statute of Limitations for Oregon Personal Injury Claims
Oregon law (ORS § 12.110) generally requires personal injury claims to be filed within two years of the accident. Certain exceptions may apply, such as claims involving government entities or minors. Acting quickly allows us to preserve key evidence and build a strong case.
Steps to Take After an Accident
- Prioritize Safety: Seek medical attention immediately for any injuries.
- Document the Scene: Take photographs and gather witness contact information.
- Report the Incident: Notify the appropriate authorities, such as the police or property owner.
- Consult an Attorney: Speak with a personal injury lawyer before engaging with insurance adjusters to protect your rights.
Proving Negligence
To hold another party liable, you must demonstrate their negligence caused your injuries. Negligence is defined as a failure to act with reasonable care under the circumstances. Examples include:
- A driver running a stop sign and causing a crash
- A trucking company failing to train its drivers
- A property owner ignoring known hazards
- A medical professional providing substandard care
Oregon follows a modified comparative negligence rule (ORS § 31.600). This means you can recover compensation if you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. If you share some fault, your compensation will be reduced proportionally.
Will You Need to Testify in Court?
It’s possible, though uncommon. Most personal injury cases settle out of court. However, if your case proceeds to trial, your testimony may be essential in demonstrating how your injuries have impacted your life. Your attorney will guide you through this process.
Maximizing Recovery: Your Legal Advocate
Our Portland personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping clients recover the full compensation they deserve. Recovery may include:
- Property damage repair
- Medical bills and rehabilitative care
- Lost wages and diminished earning potential
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Long-term disability or disfigurement
- Compensation for wrongful death
Every personal injury case is unique. Consult with the Law Offices of Jon Friedman today to protect your rights and begin pursuing justice.
Do I Need to See a Doctor to Bring a Personal Injury Claim?
Absolutely. Seeing a doctor after an accident is crucial for your health and well-being. Many injuries, like concussions or internal trauma, may be more severe than they initially appear. Additionally, medical records are essential if you plan to file a claim. Delaying treatment not only jeopardizes your health but could also weaken your case. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries are unrelated to the accident or not serious enough to warrant compensation. Seeking immediate medical attention protects both your health and your legal rights.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Jon Friedman?
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, we understand the challenges personal injury victims face and are here to support you when it matters most. As a family-run boutique firm led by father-and-son attorneys Jon M. Friedman and Jon D. Friedman, we dedicate time and resources to every case we take. Our team is skilled at holding insurance companies accountable and delivering results for our clients. When you contact our Portland office, you will work with an experienced Oregon personal injury attorney who will listen to your story and provide clear answers to your legal questions, conduct a thorough investigation to gather the evidence you need, handle all paperwork and negotiate directly with the insurance companies, and take aggressive legal action if necessary to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Can I Afford to Hire a Top Personal Injury Lawyer?
Yes, you can. At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, we represent clients on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront costs, hourly fees, or out-of-pocket expenses. We only get paid if you win your case. If there is no recovery, you owe us nothing. Our mission is to put money back in your pocket, not add to your stress. Your initial consultation is always free, confidential, and without obligation.
Why Trust Us With Your Case?
Since 1984, the Law Offices of Jon Friedman has been committed to fighting for the rights of injured victims throughout Oregon. Our Portland personal injury attorneys provide free consultations to evaluate your case and offer straightforward advice. With decades of experience and thousands of successful resolutions, we are proud to be a trusted name in Oregon personal injury law. If you or someone you love has been injured due to another party’s negligence, contact us today. We offer free, no-obligation consultations via phone, email, or in person. Can’t come to us? We’ll come to you.
Comprehensive Personal Injury Representation
Recovering from an accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our family-run law firm is dedicated to helping injured victims navigate the legal process and secure the compensation they deserve. From start to finish, we offer personalized attention and strategic solutions tailored to your unique case. Based in Portland, we serve clients across Oregon and handle a wide range of personal injury claims, including but not limited to auto accidents, truck accidents, premises liability, medical malpractice, product liability, and wrongful death. Whatever the cause of your injury, we’re here to help you understand your options and take the next steps toward recovery. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
- Auto Accidents: We handle the full range of motor vehicle accident injury claims. If you were hurt in a car crash in Oregon, do not take on the insurance companies alone. Contact our Portland auto accident lawyers for a free review of your case.
- Medical Malpractice: Medical malpractice occurs when the negligence of a health care provider—a doctor, nurse, hospital, etc.—contributes to patient harm. These are complex claims, and you need an experienced Portland medical malpractice attorney.
- Semi-Truck Crashes: Given their immense size, semi-trucks pose a heightened safety hazard. We have the knowledge and experience to hold negligent truckers and truck companies accountable. Contact our Portland truck accident lawyers today for help.
- Wrongful Death Claims: The loss of an immediate family member to an accident caused by negligence is a terrible, heartbreaking experience or endure. We help grieving families navigate the civil wrongful death claims process.
- Motorcycle Collisions: A lot can go wrong on a motorcycle. It is imperative that injured riders receive the highest level of professional representation. Our Portland motorcycle accident lawyers have the expertise that you can trust.
- Pedestrian Accident Injuries: Pedestrians are inherently vulnerable. Too many motorists in our region fail to take proper care when around pedestrians. Our Portland, OR, pedestrian accident attorneys are standing by, ready to protect your rights.
- Bicycle Accident Injuries: Portland has a well-earned reputation as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country. Yet accidents remain a serious issue. If you were hurt in a bicycle accident, contact our Portland, OR, personal injury lawyer for immediate help.
- Boating Accidents: While Oregon offers some of the best spots in the country for recreational boating, the unfortunate reality is that accidents do happen. We handle the full range of boat injury claims in the Portland area.
- Aviation Accidents and Airplane Injuries: Were you or a loved one hurt on a plane? Whether a large commercial flight or a small private plane, our Portland aviation injury attorneys have the skills and experience that you can rely on for legal support.
- Premises Liability Cases: Beyond slip and fall cases, we handle all other types of premises liability claims in Portland, including negligent security claims. Negligent businesses and property owners must be held accountable.
- Construction Accidents: Commercial and residential construction sites can be dangerous places. Proper, proactive safety precautions are a must. We handle all types of construction accident injury claims, representing both workers and passersby.
- Dangerous and Defective Products: Under Oregon law, a manufacturer or distributor may be strictly liable for the harm caused by a dangerous and defective product.
Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys in Portland, OR for a Free Consultation Today
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our Portland personal injury attorneys are compassionate, experienced advocates for victims and families. Hurt in a bad accident? We are on your side. Contact us today to set up your free, completely confidential initial consultation. From our Portland law office, we fight for the rights and interests of injured victims all across the region, including in Multnomah County, Washington County, Columbia County, and Clackamas County.
If you believe you have a claim and have questions or concerns about it, please contact our Multnomah County personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of Jon Friedman today by calling 503-242-1440 for a free confidential assessment of your claim.
