Being in a car crash is a scary and traumatic thing to experience. While the initial flow of events post-crash may feel like a blur, the next steps you take soon after can help protect your rights and minimize your legal consequences.
In this blog, we will share five key steps you need to take after a car accident in Oregon:
Stay alert and call for help
After the crash, you need to keep your composure and dial 911 for emergency assistance. If you think you have minor injuries, try to move to a safe spot and assess your condition.
It is important to note that Under Oregon car accident laws, if your crash has caused an injury, a death or over $2,500 in property damage, you must report it to the police and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Wait for the police
After you inform the police about your accident, you must remain at the scene until they arrive to investigate. During this process, they will ask vital details about the incident from you and the other party.
When you have an official police report, you help strengthen the evidence list of your personal injury claim.
Exchange information
Before leaving the scene and going to the hospital with the paramedics, you must ensure that you have taken the other party’s contact details and insurance information. Additionally, if you see any witnesses nearby, ask for their names, mobile numbers and home addresses as well.
Seek medical care
After dealing with the main factors of your car collision, you should prioritize your health and seek prompt medical care for your injuries. Even if you think your injuries are only minor, you must not delay your treatments as this may significantly worsen your condition.
Make sure to keep a copy of all your medical records, prescriptions and receipts. These documents are essential for your claims process.
Contact your insurance company
To formally begin your personal injury protection (PIP) benefit claims process, you need to call your insurance company and provide them with proof of your accident and your medical expenses.
If your crash injuries lead to work absences of at least two weeks, you must also inform your insurer about it. This is because your PIP benefit may cover 70% of your wage loss, capped at $3,000 per month.
Your right to fair compensation
Being in a car collision is an overwhelming experience. However, by learning about which vital steps you need to take post-crash, you can follow the proper legal protocols and file your PIP benefit claim with confidence in the process.