There are around 10,000-12,000 reported crashes in Portland each year, resulting in thousands of injuries and costly damages. In 2021 alone, Oregon saw 55 fatal crashes, over 23,000 non-fatal injury crashes, and 21,000 incidents involving only property damage. Pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and young drivers are especially vulnerable, with over 700 pedestrian crashes, 450 bicycle crashes, 915 motorcycle crashes, and nearly 4,500 crashes involving drivers aged 15-20 across the state last year. With accidents being such a common occurrence on Oregon’s busy roads, it’s critical to know how to respond after a collision to protect yourself physically and financially.
The immediate aftermath of a crash can be chaotic but taking key steps at the scene and in the hours following can make a major difference in your recovery. Here is a quick guide to the most important actions to take after an accident.
Contact Emergency Services
The very first thing you should do after an accident is contact emergency services if anyone is injured or in immediate danger. Call 911 and provide the operator with details on the location, vehicles involved, and injuries sustained. Emergency medical care should be the top priority for any victims. Police should also be contacted so there is an official report documenting the event. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s best to call the authorities just in case. Having a police report can help tremendously if you need to make an injury claim later.
Check on All Parties Involved
Once you’ve called for medical assistance, check on the other drivers, passengers, pedestrians or cyclists involved in the crash. Ask if they are okay and see if you can assist them in any way while waiting for first responders. Do not move injured individuals unless they are in immediate, life-threatening danger. Be sure to keep them as comfortable as possible while professional help is on the way.
Document the Scene
While at the accident scene, document as much information as you can about what transpired. If possible, take photographs capturing the damage to vehicles, positioning, street signs, traffic lights, weather conditions, and anything else that could be relevant. Write down the make, model, and license plate of all vehicles involved. Get contact details and insurance information from the other parties as well, asking for their version of events. The more documentation and evidence you have, the better.
Consider Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
If injuries or significant damages were sustained, it’s wise to at least consult with injury attorneys in Portland, or in the location you’re at, about your legal options after an accident. A lawyer can handle the insurance claims process on your behalf and make sure you receive full and fair compensation.
They know how to effectively document evidence, establish liability, demonstrate damages, negotiate with insurers, and take the matter to court if needed. Having strong legal guidance can make a major difference in the outcome of your case.
Report to Authorities
Finally, file an official accident report with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Forms are typically available online or can be obtained from the DMV office. Make sure you submit yours within the required timeframe, which varies by state. The report should include all pertinent details like date, location, parties involved, weather conditions, injuries/damages, and your recollection of events. Having one on file can help protect you later if issues arise with insurance claims or liability disputes.
Staying calm, following procedures, and seeking help from professionals can help maximize your protections and claim post-accident. While no amount of preparation can prevent accidents entirely, you can equip yourself to handle them properly by knowing these important steps to take.
