Comparative Negligence in Oregon: What Car Accident Victims Need to Know
You were in a crash. And now someone, an insurance adjuster, the other driver, maybe both, is suggesting you were partly…
After a traumatic car accident, your focus should be healing your physical and emotional pain — not worrying about how you’ll afford the rising stack of medical bills. Our Eugene car accident attorneys are here to help you alleviate financial worry during this already stressful time. Our personal injury lawyers make sure your voice is never silenced; we fight insurance companies and corporations on your behalf using experienced lawyers and effective negotiation tactics. Our law firm near Eugene proudly serves the entire state of Oregon, so no matter where you live or where your accident occurred, Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC, can help.
Real Client. Real Results.
CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS
Support and Solutions After a Car Accident in Eugene
A serious car accident isn’t something you can walk away from. Physical injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord or back injuries, broken bones, internal bleeding, burns, and disfigurement are common and require ongoing care and rehabilitation. On top of physical pain, emotional pain can surface in the hours, days, or weeks following an accident. PTSD and anxiety disorders need the same medical care as physical injuries to help you move on from the memory of your accident.
We know this type of care quickly becomes incredibly expensive and even financially impossible for most families in Oregon. That’s why we fight insurance companies for you to recover every dollar of compensation you deserve; everyone deserves a chance to heal, regardless of their ability to pay.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Eugene?
Being in an accident can be a jarring experience, but it’s important to follow a few steps immediately afterward. First, stay in your vehicle to assess injuries. If your car is still operational, slowly drive it to a safe place. Examine yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries, then call 911. Calling 911 will speed up the process of police and any necessary ambulance arriving quickly on the scene. If you were injured in the car accident, contact Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC. Our car accident attorneys in Eugene will fight to ensure your rights are protected and will assist with your case.
What types of compensation am I entitled to for my car accident case in Eugene?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including lost wages, medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. It’s essential to understand the different types of compensation that may be available to you and your case. To learn more about the various types of compensation you may be entitled to, contact a car accident attorney in Eugene. At Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC, our Eugene car accident attorneys will consult with you to determine the specifics of your case to ensure that you receive fair compensation for all damages incurred.
Tirelessly Advocating for You
With the award-winning legal team at Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC, you’re not alone. Our car accident attorneys walk you through the entire process, start to finish. Here’s how:
Step One
File Your Claim
Our expert car accident attorneys start by helping you navigate the claims process. We’ll manage the critical legal paperwork and handle all communication on your behalf. We take over all of this so that you can focus on getting better and getting your life back.
Step Two
Receive an Offer and Make Counteroffers
Once you have recovered, we’ll gather up the rest of the documents that make up the evidence in your case, put together a demand letter which lays out the legal theories and arguments, and fight for you. Insurance companies then make an initial offer and this is where the seasoned experts at Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC really do their best work. We negotiate with the insurer and don’t back down or give up; if we can’t negotiate a fair agreement with the insurance company, we’ll file your case in court. There, we’ll serve as an advocate for you against the insurance companies to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Step Three
Get Your Payout
Finally, once we’ve come to an agreement on your settlement amount, we’ll prepare your case for final resolution. We’ll negotiate and pay any liens, confirm your medical bills have been paid and that nothing remains outstanding, and then get a check for your settlement funds. We only take a fee if we win your case. That way, we guarantee that you’re getting exactly what you deserve.
Don’t risk losing out on the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with our law firm and work with someone who knows not just what to do, but can perform at a high level for you to maximize all sources for you; we’re proud to have won multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in Oregon for victims just like you.
FAQs About Car Accidents in Eugene
Car accident claims can be confusing. To help clear things up, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions.
Do I have to file an accident report with Oregon DMV after a crash in Eugene?
Often, yes. Oregon DMV generally requires drivers to submit a Traffic Collision and Insurance Report within 72 hours when certain conditions apply, including any injury or death, or vehicle damage over $2,500. You still have to file even if police made a report.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Oregon?
Most Oregon injury lawsuits have a two-year deadline.
And if a government vehicle or public agency is involved, there can be a much faster notice deadline, sometimes 180 days.
If you’re unsure which timeline applies, now’s a good moment to call and get answers.
What if I was partially at fault for the crash?
You may still be able to recover compensation. Oregon law allows recovery as long as your share of fault is not greater than the combined fault of the other parties, but your recovery can be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Will PIP cover my medical bills after a car accident in Eugene?
In many cases, yes. Oregon auto policies generally include Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which can help pay medical expenses up to $15,000 per person for reasonable and necessary care within two years of the injury.
We can also help you figure out what else may be available beyond PIP.
What if the other driver is uninsured or doesn’t have enough insurance?
You may have options through your own policy. Oregon requires uninsured motorist coverage (and many drivers also carry underinsured coverage), which can step in when the at-fault driver can’t fully cover your damages.
We’ll help you sort out what coverage applies and what a fair outcome looks like.
How much does it cost to hire your Eugene car accident lawyers?
Your consultation is free, and you don’t pay attorney fees unless you win.
If you’re dealing with injuries, missed work, and insurance pressure, we can take that weight off your plate.
Client Reviews
Jessica Gallant
2 months ago
Travis and his team went above and beyond when handling my case. They made navigating an overwhelming situation I was unfamiliar with as simple as possible for me. Carrie and the other staff were always quick to respond. They handled all of my questions and concerns putting me at ease during a stressful time. I highly recommend Travis and his team!
Blaine Stokes
2 months ago
Made the process easy will return if I ever need to
jeff fetsch
2 months ago
I had an amazing experience with this firm! Kept me up to date and let me know my options. Never once tried to do anything without my approval. I cant thank them enough! Thank you again!
Mike Pennington
2 months ago
Highly recommend this firm. They were recommended to me and they didn't disappoint. They were very attentive to my case and always answered my questions and kept me updated along the way. I appreciate them fighting for top dollar for my settlement.
Petru Bertea
2 months ago
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the incredible Swanson Lathen Prestwich, PClegal team for their exceptional dedication and expertise.
Their relentless hard work, strategic approach, and unwavering commitment truly paid off in winning a Very Difficult Case.
The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I firmly believe it is well-deserved given the effort and skill they demonstrated throughout.
I am genuinely grateful for their support and professionalism.
Thank you Team of Swanson Lathen Prestwich, PC, for turning what seemed impossible into a victorious reality!
Their relentless hard work, strategic approach, and unwavering commitment truly paid off in winning a Very Difficult Case.
The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I firmly believe it is well-deserved given the effort and skill they demonstrated throughout.
I am genuinely grateful for their support and professionalism.
Thank you Team of Swanson Lathen Prestwich, PC, for turning what seemed impossible into a victorious reality!
Diane Sutton
3 months ago
I had a bad ankle accident where I broke three bones in it that was not my fault. Travis Prestwich and his excellent team supported me in getting a settlement that was much larger than I expected. Since I had never been in this situation before, they did an excellent job of walking me through the entire process. I recommend their services highly!
Kristine Holman
5 months ago
Travis and his team were so kind, compassionate, and took time to explain everything so I understood it well. I would definitely utilize them again and highly recommend!! :)
Vicki Fry
5 months ago
The attorney and staff made me feel impot. They very diligent handling my claim. They had my best interest at heart. They were really amazing. I would use them again and again, and I would refer them to anyone.
V fry
V fry
Yijing Pankratz
7 months ago
Mr. Brian Lathen, my attorney, is a very knowledgeable and professional. His assistant, Allie Clanfield,, is a very kind and caring person. When I was feeling depressed from my car accident, Allie gave me emotional support. They were always responsive to my questions and made sure to update on the case. If you ever need a personal injury attorney, I highly recommend Brian and Allie. They are a trustworthy and effective team.
Caeylee Ramos
9 months ago
I had an excellent experience working with this lawfirm. From the very beginning, Brian and Allie were professional, attentive, and genuinely committed to my case. They were always responsive to my questions and made sure to keep me updated. I would absolutely recommend Brian Lathen and his team to anyone in need of a trustworthy attorney!
Arthur Porter
3 years ago
I was involved in an accident, and was having difficulties dealing with my insurance company.
One of my neighbors recommended me to Brian Lathen, after a very prompt meeting I retained his services.
Durring a long and tiring process, the staff at Swanson Lathen and Prestwich made me feel so much more comfortable, and helped greatly in getting through it.
Along with now having a trusted lawyer/allie to call if anything unexpectedly happens in the future. I feel like I had made a friend.
Thank you.
One of my neighbors recommended me to Brian Lathen, after a very prompt meeting I retained his services.
Durring a long and tiring process, the staff at Swanson Lathen and Prestwich made me feel so much more comfortable, and helped greatly in getting through it.
Along with now having a trusted lawyer/allie to call if anything unexpectedly happens in the future. I feel like I had made a friend.
Thank you.
Mindy Michelle
4 years ago
Swanson Lathen Prestwich is a Godsend!
I was in a terrible car crash, literally caused by another person who admitted fault to the police, to their own insurance, to my insurance and I STILL had to fight for fair compensation. Realizing I needed to get a lawyer involved, an acquaintance recommended Travis Prestwich.
After meeting Mr. Prestwich, I was immediately at ease. He was very knowledgeable, kind, welcoming and realistic. I appreciated that he actually listened to me and provided information that helped me get into the right mind frame. Travis was very patient and kind and responded to questions rather quickly. I appreciated his realistic approach and learned quickly that other lawyers, judges and community members, highly respect him; which was a huge sign that he was the right person for my situation!
His staff, Carrie Meeker and Jennifer Hiser were equally phenomenal during the process! They were also very kind, empathetic, knowledgeable and responded to inquires in a timely manner and were just wonderful to work with. As odd as this sounds, I really enjoyed talking with them and knew that once my case with over with that I would miss all three of them.
When the time came, and I had to go through a settlement hearing, Travis was by my side the whole way through. The unknown always frightens me but he found a way to keep me at ease with his calm demeanor. This review doesn’t even do this trio justice! They are wonderful people and did a phenomenal job on my case.
I pray I never have to go through this process again however if I do, Travis will be the very first person I call. I HIGHLY recommend Swanson Lathen Prestwich and Travis Prestwich, Carrie Meeker and Jennifer Hiser!! I wish there were more people out there like them! I give them an A+++
I was in a terrible car crash, literally caused by another person who admitted fault to the police, to their own insurance, to my insurance and I STILL had to fight for fair compensation. Realizing I needed to get a lawyer involved, an acquaintance recommended Travis Prestwich.
After meeting Mr. Prestwich, I was immediately at ease. He was very knowledgeable, kind, welcoming and realistic. I appreciated that he actually listened to me and provided information that helped me get into the right mind frame. Travis was very patient and kind and responded to questions rather quickly. I appreciated his realistic approach and learned quickly that other lawyers, judges and community members, highly respect him; which was a huge sign that he was the right person for my situation!
His staff, Carrie Meeker and Jennifer Hiser were equally phenomenal during the process! They were also very kind, empathetic, knowledgeable and responded to inquires in a timely manner and were just wonderful to work with. As odd as this sounds, I really enjoyed talking with them and knew that once my case with over with that I would miss all three of them.
When the time came, and I had to go through a settlement hearing, Travis was by my side the whole way through. The unknown always frightens me but he found a way to keep me at ease with his calm demeanor. This review doesn’t even do this trio justice! They are wonderful people and did a phenomenal job on my case.
I pray I never have to go through this process again however if I do, Travis will be the very first person I call. I HIGHLY recommend Swanson Lathen Prestwich and Travis Prestwich, Carrie Meeker and Jennifer Hiser!! I wish there were more people out there like them! I give them an A+++
Molly
4 years ago
Mr. Prestwich and his entire staff were nothing but kind, supportive and professional through the entire process of helping me with my car accident settlement. The outcome was exactly what I had hoped for and it was all because of the hard work that was done by this office.
Captain Morgan
4 years ago
Myself and my family have worked with Keith Swanson since the late 80's.
Unfortunately when an accident occurs you need to make good decisions.
You can't go wrong with Keith.
He's an amazing man. Honest, straight forward and well respected in the industry.
Not to mention one of the best accident attorneys in the profession.
Thank you Keith, and Chris.
Unfortunately when an accident occurs you need to make good decisions.
You can't go wrong with Keith.
He's an amazing man. Honest, straight forward and well respected in the industry.
Not to mention one of the best accident attorneys in the profession.
Thank you Keith, and Chris.
Nathan Cook
8 years ago
Great Services! Helpful reception. Brian Lathen was great and helped a lot.
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We offer free consultations to all prospective clients, and if we take your case on, there is no fee unless we win. Let us know how we can help you!