There is no stock answer to when a person should hire a lawyer to represent them on their Oregon injury claim, or if they need a lawyer at all. However, here are a few considerations.
If you suffered a serious injury that required an extensive hospital stay, and you are looking at lifelong need for medical care, then you may want to consult with a lawyer sooner than later. An attorney can investigate the case, and determine whether not there any other people or parties that may be responsible for causing your injury. An attorney can also determine whether not you have other options, like an underinsured motorist claim. Finally, an experienced an attorney will properly document not only your past medical expenses and needs, but your future medical care needs.
If you find that you the insurance adjusters being overly aggressive, or is not willing to accept that their insured caused your car wreck, then you may want to speak with a lawyer to see about your options. Many attorneys offer a free consultation, and will provide you at least a basic framework of the issues in your case.
If the insurance company has offer to resolve your case, and you are not certain whether not he offer is “fair,” and may make sense to consult with an attorney to see whether you should accept the offer or move forward with the case.
Our office offers a free book, the Oregon Personal Injury guide. This guide will walk you through all of the major issues and concerns people face with an injury claim in Oregon, and will at least give you a basic idea of where you stand with your case. This is a good option if an insurance adjuster is asking you to sign medical releases, or give a recorded statement. You can also check out our website, which provides helpful articles, blog entries, and answers to the most frequently asked questions. Of course, feel free to call us at 503-325-8600. We have offices in Beaverton and Astoria, and can meet with you personally to discuss your case.
