Rules on Fault Allocation and Filing Deadlines
Oregon uses a modified comparative negligence system under Oregon Revised Statutes § 31.600, which means an injured person may recover damages if they were not more than 50% at fault for the crash. However, the recovery is reduced by that person’s percentage of fault. For example, if a motorcyclist is found 40% at fault by a jury, their awarded compensation would be reduced by 40%. A motorcycle crash lawyer can help someone in Bend address arguments about shared fault before they reduce the value of a claim.
Oregon also has a statute of limitations that usually gives injured people two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit (ORS § 12.110). Missing that deadline can prevent recovery in nearly all cases. Some situations may involve different notice requirements or exceptions, so it is important to contact our attorneys as soon as possible.
Compensation Available After A Motorcycle Crash
A motorcycle injury claim may include more than the cost of emergency care. Depending on the facts, compensation can include medical expenses, follow-up treatment, lost income, reduced earning capacity, property damage, and pain and suffering. In fatal crashes, surviving family members may also have grounds to bring a wrongful death claim. Our Bend lawyers can identify the categories of damages that fit the facts of your motorcycle injury case.
We also look at how the injury affects day-to-day life. A rider may be unable to return to the same job, keep up with household responsibilities, or enjoy activities that once mattered. Those losses also deserve careful attention during settlement discussions or litigation.
