Portland Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Last Updated: November 17, 2025
Dedicated Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Portland, Oregon
Every motorcyclist should know the safety rules that keep them safe on the road. But even the most careful rider can face danger if a car driver acts recklessly. Without protective features like airbags or windshields, motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries or even death. If you’ve been injured in an accident like this, reaching out to a Portland motorcycle accident attorney is essential. Dawson Law Group in Portland understands how overwhelming life can feel after an accident and is here to guide and support you through this tough time.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
In many states, driver’s education isn’t a standard part of public school programs, leaving many motorists underprepared for safe driving. This lack of training often shows in careless behaviors on the road. Drivers may fail to signal turns, get distracted by their phones, change lanes without checking blind spots, or brake suddenly—actions that can lead to serious collisions with motorcycles. Our Portland car accident lawyer has extensive experience dealing with cases involving these types of incidents.
Other common causes include impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs, excessive speeding, or unexpected events like drivers opening car doors into traffic. Motorcycle malfunctions on the road can also play a role in accidents, making safety awareness and proper vehicle maintenance crucial for riders.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Portland
Injuries from motorcycle accidents are often severe and can have life-changing effects. Fractures are a common outcome, with legs and feet being the most frequently injured since they usually take the brunt of the impact during a tip-over. Riders may also skid for significant distances after an accident, making durable protective gear and sturdy footwear essential for safety. Companies like Harley Davidson offer a wide selection of high-quality motorcycle gear designed to help reduce the risk of injury.
Wearing a helmet is not just a legal requirement—it’s a crucial step in protecting against head and neck injuries. Unfortunately, these injuries are all too common and can lead to permanent conditions like brain damage or paralysis, requiring long-term care and rehabilitation. The Dawson Law Group in Portland, Oregon, is here to help determine who is responsible for your accident and fight for compensation that truly meets your needs.
Why Choose Dawson Law Group for Your Accident Claim
Proven Results for Oregon Crash Victims
After a serious accident, you deserve a legal team with a history of real outcomes. Dawson Law Group has spent decades helping Portland crash victims secure meaningful compensation. Our attorneys understand Oregon insurance rules, traffic laws, and the challenges riders and drivers face after life-changing injuries.
With more than one hundred five-star reviews, clients consistently trust us to handle their cases with skill and genuine care. We negotiate with difficult insurance companies, prepare every case with precision, and fight for the full recovery you need to move forward.
No Fees Unless We Win
We believe every injured person should have access to quality representation, regardless of their financial situation. You pay nothing upfront. You owe nothing unless we win your case. This allows you to focus on healing while we handle the legal work.
Trusted by Portland Families
Our reputation comes from the people we have served. Portland families know they can rely on us for steady communication, compassion, and dependable legal guidance. When life feels overwhelming, we bring clarity and support.
More Than $30 Million Recovered
Our results reflect years of focused legal work. We have recovered more than thirty million dollars in verdicts and settlements for people injured across Oregon. Clients from many walks of life, including Oregon judges and trial lawyers, have placed their trust in our firm. See more case results.
Free Consultations
Your first conversation with us is always free. We will listen to your story, explain your rights, and outline your legal options. You will receive clear guidance with no pressure or obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Portland, Oregon
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Portland?
You should first seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel major pain right away (hidden injuries like concussions or internal bleeding are common). Then, it’s important to report the accident to law enforcement, obtain a police report, collect witness information, and document the scene (photos of the bike, road conditions, skid marks). These steps protect your rights and preserve evidence for any future claim.
How is fault determined in a motorcycle accident in Oregon/Portland?
Fault is analyzed by investigating police reports, witness statements, traffic camera or vehicle-data, and sometimes expert reconstruction. Under Oregon’s modified comparative negligence rule, you may still recover compensation even if you share some fault—so long as you were not more than 50% at fault.
Does it matter if I wasn’t wearing a helmet when the accident happened?
Yes, it can matter. You can still file a claim even if you were not wearing a helmet. However, the lack of helmet use may be used by insurers to argue you assumed greater risk or caused your injuries, which may reduce your recoverable amount. Your attorney will assess how helmet non-use affects your specific case.
What kinds of damages or compensation can I seek after a motorcycle crash in Portland?
You may pursue both economic damages (medical bills, future treatment, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, bike repair or replacement) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life). If the other driver’s conduct was egregious (e.g., DUI, reckless speeding) you may explore punitive damages.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Oregon?
In most personal injury cases in Oregon you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. However, there are exceptions (for cases against public entities, minors, or fatality claims) so it’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Get to Know the Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Dawson Law Group
Attorney Bryan Dawson, Principal at Dawson Law Group
Bryan Dawson brings nearly three decades of litigation experience to the firm, where he focuses on serious injury cases, wrongful death claims, and complex civil matters, including serious motorcycle crashes. Throughout his career, he has recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements on behalf of clients across Oregon.
Bryan has handled over 100 trials and arbitrations, argued before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and previously worked at the prestigious law firm Cooley Godward before launching Dawson Law Group in 1999. His practice areas span from personal injury and civil rights to construction defect and patent cases.
Recognized for his excellence in advocacy, Bryan has earned an AV Preeminent rating, a 10.0 score on Avvo, and consistent recognition as a Super Lawyer since 2018. He was also honored with the Marquis Who’s Who Lifetime Achievement Award and frequently serves as a CLE speaker and arbitrator in Oregon courts.
He earned his law degree from UC Berkeley, holds a master’s from the University of Chicago, and a bachelor’s from Claremont McKenna College. Bryan is licensed to practice in Oregon, the U.S. Ninth Circuit, and holds inactive status with the California Bar. Outside the courtroom, Bryan enjoys cycling, coaching youth sports, and staying active with his family in the Portland area.
Attorney Ben Larson
Ben Larson has been representing injured clients with care and commitment since 2009. His thoughtful and collaborative approach helps clients feel informed and supported throughout the legal process, whether they are recovering from a motorcycle accident, a catastrophic injury, or a wrongful death claim.
Known for clear and frequent communication, Ben works closely with each client to build strong cases and pursue optimal outcomes. He excels at early case strategy and negotiation and is well versed in Oregon personal injury law.
Ben earned both his Juris Doctor and undergraduate degree from the University of Oregon. He is admitted to practice in both Oregon state and federal courts. A lifelong Portland resident, Ben enjoys travel, outdoor adventure, and exploring the Pacific Northwest. His hobbies include skiing, climbing, biking, and backcountry camping.
Client Reviews
Below are some of our over 90 five-star reviews:
Brian is the antithesis of every great lawyer joke I've ever heard. A brilliant keen and thorough mind in service of a giving heart and spirit.
As a small contractor we faced 3 years of frivolous legal attacks and stress. A disappointing reward for helping a homeless former tradesman. No fun having the sheriff knocking at the door with a deposition!
Brian calmly and steadily defended every desperate appeal looking to shake both us and the insurance company down.
I recommend him without reservation.
Don
Integrity, compassion, professional and always thinking!
When you need an attorney, you already feel vulnerable but he took such good care of our son. Grateful to have had him on our side.
The case was difficult. Most attorneys, in the category, look for the easy payout cases. Bryan still took this on. He and his wonderful staff, Michelle and Michael, took great care of me until the very end. I appreciate you, Bryan Dawson! You are definitely my hero!
Recent Results for Oregon Crash Victims
$2.5 millionRecovery in a serious car crash case in Lake Oswego. Our client suffered a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures after a high-impact collision.
$1.1 millionSettlement in a trucking collision where our client’s vehicle flipped on a Portland trucking route, causing broken bones and a traumatic brain injury. The trucking company denied responsibility until litigation forced a policy-limit resolution.
$650,250Settlement reached one day before arbitration. Our client was struck by an uninsured speed-racing driver, leading to a traumatic brain injury, tinnitus, and hyperacusis.
$325,000Recovery in a contested liability T-bone collision in the Portland suburbs. The parties disputed who had the light. Our client suffered a broken wrist and injuries to the leg.
See more case results for Portland clients.
Know Your Rights as a Motorcycle Accident Victim
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to understand your rights, especially since car drivers often try to shift the blame onto motorcyclists. Never admit fault at the scene or leave the site of the accident. Instead, call law enforcement right away and make sure a police report is filed. Share details about your injuries and any damage to your motorcycle with the officer.
Next, contact your insurance company and collect important information, including the names of the other driver and any witnesses. When filing a claim, be cautious about accepting the insurance company’s first settlement offer—it’s often lower than what you deserve. The Dawson Law Group in Portland, Oregon, can help handle negotiations with the insurance company to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
Schedule Your Free Legal Consultation with a Portland Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait—schedule a free consultation with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney today. At Dawson Law Group in Portland, Oregon, we’re dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (503) 919-1315 or visit our website to get started with your case.
