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Experienced on Both Sides of Courtroom
We believe that seeing both sides of cases helps us achieve better results for our clients.
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A Track Record of Excellent Results
Excellent results in high-stake cases: We have recovered over $5 million in verdicts & settlements since 2019.
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Speak Directly With an Attorney Today
You will talk directly to Ben or Bryan when you call us or have questions.
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We Know Insurance
Company Tactics
For decades we have been hired by insurers, so we know what factors help injured parties achieve the best recovery.
PortlandPersonal Injury Attorney
Dawson Law Group: Your Trusted Personal Injury Advocates in Portland, Oregon
When an unexpected crash, slip, or catastrophic accident upends your life, finding the right legal representation is the most critical decision you can make. At Dawson Law Group, we understand the physical pain, emotional exhaustion, and financial anxiety that follow a serious injury. You are likely dealing with mounting medical bills, time away from work, and aggressive insurance adjusters trying to settle your claim for far less than it is worth. When you need a skilled Portland personal injury attorney, our dedicated legal team steps in to protect your rights, shoulder the stress, and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Since 1999, our firm has served injury victims and grieving families across the Portland metropolitan area and surrounding Oregon communities. Led by principal attorney Bryan Dawson and partner Ben Larson, we have recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. We do not operate as a high-volume settlement factory where your file is passed down to paralegals or junior associates. When you choose us, you speak directly with experienced trial lawyers who treat your recovery as their personal mission.
Why Experience on Both Sides of the Courtroom Gives You an Advantage
What sets our practice apart from almost every other law firm in Oregon is our deep, firsthand knowledge of insurance company strategy. For decades, our attorneys have been hired by major insurance carriers to handle defense litigation. We know exactly how insurance adjusters evaluate claims, what internal software metrics they use to calculate settlement offers, and what tactics they deploy to deny or diminish valid claims.
By bringing this defense-side insider perspective to your personal injury claim, we anticipate the insurance company’s moves before they make them. We know how to format your evidence, present medical documentation, and structure legal arguments in a way that forces insurers to take your case seriously. If they refuse to offer a fair settlement during negotiations, our extensive trial experience provides immediate leverage in court. Insurers in Oregon know that we do not back down from taking complex cases to trial or arbitration.
Understanding Personal Injury Claims Under Oregon Law
Navigating an injury claim requires a thorough understanding of Oregon statutes and local court procedures. Unlike generic national advice, local legal nuances can make or break your ability to recover financial compensation. Here are key legal frameworks we navigate on your behalf:
Oregon Modified Comparative Fault Standard (ORS 31.600)
In Oregon, you can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50 percent at fault for the incident. Under Oregon Revised Statute 31.600, your compensation is reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. For example, if a jury determines your total damages are $100,000 but finds you 20 percent responsible for a collision on Interstate 5, your recovery is reduced by 20 percent to $80,000. If you are found to be 51 percent or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any damages. Insurance companies frequently try to shift partial blame onto victims to drop their liability below this threshold. We thoroughly gather physical evidence, obtain surveillance footage, and consult accident reconstruction experts to guard against unfair fault assignments.
Oregon Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage
Oregon law requires motor vehicle insurance policies to include Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Under ORS 742.520, PIP is a mandatory no-fault benefit that covers medical costs up to $15,000 and a portion of lost wages for up to two years following an auto accident, regardless of who caused the crash. This coverage provides crucial immediate financial relief while your liability claim against the fault party is developed. We help our clients properly set up PIP claims to ensure medical bills are paid promptly without unnecessary delays.
Statute of Limitations (ORS 12.110)
Time is always of the essence in a personal injury case. In Oregon, the general statute of limitations for personal injury actions under ORS 12.110 is two years from the date the injury occurred. Missing this strict deadline forever bars you from seeking financial recovery through the court system. Furthermore, if your injury involves a city, county, or state government entity (such as a collision with a TriMet bus or a road maintenance vehicle), you must file a formal Oregon Tort Claims Act notice within 180 days of the incident. When you retain a Portland personal injury attorney from our office, we immediately handle all mandatory notices and filing deadlines to preserve your rights.
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Settlement received by Dawson Law Group
“The state will pay … the largest settlement in Department of Corrections history … The settlement amount is unprecedented.”
The Oregonian, October 14, 2020
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Over $30 Million Recovered For Our Clients
$3m
Wrongful Death
Total settlement ($2.75m from State) in wrongful death and civil rights case
$2.5m
Personal Injury
Recovered for a client in a disputed auto accident, including underinsured motorist benefits
$2.3m
Truck Accident
Recovered for a client injured in a disputed-liability trucking accident involving a jack-knifed semi truck
$1.46m
Car Accident
Recovered for a client in a collision involving a commercial truck and a passenger vehicle
$1.3m
Personal Injury
Auto accident versus a drunk driver, bar served a visibly intoxicated patron
$650k
Personal Injury
Settlement in JM v. State Farm one day prior to arbitration (top offer $9,500 prior to retention)
$210k
Personal Injury
Settlement of underinsured motorist claim, auto hitting pedestrian
Meet
the Lawyers
Principal Attorney Bryan Dawson—an AV-Rated Super Lawyer with nearly
30 years of courtroom experience—has successfully resolved hundreds of personal injury cases, securing millions for clients throughout Oregon. His reputation gives your case immediate credibility and leverage with insurance companies and opposing counsel.
Alongside him, Ben Larson, an Oregon native practicing since 2009, is known for his creative strategies and clear, compassionate communication with clients. Together, they combine decades of trial experience with a forward-thinking approach to guide clients through everything from serious injury and wrongful death claims to slip-and-fall and everyday accident cases.
When you choose Dawson Law Group for your Portland personal injury case, you get a dedicated team with a track record of results—and the personal attention and care you deserve every step of the way.
Meet Our Attorneys Bryan Dawson & Ben Larson
Bryan Dawson - Principal Attorney
As the Principal Attorney at Dawson Law Group, Bryan Dawson brings nearly three decades of courtroom experience to every case. He's widely recognized for his expertise in personal injury, wrongful death, and complex litigation, consistently securing substantial settlements and verdicts for clients throughout Oregon. Bryan's dedication to open communication and unwavering client support truly sets him apart as a leading advocate for individuals and businesses.
- Areas of Focus: Bryan specializes in complex litigation, severe injury cases, wrongful death, personal injury, civil rights, employment disputes, construction defects, and patent issues.
- Legal Background: With over 100 cases taken through trial or arbitration and multiple appearances before the Federal Ninth Circuit, Bryan has led Dawson Law Group since 1999. He previously practiced at Cooley Godward in California.
- Professional Achievements: Recognized as a Super Lawyer (2018–2025), honored with an AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, and awarded a 10/10 Avvo Rating. He also received the 2018 Marquis Who’s Who Lifetime Achievement Award and frequently serves as a court-appointed arbitrator and CLE instructor.
- Portland Community Involvement: Dawson supports the growth of Oregon’s legal community by mentoring new attorneys, teaching continuing legal education (CLE) courses, and coaching high school mock trial teams.
- Academic Credentials: He earned his J.D. from UC Berkeley School of Law, an M.A. from the University of Chicago, and a B.A. from Claremont McKenna College.
- Professional Associations: Bryan is an active member of the Oregon State Bar, U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Oregon Association of Defense Counsel. He is also an inactive member of the State Bar of California.
- About Bryan: A Portland native, Bryan is deeply committed to mentoring youth. In his free time, he enjoys the outdoors, spending quality time with his family, and actively engaging with the Lake Oswego community. He's often seen biking to the office year-round.
Ben Larson
Since joining Dawson Law Group in 2009, Ben Larson has been instrumental in delivering innovative legal solutions in personal injury and wrongful death law. Ben is particularly known for building strong client relationships and for his transparent, attentive communication throughout every stage of litigation. He's genuinely passionate about achieving the best possible results for each client he represents.
- Specializations: Ben provides comprehensive representation in injury and wrongful death claims for both plaintiffs and defendants. He's highly skilled in negotiating settlements and expertly managing complex case development.
- Education: Ben earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Oregon School of Law and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Oregon. He is admitted to practice in both Oregon state and federal courts.
- Client Service: Clients consistently commend Ben for his clear, timely updates and his creative approaches to legal strategy, ensuring they are always informed and empowered throughout the legal process.
- Personal Interests: A proud native of Portland, Ben enjoys global travel, backcountry skiing, cycling, camping, and climbing. His studies abroad in Israel and Spain continue to inspire his adventurous outlook and deep appreciation for Oregon’s natural beauty.
Awards & Memberships
Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Accidents in Portland
How do I pay my medical bills while waiting for a personal injury settlement in Oregon?
In Oregon, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is the primary payer for medical bills, regardless of who was at fault. By law, Oregon auto policies include a minimum of $15,000 in PIP benefits. If your bills exceed this limit, your health insurance or medical liens are used until your final settlement is reached. Learn more here.
Can a personal injury lawyer help me get my car fixed, or just handle my medical claim?
Most Oregon injury lawyers provide property damage assistance as a courtesy to their injury clients. While the focus of a lawsuit is on bodily injury, an attorney can help you negotiate with the insurance adjuster to ensure your vehicle is repaired at a shop of your choice or fairly valued in a total loss claim. Learn more here.
What is an “ORS 20.080” claim and how does it help with small car accident cases?
ORS 20.080 is an Oregon statute designed for claims under $10,000. It allows injury victims to demand a settlement; if the insurance company refuses and you win even one dollar more at trial, the insurer must pay your entire attorney fee bill. This prevents insurers from "lowballing" victims with minor injuries. Learn more here.
How long do I have to file a claim if I was hit by a TriMet bus or a city vehicle?
While the general statute of limitations is two years, accidents involving public bodies like TriMet or the City of Portland require a formal Tort Claim Notice to be filed within 180 days. Failure to meet this strict six-month deadline can result in the permanent loss of your right to seek compensation. Read More Here.
Why is the insurance adjuster asking for a recorded statement, and should I give one?
You are not legally required to give a recorded statement to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Adjusters often use these recordings to "lock in" your story before the full extent of your injuries is known. It is always safer to have your attorney provide the necessary facts to the insurer on your behalf. Read more here.
Can I sue an insurance company for “Bad Faith” in Oregon if they refuse to pay my claim?
Yes. Following the landmark Moody v. Oregon Community Credit Union decision, Oregonians can sue their own insurance companies for "Bad Faith" under ORS 746.230. If an insurer unreasonably delays or denies a valid claim, you may be entitled to damages for emotional distress and financial hardship beyond the policy limits. Read more here.
What happens if I’m hit by a driver who has no insurance or is underinsured in Portland?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you file a claim under your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. In Oregon, UM coverage is mandatory. Your own insurance company essentially "steps into the shoes" of the at-fault driver to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering up to your policy limits. Read more here.
How do I prove a “Mild Traumatic Brain Injury” (mTBI) if my MRI and CT scans are normal?
Standard MRIs and CT scans only detect structural damage; they often miss the cellular-level disruption caused by an mTBI. We prove these injuries through neuropsychological testing, testimony from "before-and-after" witnesses, and specialized imaging like DTI (Diffusion Tensor Imaging). Read More.
Have more questions? Contact us for a free consultation with a trusted Portland personal injury lawyer.
Our Law Firm's Unique Approach
Why Choose Dawson Law Group?
What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Portland
The steps you take in the hours and days following an injury significantly impact the outcome of your insurance claim or lawsuit. We recommend keeping this checklist in mind if you are involved in an incident:
- Report the Incident Immediately: For auto collisions, call 911 so local police or the Multnomah County Sheriff can write an official accident report. For slip and falls, report the hazard to property management and ensure a written incident report is created before you leave.
- Seek Prompt Medical Attention: Adrenaline can mask severe injuries like concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage. Visit an emergency room, urgent care clinic, or your primary care doctor immediately. Consistent medical documentation directly links your injuries to the accident.
- Document the Scene and Evidence: Take high-resolution photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, uneven pavement, weather factors, and any visible physical injuries. Collect contact details and statements from eyewitnesses.
- Avoid Recorded Statements with Insurance Adjusters: Insurance adjusters may call you soon after the accident asking for a recorded statement. Do not provide a statement or sign any medical releases without consulting legal counsel. Statements can easily be misinterpreted or used against you later.
- Maintain an Injury Journal and Expense Log: Keep a dedicated log of your daily physical pain levels, missed work shifts, travel expenses to doctor appointments, and activities you are no longer able to enjoy.
Practice Areas We Handle Across the Portland Metro Area
Our trial attorneys offer comprehensive legal representation across a broad spectrum of personal injury and wrongful death matters. We tailor our strategy to the specific facts and technical details of each case type:
- Car Accidents: From high-speed crashes on I-205 and US-26 to dangerous intersections throughout downtown Portland, our Portland car accident lawyers hold distracted, reckless, and impaired drivers accountable.
- Commercial Truck Accidents: Accidents involving heavy semi-trucks, freight haulers, and commercial delivery vehicles involve complex federal motor carrier safety regulations. We investigate driver logbooks, black box electronic data, and fleet maintenance records.
- Bicycle and Pedestrian Injuries: As an active cycling community, Portland roads see significant bicycle and foot traffic. We advocate fiercely for vulnerable road users injured by negligent motorists opening car doors or making unsafe turns.
- Motorcycle Accidents: Riders face severe bias from insurance companies. We ensure your rights are protected and focus on securing full compensation for severe road rash, fractures, and traumatic injuries.
- Slip and Fall / Premises Liability: Property owners and business operators have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe. We represent individuals hurt by slick floors, hidden steps, inadequate lighting, or ice accumulation.
- Wrongful Death & Civil Rights: When negligence or misconduct results in the ultimate tragedy, we stand beside grieving families to hold the responsible parties fully accountable under Oregon law.
How We Calculate the Value of Your Injury Claim
No two injuries affect a person in the exact same way. During your initial case review, a Portland personal injury attorney at Dawson Law Group will assess both economic and non-economic damages to build a complete picture of your losses:
What to Expect When Working with Dawson Law Group
We pride ourselves on transparent, hands-on legal counsel. Here is what your journey looks like when you partner with us:
- Free Initial Consultation: We review the facts of your case, answer your questions, explain applicable Oregon laws, and outline your legal options with zero obligation.
- Thorough Investigation: We collect crash reports, secure video footage, interview witnesses, analyze medical records, and preserve physical evidence before it disappears.
- Complete Claim Handling: We handle all communications with insurance companies, medical providers, and opposing counsel so you can concentrate fully on healing.
- Strategic Settlement Negotiations: We draft a detailed demand package that articulates liability and quantifies your full financial losses to negotiate a top-dollar settlement.
- Litigation and Trial Preparation: If the insurance carrier refuses a fair settlement offer, we file a formal complaint in court and present your case before a jury or arbitrator.
No Upfront Costs: Our Contingency Fee Representation
We firmly believe that access to experienced legal representation should never depend on your financial situation. Our firm operates strictly on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay zero upfront costs or out-of-pocket legal fees to retain our services. We advance all initial litigation expenses, court filing fees, and expert witness costs required to build your case.
Our legal fees are paid as an agreed-upon percentage of the final settlement or court verdict we secure for you. If we do not win your case or obtain a monetary recovery on your behalf, you owe us nothing for our legal services. This model aligns our success directly with yours and gives you total peace of mind throughout the legal process.
Contact an Experienced Portland Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence in Portland, West Linn, or the surrounding Oregon communities, do not navigate the legal and insurance process alone. Let our experienced attorneys take on the burden so you can focus on your health and your family.
Contact Dawson Law Group today to schedule your free, confidential consultation. Call our offices directly or fill out our online contact form to speak directly with an attorney who will fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
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Talk to a Portland Personal Injury Attorney Today
Whether your injury resulted from a car crash, a fall, or medical negligence, our team is here to provide compassionate, knowledgeable legal support. Call us at (503) 656-0400 or request a free consultation online today.