Car accidents in Oregon can leave victims facing serious injuries, property damage, and difficult questions about their legal rights. Understanding Oregon car accident laws is essential if you have been involved in a collision. These laws govern reporting requirements, liability, insurance responsibilities, and your ability to seek compensation for damages. Below, our Portland car accident lawyers at Dawson Law Group explain what you need to know about Oregon’s car accident laws and how they may impact your case.
Oregon’s Accident Reporting Requirements
Oregon law requires drivers to report certain collisions to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). According to the Oregon DMV, you must file an Oregon Traffic Collision and Insurance Report within 72 hours if any of the following apply:
- Someone was injured or killed in the accident
- Damage to your vehicle exceeds $2,500
- Damage to any vehicle exceeds $2,500 and a vehicle is towed
- Damage to other property exceeds $2,500
Even if law enforcement files a report, you are still legally obligated to submit your own report. Failing to do so can result in a license suspension. The DMV recommends filing online for speed and security, and you should always keep a copy for your records since the DMV cannot provide one later.
Legal Requirements Under Oregon Statutes
Oregon statutes further clarify when accident reports are necessary. Under ORS 811.720, any accident that causes injury, death, or more than $2,500 in property damage requires a formal report to the Department of Transportation. This responsibility applies to drivers, vehicle owners, and in some cases, vehicle occupants. Additionally, if a vehicle is so damaged that it requires towing, a report must be filed.
It is important to note that the property damage threshold may increase periodically based on inflation adjustments. Certain exceptions apply, such as accidents involving snowmobiles or all-terrain vehicles, or incidents involving law enforcement officials acting in the course of their duties.
Oregon’s Fault and Liability System
Oregon follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20 percent responsible and your damages amount to $100,000, you can still recover $80,000. However, if you are 51 percent or more at fault, you cannot recover compensation.
Because insurance companies often dispute fault in car accident cases, having an experienced Portland car accident lawyer can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and maximizing your recovery.
Insurance Laws in Oregon
Oregon requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage. The minimum requirements are:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury to two or more people
- $20,000 for property damage
- $15,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage
- Uninsured motorist coverage equal to at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
PIP coverage is especially important, as it pays for reasonable and necessary medical expenses for you and your passengers regardless of fault. This coverage can also help with lost wages and essential services if your injuries prevent you from working or performing daily tasks.
Statute of Limitations for Oregon Car Accidents
Oregon law sets strict time limits for filing car accident claims. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For property damage claims, the limit is six years. Failing to file within these deadlines means losing your right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong your case may be.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Oregon
If you are involved in a car accident in Oregon, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary
- Move to safety if possible and exchange information with the other driver
- Gather evidence such as photos, witness names, and accident details
- File the required DMV report within 72 hours if applicable
- Seek medical attention promptly, even for minor injuries
- Contact a qualified Portland car accident lawyer to understand your rights
Taking these steps not only ensures compliance with Oregon law but also strengthens your case should you need to file a claim for compensation.
How Dawson Law Group Can Help
Car accident cases often involve complex legal and insurance issues. At Dawson Law Group, we use decades of experience to help clients navigate Oregon’s car accident laws. We know how insurance companies evaluate claims, and we are prepared to negotiate aggressively or take your case to trial if needed. Whether you are dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or disputes over liability, our attorneys can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
About Dawson Law Group
Founded in 1970, Dawson Law Group has been serving clients across Oregon for more than five decades. Attorneys Bryan Dawson and Ben Larson bring extensive experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants in personal injury and car accident cases. This dual perspective allows them to give clients practical, strategic advice when it matters most. Learn more about the firm’s values and history on the Dawson Law Group Advantage page.