Car accidents are sudden, traumatic events that can leave you shaken, injured, and unsure of what to do next. In Portland, where rainy weather, bicycle traffic, and congested streets increase the likelihood of collisions, knowing how to respond is critical. Unfortunately, many people make costly mistakes in the aftermath of an accident—mistakes that can delay or even destroy their chances of receiving fair compensation. If you’ve been involved in a crash, the decisions you make in the minutes, hours, and days that follow are incredibly important. Below are the top mistakes people make after a car accident in Portland—and how you can avoid them with the help of a trusted Portland car accident lawyer.
1. Failing to Call the Police
One of the most common mistakes is not calling law enforcement to the scene. Even if the accident seems minor, you need an official police report to support your insurance claim or potential legal case. This report contains crucial details—like witness accounts and officer observations—that your Portland car accident lawyer can use to build a strong claim.
In Portland, you are required by Oregon law to report accidents involving injuries, death, or property damage over $2,500. Skipping this step can lead to fines, lost evidence, or reduced credibility in your case.
2. Admitting Fault at the Scene
It’s natural to feel shaken and even apologetic after a crash, but uttering phrases like “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” can be used against you later. Oregon follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means any admission can reduce your compensation or eliminate it altogether if you’re found to be more than 50% at fault. Stay calm and limit your conversation with the other party. Focus on gathering information, not assigning blame. Let your Portland car accident lawyer do the talking when it comes to fault and liability.
3. Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
After a crash, adrenaline can mask symptoms. Many people walk away thinking they’re fine, only to experience severe pain hours or days later. Unfortunately, delaying medical treatment can hurt your health and your legal case.
Seeking prompt medical attention creates a record of your injuries, links them to the accident, and strengthens your claim. Your Portland car accident lawyer at The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin will need these records to show how the accident impacted your well-being.
4. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Counsel
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their job is to minimize payouts for their company. They may ask leading questions, record your statements, or pressure you to accept a quick settlement—all of which could jeopardize your case.
Before you talk to any insurance company, speak with an experienced Portland car accident lawyer. At The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin, we deal with insurance adjusters on your behalf to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
5. Not Documenting the Scene Properly
Failing to collect evidence at the accident scene is a mistake many people regret later. If you are physically able, take photos of:
- Vehicle damage
- License plates
- Injuries
- Road conditions
- Traffic signals and signs
- Skid marks or debris
Also, get contact information for witnesses and other involved drivers. Your Portland car accident lawyer can use this documentation to reconstruct the accident and prove liability.
6. Delaying Legal Consultation
Waiting too long to consult a lawyer can be a serious error. In Oregon, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. But waiting that long could mean lost evidence, fading memories, and missed opportunities.
The earlier you involve a Portland car accident lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong case. At The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin, we offer free consultations and immediate case evaluations to help you take the right steps from day one.
7. Accepting a Lowball Settlement
Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that sound good—until you realize they don’t cover long-term medical care, lost income, or future damages. Once you accept a settlement, you generally can’t go back and ask for more.
Before accepting any offer, consult with a Portland car accident lawyer. Our team at McCaslin Law Firm will review the offer and determine whether it’s fair based on the full extent of your damages.
8. Posting About the Accident on Social Media
What you post on Facebook, Instagram, or X (formerly Twitter) after your accident can be used against you. Insurance companies and defense lawyers often monitor claimants’ social media for evidence that contradicts their injury claims.
For example, a post showing you hiking days after a crash could be used to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as stated—even if it was an old photo. To protect your case, stay off social media or set your accounts to private until your claim is resolved.
9. Failing to Keep Detailed Records
Lack of documentation can hinder even the strongest injury claims. It’s essential to keep:
- Medical bills
- Prescription receipts
- Proof of lost wages
- Communication with insurance companies
- Journals documenting your pain and recovery
These records provide tangible proof of your damages and help your Portland car accident lawyer make a compelling case on your behalf.
10. Not Hiring a Specialized Portland Car Accident Lawyer
Not all personal injury lawyers are created equal. Working with a lawyer who lacks experience in Oregon car accident law—or who doesn’t understand the local court system—can be a serious mistake. At The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin, we specialize in representing car accident victims across Portland. With nearly two decades of experience and a deep knowledge of Oregon statutes, attorney J. Clay McCaslin is uniquely qualified to fight for your rights and maximize your recovery.
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Why Choose The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin?
If you’ve made one or more of the mistakes above, it’s not too late—but you need expert help. As a leading Portland car accident lawyer, J. Clay McCaslin offers:
- Personalized representation: You’re not just a case number. We work directly with each client to understand their story.
- Bilingual services: Our office serves clients in English, Spanish, and French.
- Track record of success: From serious injury cases to wrongful death claims, we’ve secured favorable outcomes for countless clients.
- Free consultations: Get answers without any financial risk.
- No upfront fees: We work on a contingency basis. You don’t pay unless we win.
Located in the heart of Portland, we’re easily accessible and deeply committed to helping Oregonians recover after traumatic accidents.
What to Do If You’ve Been in a Portland Car Accident
If you’ve recently been in a car accident, here’s a quick checklist to help you avoid common mistakes:
- Call the police and make sure a report is filed.
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine.
- Document the scene with photos and witness contact info.
- Avoid discussing fault with other drivers.
- Contact a Portland car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
By partnering with The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin, you ensure that you have a powerful advocate on your side.
Final Thoughts
A car accident can change your life in an instant. Unfortunately, the aftermath can be just as overwhelming—especially if you make avoidable mistakes. Whether it’s talking to the wrong people, missing deadlines, or accepting too little, these errors can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. Don’t navigate this process alone. The experienced team at The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin is here to provide expert legal guidance, fight back against insurance companies, and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery with a trusted Portland car accident lawyer on your side.
