Should You Call the Cops for a Fender Bender in Portland, OR?

Car accidents can occur in many different ways, ranging from minor fender benders to major collisions. While many people are unsure whether they should call the police for a minor fender bender, it is important to understand the legal requirements and potential consequences of failing to report an accident.

In Portland, Oregon, most drivers are required by law to contact law enforcement anytime they are involved in an accident. This includes contacting the local police department or state highway patrol, depending on where the accident occurred. Failure to do so can result in serious legal consequences, including hit-and-run charges. 

In order to avoid these consequences and protect a future claim, drivers need to understand why they should call the police following a fender bender,even if they believe the damage is minor and no one was injured.

Legal Requirements After a Car Accident in Portland, OR

Under Oregon law, drivers who are involved in an accident are required to report the collision to law enforcement if it resulted in: 

• Injury or death
• Property damage exceeding $2,500
• Damage to other property
• Damage to a vehicle that requires it to be towed from the accident scene

This means contacting the local police department or state highway patrol to report what happened and provide details about the accident.

Failure to report a collision and perform all required duties under Oregon law can result in legal consequences. For example, a hit and run is a criminal offense that carries a range of penalties, including fines, jail time, and points added to the driver’s license. By calling the police following a fender bender, drivers can ensure that they are complying with the legal requirements and avoiding potential legal consequences.

Insurance Requirements After a Collision in Portland

In addition to the legal requirements, there are also insurance considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether to call the police after a fender bender. Many insurance companies require a police report in order to process a claim for damages, even if the accident was minor and no one was injured. Without a police report, it may be difficult or impossible to obtain compensation for damages to the vehicle or other property, as well as any medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident.

By calling the police and obtaining an accident report, drivers can ensure they have all of the information they need to file an insurance claim and receive compensation for any damages or injuries they sustained.

Potential Injuries Resulting from a Portland Fender Bender

Even a minor fender bender can result in serious injuries, including whiplash, back and neck injuries, brain injuries, and head trauma. In some cases, these injuries may not be immediately apparent, and symptoms may not appear until hours or even days after the accident. 

A record of what happened and any injuries that occurred can be critical in the event that symptoms do arise later on, as it provides documentation that the injuries were caused by the accident. Furthermore, if any injuries are severe, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. In some cases, it may be necessary to call an ambulance or other emergency services in order to get prompt medical treatment.

Contact a Portland Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation After a Fender Bender

Ultimately, it is always best to err on the side of caution and call the police after a fender bender, regardless of how minor the accident may seem. By doing so, drivers can ensure that they are complying with the legal requirements, protecting their insurance coverage, and ensuring that they have a record of any injuries or damages that occurred as a result of the accident.

If you have been involved in a fender bender or other automobile accident in Portland, Oregon, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide guidance and support throughout the process. With the right legal representation, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve for any damages or injuries that occurred as a result of the accident.

If you were injured in an accident in Portland, OR, please contact our Portland car accident lawyers at Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve all throughout Multnomah County in Oregon. Visit our office at:

Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers
101 SW Main St. #1905
Portland, OR, 97204
(503) 773-3333
Hours: Open 24/7