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Portland Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Portland Bicycle Accident LawyerWere you hurt in a bicycle accident due to the careless acts of another in Portland, OR? If so, you might be able entitled to recover damages. You’ll have the best chance of securing a favorable outcome if you enlist the help of an experienced Portland bicycle accident lawyer at Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers. Call (503) 272-8986 for legal help.

However, obtaining fair compensation in a personal injury claim is often easier said than done. Our legal team has nearly 20 years of experience helping victims of Portland motorcycle accidents, car accidents, Portland truck accident injuries, slip and fall cases, brain injuries navigate insurance and personal injury laws – and we’ve recovered millions in the process.

We’re prepared to get you the compensation you deserve after a bike crash in Portland, OR. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your accident, so call our law firm or connect with us online to schedule yours.

How Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Bicycle Accident in Portland, OR

How Tillmann Law Can Help After a Bicycle Accident in Portland, OR 

Portland has over 400 miles of bikeways, making it a great place to ride a bicycle and avoid traffic congestion. However, although Portland is considered a bicycle-friendly city, accidents still occur.

If you were injured in a bike accident, Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help you get back on your feet financially. We understand that it’s a difficult time. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis – meaning there are no upfront fees to get exceptional legal representation, and you only pay if we win your case.

Hiring a Portland bicycle accident attorney from Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers means you’ll have a legal advocate to:

  • Investigate the bike accident and gather evidence proving negligence and liability
  • Handle every aspect of your case and maintain open lines of communication
  • Calculate the accurate value of your losses, including future healthcare costs
  • Negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf
  • Litigate the matter and represent you at trial in Multnomah County if necessary

Do you want to learn more about how a Portland personal injury lawyer can help after a bicycle crash? Contact our law office for a free consultation to discuss the benefits of an attorney-client relationship.

How Common Are Bicycle Accidents in Portland?

The League of American Bicyclists ranks Oregon as the second-most bicycle-friendly state in the country. However, that doesn’t mean accidents don’t occur in the Beaver State.

According to an April 2022 report released by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), there were 475 statewide bicycle (pedalcycle) crashes in 2020. Out of the reported accidents, 14 were fatal.

Nearly 18% of the state’s bicycle accidents occurred in Portland. A reported 85 pedalcycle accidents in the city caused five fatalities.

What Causes Most Bicycle Crashes in Portland, OR?

ODOT reports that the primary cause of bicycle crashes throughout the state is failing to yield the right of way. That includes drivers failing to yield to bicyclists and bicyclists failing to yield to vehicles.

Other than failure to yield the right of way, causes of Oregon bicycle accidents include:

  • Distracted driving or riding
  • Tired drivers or cyclists
  • Failure to maintain lane
  • Poor visibility
  • Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
  • Disregarding traffic signals and signs
  • Improper or unsafe passing, turns, or lane changes
  • Reckless or careless driving
  • Following too closely
  • Falling from the bicycle
  • Riding or driving under the influence
  • Dooring
  • Lack of dedicated bike lanes
  • Inadequate brakes
  • Defective tires or mechanical components

Most bike crashes happen due to driver or cyclist negligence – meaning they are typically avoidable if people use reasonable care. However, others may be caused by defective parts, poor infrastructure, or road debris.

Regardless of what caused your bicycle accident, Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers will help you prove your case.

How Much Money Can I Get in a Portland Bicycle Accident Claim?

Every bicycle accident presents a different set of facts, victims, and injuries. Accordingly, the value of your claim will depend on various factors, such as:

  • The extent of your injuries and whether they will cause permanent impairment or disability
  • The medical costs you’ve incurred
  • Future healthcare needs, such as pain management or physical therapy
  • The amount of time you missed from work
  • Whether you can return to your job in the same capacity
  • The pain, suffering, and emotional trauma you’ve endured
  • Whether you contributed to the cause of the bike accident
  • Whether insurance covers the accident, and if so, the policy limits
  • The parties involved in the case

Generally, the more severe your bicycle accident injuries, the higher your case’s value will be. However, as you can see, other factors may come into play. During your free case assessment, we’ll discuss your accident. Then, we can give you a better idea of what your personal injury or insurance claim may be worth.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Bicycle Accident in Portland, Oregon?

If you were injured in a bicycle crash in Portland, OR, you can generally pursue the full value of your losses, including monetary (economic) and personal (non-economic) damages.

You usually have receipts, bills, and statements available to prove the value of your economic damages, which may include:

  • Medical expenses, including hospitalization, treatment, and future healthcare requirements
  • Lost wages and job benefits
  • Diminished earning potential
  • Out-of-pocket expenses
  • Property damage (e.g., bicycle repair or replacement)

Non-economic damages aren’t as straightforward to calculate. They could include:

  • Mental anguish
  • Pain and suffering
  • A reduction in your quality of life
  • Inconvenience
  • Loss of care or companionship

Oregon courts award punitive damages in rare cases when the plaintiff proves by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted maliciously or consciously indifferent to their safety. If, for example, a drunk driver ran into your bicycle and caused severe injuries, punitive damages may be an option to pursue.

Common Injuries Sustained in Bicycle Accidents

Bicyclists often suffer severe injuries in collisions with motor vehicles. They have little protection if struck by a multi-thousand-pound machine.

Some injuries commonly sustained by cyclists in accidents include:

  • Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions and contusions
  • Back injuries
  • Neck injuries, such as whiplash
  • Facial injuries, such as dental and eye injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Road rash and burns
  • Lacerations, cuts, and bruises
  • Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains
  • Fractured and broken bones
  • Internal organ damage, such as a ruptured spleen
  • Loss of limbs and amputation
  • Other catastrophic injuries

No matter what type of injury you suffered, a Portland bike accident lawyer at Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers is here to assist.

How Do I Prove Negligence After a Bicycle Accident in Oregon?

To prove negligence in a Portland bicycle accident case, you have the burden of proving the following four elements:

  • The defendant owed you a duty of care. Drivers and others sharing the road must exercise reasonable caution to avoid hurting other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
  • The defendant breached their duty of care by failing to act as a reasonable person would under the circumstances. For example, driving while distracted or failing to follow traffic regulations is a breach of duty.
  • The defendant’s breach directly caused the bicycle accident.
  • You sustained damages as a result of the defendant’s actions.

Proving these elements will require evidence, including:

  • Traffic accident report
  • Photos, surveillance, and videos of the accident scene
  • Physical evidence from the accident, such as your damaged bicycle, helmet, or gear
  • Medical records
  • Employment records
  • Eyewitness statements
  • Expert witness opinions

We’ll help you identify and gather the evidence needed to prove your bicycle accident claim.

Can I Still Recover Compensation If I’m Blamed for My Bicycle Accident in Portland?

The answer to this question depends on your portion of responsibility for the bike accident. Oregon law implements a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar to compensation.

You cannot recover any money if your allocated fault exceeds 50%. If your level of blame is 50% or less, you can receive compensation, but it’ll be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, you were looking at your phone when a driver ran a stop sign and hit your bicycle. You’re assigned 30% fault for the accident, meaning you can only take home 70% of your awarded compensation. If you were found to be 51% at fault, you’d be entitled to nothing.

Unfortunately, insurance companies are familiar with Oregon’s comparative fault rules and frequently use them to minimize or avoid liability. If you’ve been blamed for causing your bicycle crash, you’ll need an experienced legal advocate to fight back and protect your rights.

How Long Do I Have To File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in Oregon?

As a bicycle accident victim in Oregon, you generally have two years from the crash date to file a personal injury lawsuit and three years to file a claim for wrongful death.

Keep in mind that there could be exceptions to these statutes of limitations that give you less time to act. It’s essential to consult an experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Portland as soon as possible. You want to meet the statutory deadline and gather the evidence you need while it’s available.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Portland Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers

If you were hurt as a result of a bicycle accident in Portland, OR, contact Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers for immediate assistance. We want to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve for your financial losses and suffering. The best way to maximize your payout is to get started as soon as possible after your accident.

Contact our Portland bicycle accident lawyer for a free, no-obligation case assessment. We’ll have a discussion and explore your potential legal options for recovery.

Our personal injury law firm in Portland, OR also provides:

Justin Vieth
Justin Vieth
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Shimmeri Selph
Shimmeri Selph
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Don't waste your time.
Alan Rogers
Alan Rogers
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Thanks Aaron, we truly appreciate everything you have done for us.I know that I was a handful early on, but you handled it with a deft touch and ultimately proved yourself to be a great advocate for our family none the less.Thanks so much Bud!You have my eternal respect and gratitude.
Tim Cheredayko
Tim Cheredayko
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Tillmann helped me out a lot! Going over ever detail with the case from both sides and always informing me what is going to happen through out the case. Definitely recommend Tillmann Law!
A B
A B
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Rude. Classist. The receptionist needs some manners. Actually hung up when told was a low income family.
Justin W
Justin W
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I had the pleasure of working with Aaron and his team over the course of the last year. They were very professional and responsive. Dealing with injuries can be dreadful, but Aaron made it as painless as possible. I highly recommend.
Bonnie Thorn
Bonnie Thorn
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Aaron Tillmann and his entire staff were professional, empathetic and very knowledgeable. They assisted our family at a time when we were grieving the loss of our son with compassion and respect.
Tina Rutledge
Tina Rutledge
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Arisbet Bustos
Arisbet Bustos
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I am very grateful and pleased with the services of Lawyer Aaron and his team work, especially Julia, who was always attentive to my concerns and resolved my doubts with a good attitude and empathy, and best of all, she speaks Spanish. Thank you so much!!!
Ken Pollett
Ken Pollett
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I was involved in a serious auto accident. Not that there is a good time to be in any accident, it just happened to be 2020. Tillman Law and support staff kept me in the loop as the court system was disarray with all the Covid issues. The staff was very professional and courteous. In a nutshell, they took care of me.
Jordan Bedrick
Jordan Bedrick
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My husband was in a bad car accident a few years back, and he was stopped due to traffic. He was behind a fuel truck, and someone rear-ended him, going 60mph. The worst part was our 6 mo old was in our and the truck was totaled beyond repair and my husbands back injured severly he ended up with 2 broken vertebrae. Our child had ptsd any time getting into a vehicle after that. Tillman made this right even though we couldn't do much for our son other comfort him and make car rides more comfortable from there on out Tillman was able to get my husband the money he deserved after the other driver was extremely negligent and either not paying attention or on his phone or something unfortunately this was during covid and when the police came they didnt do a single thing to check for any of that. We can't say enough good things about Aaron Tillman he gave us our hope back and the ability to have back surgery to repair a lot of his back issues due to the car wreck. So if you have been in an accident definitely call Tillman Law they're amazing super professional, kind and empathetic beings who will work for the best possible outcome for your case and fight they won't just roll over and play dead they spent about 2.5 years on my husbands case never giving up. He was always super honest with my husband and always communicated everything. So again, thank you, Aaron Tillman, and thank you to your law firm for working so tirelessly. We appreciate it more than you know.
Cassie Kocker
Cassie Kocker
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Aaron is great. He is professional and personable which makes you feel cared about during the process. He will provide advice and resources so that the process is smooth and renders positive results. I highly recommend!
Michael Darling (Mike Rich)
Michael Darling (Mike Rich)
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Still working with them to this day! Great firm great people. Much recommend
Brittany Sloan
Brittany Sloan
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I can’t recommend Tillman Law enough. We were in a sticky situation from a car accident in December and my partner was out of work for over a month. Aaron told us we may not be able to get those lost wages, but he would definitely try to fight the insurance for them and even then we might not see the money for a long time. It’s only been 3 1/2 months since the accident and we just got our lost funds today. Tillman Law was quick, efficient, and made this entire situation much less painful. I appreciate everything they’ve done for us.
Hazel Ault
Hazel Ault
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Jennifer nelson
Jennifer nelson
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Great experience
Oksana Pavlenko
Oksana Pavlenko
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Really pleased with my experience at Tillmann Law. Mr. Tillmann and his team were on top of my case, worked hard to answer any questions I had and finished my case in a timely manner. I was really happy with the outcome . Thank you!
Robert Swanson
Robert Swanson
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Tucker Earp
Tucker Earp
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Linette Figueroa
Linette Figueroa
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Mr. Tillman took care of my care seamlessly! He immediately hopped on my case immediately and guided me through the entire process. His team is professional, organized and well-resourced! He even went back to ensure the settlement was beyond fair. If you want someone who will fight tooth and nail on your behalf- Mr. Tillman is your lawyer!
Robert Aley
Robert Aley
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I am so happy to promote Aaron and his team. They did such an amazing job handling my case. Call them if you need service. I called him when I first needed help with my accident and he called me back within five minutes. This team is so great! I am so happy to have worked with them.
Teresa Ochoa
Teresa Ochoa
1633214433
Mr. Tillmann and his paralegal Jason were fantastic to work with! They were always available to answer my questions in a timely manner and delivered a very good outcome after I was rear ended. I would recommend their services to anyone.
Roro Roro
Roro Roro
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Amazing team at the Tillman Law, LLC . His work speaks for it self. Thank you for being professional and above all understanding to different people. God bless everyone that works there .
Mercury Nightstone
Mercury Nightstone
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Aaron and his staff, especially Jason, were all extremely courteous, timely, and professional. Highly recommend, truly appreciate your hard work!
Danielle Martin
Danielle Martin
1627923620
The Tillman Law Firm is amazing! I have been very pleased with everyone that I came in contact with concerning my case. They filed the case against the insurance company and fought hard in litigation to get what rightfully was taken from me. I would highly recommend them, they are the best in the Portland metro area!
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