On September 11th, Portland police officers found a pedestrian killed in the street at around 4:38 a.m. Law enforcement suspects that the individual was in or near a crosswalk on Southeast Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard when they were struck by a vehicle and killed. The responsible vehicle was not found at the scene and fled the scene without reporting to the police. Investigators determined that the accident was a hit-and-run and are currently gathering evidence to find the responsible individual.
As reported by the American Automobile Association (AAA), a study conducted in 2018 reports that an average of 682,000 hit-and-run accidents occurs each year and that 65% of people killed in these accidents are pedestrians or bicyclists. With more people interested in spending time outdoors, there is an increase in pedestrians on the roads. While 2020 studies are still in their preliminary stages, the increase of pedestrians on the road in the last year may show a rise in pedestrian accidents.
Steps to Take after a Hit-and-Run Accident in Portland, Oregon
When an accident occurs, the drivers involved must stay at the scene until both individuals are safe and the individual fulfills all their responsibilities. If a negligent driver does not stop after an accident, the driver can face severe penalties under the Oregon Law.
After a hit-and-run accident, you may feel confused and overwhelmed. However, following the steps below can help stabilize your mind and prevent unfortunate financial losses:
Seek Emergency Medical Care
If you or anyone involved in the accident is harmed and needs immediate medical assistance, it’s critical that you call emergency medical care. Even if you only have minor scrapes and bruises after the accident, you should still make an appointment with a doctor and confirm that there are no hidden injuries.
Call the Police
A hit-and-run accident is a serious offense and requires legal action. Calling the police will let them know you were injured or have property damage due to another person’s carelessness. An officer will also create an accident report which is significant evidence to back up your claim.
Collect Evidence and Document the Accident
After you contact the police and medical assistance, you can take pictures and document the scene of the accident. If you have the opportunity, write down what the car looked like or any information about the other vehicle before taking other information. While they may have fled the scene, the police will conduct a thorough investigation, and any information can assist their search.
Contact a Dependable Lawyer
Sustaining life-threatening injuries in a hit-and-run accident can lead to expensive financial losses. From hospital fees to lost wages, you may incur a significant amount of damage from someone else’s negligence. An experienced and dependable hit-and-run accident lawyer will help advocate for your rights and assist you in recovering compensation for the harm inflicted.
Suffering injuries from a hit-and-run accident is frightening, but having someone who understands the intricate legal process of filing a claim will increase the likelihood of recovering the compensation you deserve.
Contact Experienced Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers at Rizk Law Today
If you suffer severe injuries and damages due to another person’s negligence, you are eligible to recover compensation for medical fees, future treatment, and other financial losses you incurred due to the accident. Rizk Law hit-and-run accident lawyers have years of experience advocating for our client’s rights.
Our many favorable testimonials and positive past results show our clients our dedication to fighting for fair compensation and justice. We strive to provide our clients with accessible communication and dependable legal services, so they can feel confident and prepared for their cases.
Call (503) 245-5677 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.
