Facing an Accident with an Uninsured Driver? We’re Here to Help.
In Oregon, the law mandates that all motorists must have liability insurance. But what if the driver responsible for your accident doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough? It’s a daunting scenario that many face, especially with the rising cost of living making it difficult for some to maintain their insurance premiums. Thankfully, there’s a safety net: uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage that you can and should add to your insurance policy. At Youd Law Firm in Lake Oswego, we specialize in navigating these complex cases and ensuring that you’re not left to bear the financial burden alone. If you’ve been hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, let’s discuss how to secure the compensation you deserve.
Oregon’s Insurance Requirements
Oregon law requires motorists to carry minimum insurance to legally register and drive their vehicles. Here’s a breakdown of the required coverage as of 2023:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person, up to $50,000 per accident. This helps cover medical expenses and pain and suffering if you’re at fault.
- Property Damage Liability: $20,000 coverage for damage to another person’s property.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $15,000 for your own medical expenses after an accident, regardless of who was at fault.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: $25,000 per person, up to $50,000 per accident. This is crucial if an uninsured driver hits you.
While these are the minimums, we recommend considering higher coverage to protect against severe injuries and associated costs.
The Reality of Uninsured Motorists in Oregon
Approximately 11% of Oregon drivers are uninsured, a statistic that increases when considering out-of-state drivers from places like California, where the uninsured rate is over 16%. The risk of an uninsured driver causing an accident is not negligible. Your PIP coverage might cover initial costs, but what if it’s not enough?
Maximizing Your Coverage
Underinsured motorist coverage steps in when someone with minimal liability insurance causes you substantial harm. For instance, if your injuries cost more than the other driver’s $25,000 coverage limit, and your underinsured motorist coverage is higher, you can claim the difference. Suppose you have a $100,000 limit; you could potentially claim up to $75,000 to cover your injuries.
IT'S FREE TO
ASK LANCE
Our clients say it best
At Youd Law, we pride ourselves in offering unmatched service. Lance and his staff are responsive and respectful, providing efficient, expert assistance in a kind and courteous manner.