Educate Yourself Before You Hire an Oregon Personal Injury Lawyer

Bicyclist Brandon Dahren Hit by SUV on His Way to Work | Hit and Run

Date: May 4, 2009
Location: Intersection of NE 21st and NE Columbia
Names: Brandon Dahren
Type: Automobile vs Bicycle - Hit and Run
Ourcome: Serious Injuries

Brandon Dahren was the victim of a hit and run accident while riding his bicycle in northeast Portland.  He was riding his bike through the intersection of Northeast 21st St and Columbia Boulevard when an SUV slammed into his front wheel.  Dahren was placed in intensive care at Legacy Emanuel Hospital with a broken nose and missing teeth after his handlebars spun around and he struck the passenger’s side mirror.  He managed to stumble the half-block to his work, where they called for an ambulance, according to KPTV.

The worst part of the accident is that the driver of the SUV- a green or teal 90’s Ford Explorer- never stopped or asked if Dahren was alright, thereby earning himself a place on Fox 12's most wanted.  Fortunately, Brandon Dahren is expected to make a full recovery. The Portland police are still searching for the driver of the vehicle.

 Portland intersections can be a dangerous place for bicyclists despite their heavy volume.  There were 700 accidents involving bicycles from 2003-2006, and there were two fatalities in October alone.

Our hearts go out to Mr. Dahren and his family.  We can only imagine how awful it is to know that someone caused an injury like this and then did not even have the human decency to stick around and call for help, let alone take responsibility for his actions.

Right now Brandon Dahren’s focus needs to be on healing.  We  hope that the driver is identified, and made to feel the effects of the law. 

Branden Dahren and his family should also know, though, that if the the driver is never found, they still have legal options.  The best Portland personal injury attorneys will know how to use Uninsured Motorist Coverage to compensate Mr. Dahren for his injuries.

Important questions to consider when hiring a lawyer:
Does the lawyer understand how to help me pay my medical bills after an accident?
What about testimonials?
What kind of time limits are involved?
What if I have a smaller case?
Are there any hard rules to follow when looking for a great personal injury lawyer?