Law Office of Randall J. Wolfe, P.C.

Why should I hire an Oregon-based personal injury firm instead of a national firm?

National 'settlement mills' often lack the deep local knowledge required to navigate Oregon’s unique insurance statutes. As a Lake Oswego-based firm with over 45 years of combined experience, we understand the nuances of the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) and have a proven history in the local court systems. We leverage our reputation to ensure insurance companies treat your claim with the gravity it deserves, rather than as just another number in a database.

How do Oregon’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits work?

Oregon is a 'mandatory PIP' state. Under ORS 742.524 , every auto insurance policy issued in Oregon must include at least $15,000 in PIP benefits. This coverage pays for your reasonable and necessary medical expenses for up to two years after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. We help our clients maximize these benefits—which can also include wage loss and essential services—so they can focus on recovery while we handle the insurance carriers. Learn more about PIP benefits here.

What is the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Oregon?

In most cases, Oregon law provides a two-year window from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit ( ORS 12.110 ). However, there are critical exceptions for claims against government entities (Tort Claim Notices) or wrongful death actions. Waiting too long can permanently bar you from recovery. Our team, led by Managing Partner Charis WolfeBarron, acts quickly to preserve evidence and meet all statutory deadlines. Learn more about the statute of limitations for personal injury in Oregon here.

What if the driver who hit me doesn't have enough insurance?

Many Oregonians carry 'Uninsured' or 'Underinsured' Motorist coverage ( UM/UIM ). If the at-fault driver is uninsured or their policy limits are too low to cover your damages, your own insurance policy steps in to bridge the gap. We specialize in navigating these complex first-party claims to ensure you receive full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How much does it cost to hire The Law Office of Randall J. Wolfe?

We operate on a contingency fee basis , meaning there are no upfront costs or hourly fees for our clients. We only receive a legal fee if we successfully recover a settlement or verdict for you. This allows you to access high-level legal expertise, regardless of your current financial situation following an accident.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for an accident in Lake Oswego?

Yes. Oregon follows a Modified Comparative Negligence rule ( ORS 31.600 ). As long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the incident, you can still recover damages. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000. We work aggressively to minimize any 'fault' attributed to you by insurance adjusters. Click here to learn more about recovering damages if you were partially at fault for an accident.

How Do Insurance Companies Try To Minimize Injury Claims?

After a serious accident, many people expect the insurance process to be straightforward. You file a claim, submit medical bills, and receive compensation for your losses. Unfortunately, this expectation rarely matches reality. Insurance companies are businesses focused on limiting financial exposure, and injury claims directly impact their bottom line. To learn more about how insurance companies try to minimize injury claims, click here.