Oregon Fault Rule
Modified Comparative Negligence (51% Bar): Oregon enforces a 51% modified comparative negligence bar with a 2-year statute of limitations. In addition, Oregon law mandates $15,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) on all personal auto policies.
Statute of Limitations
2 Years (ORS § 31.600 & ORS § 12.110): Claimants must finalize settlement agreements or initiate formal civil actions within 2 years of the collision date.
Statutory Insurance Minimums
25/50/20 ($25k bodily injury / $50k per accident / $20k property damage): These mandatory insurance minimums represent the maximum available coverage under standard policies unless the driver purchased higher optional coverage.
How Fault Apportionment Affects Claims in Oregon
When negotiating auto accident claims in Oregon, insurance adjusters calculate damages using an itemized formula that adds economic losses (medical bills, future treatment, lost earnings, property repair) to non-economic damages (pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life).
Under Oregon Revised Statutes § 31.600, contributory negligence does not bar recovery if the plaintiff's fault was not greater than the combined fault of the defendants (50% or less). If fault exceeds 50%, recovery is completely barred. Oregon drivers also benefit from mandatory $15,000 PIP under ORS § 742.524, which covers medical expenses regardless of collision fault. Understanding this threshold prevents accident victims from being pressured into unfair initial liability splits during adjusters' telephone recorded statements.