EDUCATION
ADVOCACY
&LITIGATION
Dedicated to making the roads safer
for Oregon pedestrians.
In 2018 I wrote a free book to explain, in plain language, Oregon’s pedestrian laws. This book includes a quick reference guide to the laws, the actual language of the laws, frequently asked questions about how insurance works, and information on what to do if you are involved in a collision.
CHARLEY GEE
Oregon pedestrian attorney and advocate
Being a pedestrian is an integral part of every Oregonian’s life. I have built my reputation representing injured pedestrians in Oregon and Washington, advocating for safer streets and sidewalks, and educating the area’s walkers, runners, and wheelchair users about their rights. Protecting the vulnerable users of Oregon’s roads from harm, or advocating for them when the worst happens, is the reason I went to law school and is the reason I wake up every day ready to fight.
I am an active pedestrian. During most days I can be found walking for pleasure, transportation, or exercise. Some days I can even be found jogging.
My life is knowing and living Oregon’s bicycle and pedestrian laws. I love educating others about the rights Oregon pedestrians have under the law. If you have any questions about what the law says (or doesn’t say) please feel free to contact me at cgee@humanpoweredlaw.com or (503) 278-5389.
WHY SHOULD I HIRE A PEDESTRIAN LAWYER
TO REPRESENT ME IN MY PERSONAL INJURY CASE?
Any personal injury attorney can handle a motor vehicle operator versus pedestrian collision case where an injury is involved. However, most personal injury lawyers will handle a pedestrian case just like a car crash case without understanding the nuances that make an injury case involving a pedestrian special.
If you have been injured as a pedestrian you need a lawyer that has experience handling your type of case.
Scene Investigation: Oftentimes a motorist will insist a pedestrian was “jaywalking” or crossing against a signal when they were hit. Sometimes the police officer investigating the crash will agree with them because the pedestrian was thrown from the crosswalk by the impact. Hiring a lawyer with biomechanical knowledge and investigation skills is crucial in the early days of a claim.
Benefits: Oregon insurance law provides unique benefits for pedestrians injured by a motor vehicle operator. If you’ve been injured in a crash you need to hire an attorney experienced in examining and pursuing all of the insurance benefits you have available.
Advocacy: Every crash on the roads is the result of a failed system. Distracted drivers, ancient or missing infrastructure, and a car-first transportation system cause countless injuries a year. I have been involved in pedestrian and bicyclist advocacy for years, working to make Oregon safer for all roadway users.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - PEDESTRIAN INSURANCE
Q. I have an Oregon automobile insurance policy. What coverage do I have if I am hit as a pedestrian?
A. In Oregon, every automobile insurance policy has four areas of coverage: Liability, Personal Injury Protection (PIP), Property Damage, and Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM). If you are hit as a pedestrian the coverage lines that will apply to you are PIP and UM/UIM.
Q. What is PIP?
Q. I walk as well as drive, do I need to buy an additional insurance policy that covers me?
A. It depends. In Oregon, your automobile insurance will cover you in some ways when you are walking. If you are injured in a collision with a motor vehicle, your PIP insurance will pay your medical bills. However, if you are injured in an accident that does not involve a motor vehicle, like you trip over a pavement defect, PIP will not cover you, but your health insurance would
Q. I usually walk for transportation. I don’t own a car. Can I get insurance?
Q. Do I still need a big policy if I mostly walk?
Q. I was hit by a car while walking and had to go to the hospital, how do I pay the bills? I have automobile insurance and health insurance.
Q. I was hit by a car by a car while I was walking. I had to go to the hospital. How do I pay the bills? I don’t have automobile insurance or health insurance.
Q. I was hit by a car while walking and now I can’t work. How do I recover my lost wages?
Q. I was hit by a car while walking and I don’t think I was hurt. Should I still file a claim with the driver’s insurance company?
Q. I was hit by a car while walking and the driver did not have insurance. What can I do? I have automobile insurance.
Q. I was hit by a car while walking and the driver did not have insurance. What can I do? I do not have automobile insurance.
CONTACT US
(503) 278-5389
3709 SE Gladstone St.
Portland, OR 97202
