Personal Injury Practice Area

Outdoor Recreation Accidents

Outdoor Recreation Accident Attorney in Oregon

Outdoor recreation accidents involving boats, dune buggies, ATVs, or UTVs can cause catastrophic injuries that instantly upend your life. If you’ve suffered this type of accident, you’ll need compassionate legal support to navigate the challenges ahead.

Our team holds responsible parties accountable for your suffering, while offering you the kindest possible service. Times like this can be isolating; with us, you have a whole team on your side.

Our team has a proven track record of successful verdicts, including some of the most complex outdoor recreation accident cases in Oregon.

How do catastrophic outdoor recreation accidents happen?

Boating accidents

  • Inexperienced operators: Lack of experience can lead to dangerous situations on the water, including collisions and capsizing.

  • Alcohol or drug impairment: Operating any vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol significantly increases the risk of accidents.

  • Equipment failure: Poorly-maintained equipment can malfunction and cause accidents.

Dune buggy accidents

  • High-speed crashes: Dune buggies are often driven at high speeds over rough terrain, increasing the likelihood of rollovers and collisions.

  • Visibility issues: Dust, sand, and other environmental factors can impair visibility, leading to accidents.

  • Unstable terrain: The unpredictable nature of dunes can cause vehicles to lose control.

ATV/UTV accidents

  • Inexperienced riders: ATVs and UTVs require skill to operate safely. Inexperienced riders are at a higher risk of accidents.

  • Overloading: Carrying more than the vehicle is designed for can lead to instability.

  • Terrain hazards: Uneven ground, rocks, and sudden drops can cause ATVs and UTVs to lose control.

Catastrophic injuries from outdoor recreation accidents can include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Head injuries are common in high-impact collisions and can lead to permanent cognitive impairment.

  • Spinal cord injuries: These injuries often result in paralysis.

  • Fractures and broken bones: High-impact accidents can result in fractures that require extensive medical treatment.

  • Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma from crashes can cause internal bleeding and organ damage.

Victims of catastrophic outdoor recreation accidents may experience:

  • Extensive medical treatment: Emergency surgeries, hospitalization, and ongoing rehabilitation are sometimes necessary after severe accidents.

  • Emotional trauma: PTSD, anxiety, and depression may develop following a catastrophic accident.

  • Financial hardship: Medical bills, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity can place significant financial strain on victims and their families.

  • Lifestyle changes: Catastrophic injuries may require adaptive equipment, home modifications, and long-term care.

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Common questions about outdoor recreation accident cases:

What should I do if I’m involved in an outdoor recreation accident?

  • Move to a safe place, out of the way of other vehicles when possible.

  • Call 911 to report the accident.

  • Seek medical attention.

  • Exchange information with others involved.

  • Document the scene and any injuries with photos.

  • Gather contact information from any witnesses.

  • Avoid speaking to an insurance adjuster before you’ve consulted an attorney.

  • Consult a personal injury lawyer – contact Mandekor Law Firm to schedule a consultation, so we can determine if we can help you.

How long do I have to file an accident claim in Oregon after an outdoor recreation accident?

In Oregon, you typically have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. There may be a shorter time frame, depending on the type of case. It’s essential to act within this period to protect your right to compensation.

What types of compensation can I receive after an outdoor recreation accident?

Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage. Each case is different, and your ability to receive compensation will depend on your specific situation.

How can I prove others involved were at fault for the outdoor recreation accident?

Establishing fault often requires gathering and presenting evidence such as police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, expert analysis of the accident scene, and vehicles or other equipment involved. Our legal team will handle this process to build a compelling case on your behalf.

Why is having an experienced trial attorney important in catastrophic injury cases?

Insurance companies are more inclined to offer substantial settlements to attorneys with a strong track record of courtroom success. Our team has significant trial experience, having taken nearly 100 cases to verdict. We handle Oregon's most serious cases with steadfast commitment to representing victims.

Contact Mandekor Law Firm

If you or a loved one has been severely injured by an outdoor recreation accident, contact Mandekor Law Firm to schedule a consultation. We’ll handle your case with the seriousness it deserves so you can focus on recovering.

  • "Gretchen Mandekor and her team are excellence personified!"

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  • "Gretchen Mandekor is a brilliant, powerful and compassionate attorney who achieves justice and accountability for her clients. If you have an opportunity to work with Gretchen or to learn from her, take it!"

    Hermine Hayes-Klein

  • "I'm so glad the universe brought Gretchen into my life! Immediately after meeting her, I knew that she would represent me with care and compassion while working hard to get me the best possible outcome. I always felt heard and she ensured that I could get my questions answered. I highly recommend Gretchen Mandekor as counsel should you ever find yourself in need of an outstanding and tenacious personal injury attorney who treats you as a whole person."

    Anna Mangiantini

  • "Gretchen Mandekor, a renowned attorney at Mandekor Law Firm, displayed exemplary leadership in achieving our $11.4 Million trial victory against Mt. Hood Ski Bowl. Her involvement was vital to our triumph. Observing Gretchen's trial performance was akin to witnessing a masterclass."

    Mackenzie Totten

  • "I set out to write this professional review, but I have to stop myself from writing a love letter. [Gretchen] helped me after my back-to-back car accidents, ensuring the outcomes that protected me. She brought efficiency and quality to every interaction. I can tell that she loves her work from her genuine care about others. In meetings for the cases, we talked about so much more than just business. She went above and beyond."

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  • "Gretchen Mandekor is without a doubt the best personal injury attorney in Oregon. Her experience in the field is very extensive, particularly with circumstances of mediation and in-court trial cases. It was easy for me to quickly put 100% trust in her and to know without a doubt that my legal matters were in incredible hands. Mandekor Law Firm is the best of the best."

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