Are You Eligible to Receive Compensation for Earthquake-Related Injuries?

Posted on behalf of RizkLaw on Feb 22, 2022 in Insurance Issues, Personal Injury

Earthquakes are a common occurrence in Oregon and have the potential to cause terrible damage to your property. In most cases, homeowner policies, as well as mobile home, condominium, and renter insurance policies, don’t cover earthquakes. Oregon’s Department of Consumer & Business Services reports that only around 20% of Oregonians have earthquake coverage since the protection must be purchased separately. If you’re interested in getting earthquake coverage, you’ll need to contact your insurance agent.

However, if an earthquake occurs and you suffer severe losses due to another person’s negligence, you can seek help from a dependable earthquake damage lawyer. For example, if you are currently living in an apartment complex and the foundation was not properly assessed, or the structural integrity of the building was compromised before the earthquake, you may be eligible to take legal action against the complex or other involved parties. To find out your legal rights and options, talk with your personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

How Can Earthquakes Cause Severe Damage in Portland, Oregon

Due to Oregon’s proximity to multiple faultlines, earthquakes are a common and extremely dangerous occurrence that can inflict life-threatening damage on many individuals. A few ways an earthquake can cause harm to an individual include:

Ground Shaking
Surface Rupture
Landslide
Liquefaction
Fire

It’s vital that property owners take responsibility for their buildings to ensure their safety and the well-being of others in the area. Confirming that the structural integrity of the building is prepared for natural disasters is essential.

What Are Some Common Damages Created by Earthquakes in Portland, Oregon?

When living in Oregon, preparing for an earthquake is critical for everyone — especially property owners. There are many losses a person can suffer because of an earthquake, including:

Severe Injuries

You may harm yourself by falling or colliding with other objects as the ground shakes. During an earthquake, you can easily sustain serious injuries that may significantly affect your life. Broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and internal injuries are all examples of harm you may suffer.

Structural Failure

A central issue with earthquakes is the structural damage to buildings and homes. This can cause the building to collapse or parts to fall onto the ground and cause possible injuries to the people in the area.

Water Damage

The shifting ground can cause pipes to break or the soil to loosen and cause water damage to your property. Water damage can also cause you to lose precious memories and even displace your living situation for a significant amount of time.

Fires

If an earthquake dislodges electrical and gas lines, gas can escape, and the spark of the cut wires can cause a dangerous fire. Fires can cause catastrophic damage, and precautions for these dangers are essential when preparing for earthquakes.

Oregon is no stranger to earthquakes, and neither are individuals living within the state. Taking necessary precautions like re-enforcing stability, securing water heaters, and implementing post-earthquake inspections can help prevent the destruction of your home.

Contact Attorney Richard Rizk for an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer in Oregon

While it’s critical that Oregon residents prepare for potential earthquakes, there are some cases where the damage you suffer results from another person’s negligence. If a property owner or other party disregards yourself and others’ safety, you can seek to recover the losses you incur from the accident.

Rizk Law lawyers can help you receive the compensation you deserve by representing your voice and protecting your rights. We have years of experience working with Oregon residents to recover their damages in legal proceedings. With countless positive testimonials and past results, you can trust our team to advocate for your interests.

Call (503) 245-5677 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with Attorney Richard Rizk today.

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