The Governor has signed into law a bill which restricts the use of cell phones while driving in Oregon. The law will to into effect on January 1, 2010. The law prohibits use of a mobile communication device (a text messaging or wireless two way communication device) while driving.

There is a list of exceptions. (more…)

One of the problems that I sometimes observe is people that are uninsured. If your insurance agent does not discuss the amount of insurance you have, you should change insurance agents. Here are some of the things to look for, and are common areas in which people can be under-insured. (more…)

Every automobile insurance policy in Oregon is required to include personal injury protection benefits, or PIP, in the amount of at least $15,000. This PIP protection benefit applies to the insured driver, other family members, children living with the insured (even if unrelated) and passengers. It also covers pedestrians and bicycle riders involved in a collision with a motor vehicle. PIP primarily provides coverage for medical care.  However, it also provides some coverage for lost wages, and some other coverage such as funeral expenses up to a given amount. (more…)

In automobile collision events, diminished value means that the car is not worth as much following the collision as it was before the collision. In Oregon the measurement of diminished value is value of the vehicle before the collision minus the value of the vehicle following repairs after the collision. In Oregon, if the other party is at fault, a person is entitled to recover any diminished value that they suffered due to an automobile collision from the at-fault party. (more…)