Oregon City is small in size (8.4 square miles) and small in population (barely 32,000 residents), but has a rich history stretching back to the pioneer era. Founded in 1829 – a full 30 years before the territory of Oregon became a state – Oregon City proudly identifies itself as the oldest incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains. This heritage is recognized in Oregon City’s motto, which appears in Latin on the city seal: “First and mothertown of our state.” The city played a key role in the early history of the Oregon Territory, serving briefly as the territorial capital in the 1840s (since it was the place where newly-arrived settlers had to go to file land claims) and vying with Portland to be the state’s main city for decades thereafter. Notably, Oregon City was home to the Oregon Spectator – the first newspaper published West of the Rockies. This rich history is still reflected in the city’s downtown area, where Oregon City’s 19th century character has been carefully preserved.
Oregon City’s location also provides access to the legal services offered by Matthew Kaplan from his office at 50 SW Pine St #302 in Portland. As an Oregon personal injury attorney, Matt’s practice specializes in wrongful death and industrial accident cases. Figures published by the federal government’s Bureau of Labor Statistics offer important perspective on this problem.
Total Number of Workplace fatalities in Oregon:
| 1992-1994: | 252 |
| 1995-1997: | 242 |
| 1998-2000: | 193 |
| 2001-2003: | 182 |
| 2004-2006: | 212 |
| 2007-2009: | 190 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
The government report goes on to note that in 2009, the most recent year for which figures have been published, four types of accidents accounted for fully “62 percent of all work-related fatalities in the state.” These are:
Because Oregon City is the seat of Clackamas County many of these issues are addressed in the city’s courthouse at 807 Main Street. This is also the headquarters of Oregon’s 5th Judicial District. The local knowledge offered by Matthew Kaplan, and his familiarity with the Clackamas County courts and their procedures can be essential for clients seeking the justice they deserve in the wake of an Oregon industrial accident that has injured or killed a loved one. Call Matthew Kaplan at (503) 226-3844 to schedule an appointment to discuss how he can help.
Oregon City lies 20 miles South of Portland, alongside the Willamette River. Matthew’s office is at 50 SW Pine St #302 in Portland. We look forward to meeting you!