” Based on Groce’s account of events and statements from witnesses that the crash appeared to be an intentional act, police called out assault detectives to the scene, rather than traffic investigators.”
The victim reportedly suffered minor injuries and the driver subsequently arrested on grounds of second-degree assault; the arraignment took place a few days later. Indeed, personal injury attorneys in Salem, Oregon make the distinction between assault (the threat of harm) and battery (actual harm) when it comes to intentional tort cases. Had the victim suffered more serious injuries that required hospitalization, he would have been well within his rights to file a personal injury claim in order to secure compensation for pain, suffering, medical expenses, and even future loss of earnings.”
http://www.youdlaw.com/2014/04/personal-injury-attorneys-in-salem-oregon-seeking-just-compensation.html