Audit Reveals PBOT’s Vision Zero Struggles to Ensure Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrian accidents are a prevalent issue in Portland and cities worldwide. To combat this growing concern and curb the rising trend of traffic violence, the Vision Zero plan was developed. This initiative focuses on tackling the root causes of traffic fatalities and has achieved notable success in other countries. However, Portland has struggled to see similar outcomes. Over the past year, traffic accidents, including those involving pedestrians, have risen. A recent audit has further revealed that PBOT’s Vision Zero program has not adequately addressed pedestrian safety.

Audit Findings Highlight Gaps in Vision Zero’s Implementation

The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) must reassess whether its Vision Zero Action Plan is effectively reducing traffic deaths and injuries, according to a report by the Portland City Auditor. While PBOT has made progress in lowering speeds and redesigning high-crash corridors, pedestrian safety remains a critical shortfall. The report highlights that traffic fatalities have risen since Vision Zero’s 2016 launch, with 69 deaths recorded in 2023, out of which 24 were pedestrians.

Key challenges include insufficient lighting and crosswalks due to staffing shortages, resource constraints, and pandemic-related supply chain disruptions. Notably, 70% of traffic deaths between 2019 and 2022 occurred in low-light conditions, emphasizing the importance of proper illumination.

To further reduce speeds, the audit recommends expanding the use of speed cameras and improving enforcement through partnerships with local police. Currently, PBOT operates a limited number of speed and intersection cameras, some of which issue warnings instead of fines for first-time offenders.

The report also criticizes PBOT for lacking a system to measure the outcomes of completed safety projects and suggests identifying smaller-scale improvements to achieve quicker and more equitable results. PBOT leadership has acknowledged the audit’s findings and expressed commitment to implementing its recommendations.

What Is the Vision Zero Program?

Portland’s Vision Zero is a strategic initiative aimed at eliminating traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries on city streets. Established in 2016, the program adopts a “Safe System” approach, recognizing that while human errors are inevitable, the transportation system can be designed to prevent these errors from resulting in severe harm. This methodology emphasizes shared responsibility among road users, policymakers, and engineers to create a forgiving and resilient traffic environment.

The Vision Zero Action Plan outlines several key strategies:

• Safe Speeds: Implementing measures to reduce vehicle speeds, such as adjusting speed limits and enhancing enforcement, to decrease the likelihood and severity of crashes.
• Safe Streets: Redesigning roadways to prioritize safety for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, through infrastructure improvements like protected bike lanes and enhanced crosswalks.
• Safe People: Promoting responsible behavior among road users via education campaigns and community engagement to foster a culture of safety.
• Safe Vehicles: Encouraging the adoption of vehicle technologies and standards that enhance safety, such as advanced braking systems and improved visibility features.
• Accountability: Establishing transparent processes for monitoring progress, evaluating outcomes, and ensuring that all stakeholders are committed to the Vision Zero objectives.

By integrating these components, Portland’s Vision Zero aims to create a transportation system where serious injuries and fatalities are not just reduced but entirely eradicated.

Challenges Faced by Traffic Accident Victims in Portland

Car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, or bicycle accidents can have a devastating impact on the lives of victims, leaving them to face a range of physical, emotional, and financial challenges. In Portland, where traffic-related injuries and fatalities have been on the rise, victims often find themselves struggling to recover while navigating a complex system of medical care and legal processes.

One of the most immediate challenges is accessing timely and affordable medical treatment. Victims of severe accidents may face long-term injuries, requiring costly surgeries, rehabilitation, or therapy. For many, these medical bills can quickly pile up, especially if they lack adequate insurance coverage.

Beyond the physical toll, the emotional impact of traffic accidents can be profound. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, making it difficult to return to daily routines. Families of those affected also bear emotional and financial burdens, particularly in cases involving fatalities.

Navigating legal and insurance claims adds another layer of difficulty. Victims often face delays or disputes with insurance companies over compensation, further prolonging their recovery. In these situations, seeking professional legal assistance becomes crucial to ensure victims can focus on healing while pursuing the justice and financial support they deserve.

Injured in a Traffic Accident? Seek Legal Help from Our Personal Injury Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured or lost their life in a traffic accident either as a pedestrian or as a motorist in Portland, it is crucial to seek professional legal assistance. Traffic accidents often involve complex circumstances, with potentially severe injuries and multiple parties who may share responsibility for the incident.

At the Johnston Personal Injury Law Firm, we are committed to thoroughly investigating your case, identifying the liable parties, and taking the necessary steps to secure the compensation you deserve. Whether dealing with medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages, our attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you.

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Sources:
https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/about-vision-zero
https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/portland-vision-zero-action-plan-update-2023-25
https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/making-streets-safe
https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/portland-annual-deadly-traffic-crash-reports