Car accidents in Portland can happen to even the safest of drivers. However, there are certain types of driving behaviors that increase your risks. Among the most dangerous is speeding and driving under the influence. These are being blamed for a recent fatal car accident in Portland. Find out more about why they are such a dangerous mix.
How Speeding Increases Car Accident and Personal Injury Risks
A December 17, 2021 report by the Portland Police Bureau sheds lights on a traffic fatal crash that occurred earlier in the month. Three men were driving in a 2018 Honda Civic on Eastbound North Lombard Street when the driver lost control of the vehicle. It swerved off the road, striking a power pole and other objects. It eventually rolled over and came to a stop on North Chautauqua Boulevard. Two of the men in the car were killed and the third suffered serious personal injuries. Police claim that both alcohol use and speeding were responsible for the crash.
Speed-related car accidents are one of the most common causes of fatal motor vehicle injuries. Factors that make going over the speed limit so dangerous include:
- Reduced tire traction, making it more likely to skid and leave the road;
- Reduced reaction times, making it less likely to respond to unexpected events;
- Limited ability to correct adverse actions, such as going into a swerve or spin;
- Increased force of impact, which increases the odds of fatal injuries.
The Dangerous Role Alcohol Plays In Portland Car Accidents
Under the Oregon Code, driving under the influence of any type of intoxicating substance or having a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of .08 or greater is illegal. Police are aggressive in apprehending drunk driving and prosecutors push to make these charges stick. A main part of the reason is the risks drunk driving poses on the roads.
Driving under the influence is one of the most dangerous types of behaviors, as alcohol impacts numerous skills and abilities you need while behind the wheel. This includes:
- Impaired vision: In addition to increased glare and seeing double, alcohol impacts depth perception, making it harder to gauge the distance between you and other drivers.
- Reaction times: As with speeding, alcohol limits your ability to react to unexpected events on the road;
- Reduced coordination: This makes it harder to perform multiple tasks associated with driving, such as turning the steering wheel, applying brakes, and looking in rear view mirrors.
- Impaired judgment: This makes you more likely to engage in speeding and other dangerous driving behaviors.
Let Us Help You Today
If you or someone you love is injured in a car accident, reach out to the Johnston Law Firm P.C. We determine the cause and hold at-fault driver’s accountable. To request a consultation, call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland car accident attorneys online today.