Police-Related Motor Vehicle Accidents Pose Risks In Portland, Throughout Oregon

Police officers perform important work, helping to keep residents across Oregon safe. Unfortunately, in the course of their duties, they can end up engaging in behavior that puts the public at risk. 

Police-related car accidents are a serious problem in Portland and throughout the state. Our Oregon personal injury attorneys explain how these crashes happen and your rights in seeking compensation in a claim. 

Motorcyclist Injured In Officer-Involved Crash

A local motorcyclist was recently injured in an officer-involved car crash. According to a June 22, 2022 news release from the Portland Police Bureau, it happened on Southeast 92nd Avenue, near Southeast Holgate Boulevard. 

Witnesses report seeing an East Precinct police in a fully marked 2020 Ford Interceptor Utility vehicle heading northbound. The officer was responding to an injury call and with sirens blaring and lights flashing, he attempted to navigate through a red light at the intersection. 

While other traffic was stopped, a motorcyclist heading eastbound attempted to make a left turn and was struck by the vehicle. The victim, a 43-year-old Portland resident, was taken to a local and is reported to be recovering from his injuries. 

Officer-Involved Car Crashes Common Throughout The State

Unfortunately, car accidents such as the above happen on a regular basis. In the course of performing their duties, officers are often required to rush to the scene of accidents or crimes. Weaving in and out of traffic, running red lights, and driving over local speed limits are common practices that can put other motorists at risk. 

Officer-involved crashes are also common in the course of giving chase. This was the case in a recent car accident in Oregon City. Oregon Live reported that a driver was killed after speeding and losing control of his vehicle in an effort to evade police. 

To prevent these types of accidents, the Oregon Department of Public Safety and Standards has strict rules and regulations officers must follow both in dealing with other motorists while performing job duties and in giving chase to suspects: 

• As police officers, they must make public safety their top priority. 
• While authorized to break traffic rules, they must show a high degree of discretion in doing so. 
• The car they are driving must be clearly marked and recognizable as a law enforcement vehicle. 
• They must abandon a chase in situations where it poses too great of risks.  

When they fail to adhere to these rules, the officer and the police department as a whole may be held liable for damages victims suffer in a claim. 

Injured In An Officer-Related Crash? Contact Our Oregon Personal Injury Attorneys  

At the Johnston Law Firm P.C., we support the dedication of local law enforcement officials. However, we are also dedicated to helping protect injured victims. When officer-involved car accidents happen, either to innocent bystanders or suspects in criminal cases, you can count on to help you hold those at fault accountable in a claim. To discuss your options, call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Oregon personal injury attorneys online and request a consultation today.