Pedestrian accidents continue to be a major concern in Portland. A new study shows that people in lower-income neighborhoods are among those most at risk. For victims in these cases, getting the compensation they and their families need is a top priority.
Pedestrian Accidents Disproportionately Impact Lower-Income Neighborhoods
On July 2, 2021, the Pew Charitable Trust shared a report on the devastating impacts pedestrian accidents can have on low-income neighborhoods and how people living in these areas are most at risk. It highlighted the serious nature of the problem in cities across the country, including Portland.
Residents in lower-income communities are more likely to rely on walking due to the high costs of owning a vehicle, keeping the gas tank full, and paying outrageously expensive parking fees. They may walk to local bus stops in order to get to work or to local stores when running errands. During these trips, there are often several factors that can put them at an increased risk:
- They are more likely to lack sidewalks and pedestrian islands or have those that are crumbling and in need of repair;
- They typically have fewer red lights and stop signs, increasing the danger at intersections;
- They are less likely to have pedestrian crosswalks;
- They are more likely to be near major highways or other heavily traveled thoroughfares;
- They have generally higher speed limits, increasing both the risk of pedestrian accidents and the severity of injuries.
Speeding is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Portland and the report highlighted how the city was attempting to address the situation. In addition to increased traffic monitoring by police, the city reduced speeds in residential areas from 25 miles per hour to 20 and installed speed feedback cameras to let motorists know how fast they are traveling.
When Pedestrian Accidents Happen To You Or Someone You Love
The Pew report states that in addition to inordinately impacting low-impact people, pedestrian accidents are also more likely to impact people of color. In some areas, they are more than twice as likely to become victims of pedestrian accidents. Portland’s Vision Zero program aims at reducing these risks by eliminating disparities in infrastructure and taking actions, such as reducing speed limits, adding more sidewalks, and increasing the number of traffic signals.
Another key issue with pedestrian accidents in Portland is making sure victims get the compensation they deserve. This means ensuring low-income communities have access to legal representation in filing claims, which increases the odds of getting the maximum amount for medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses.
Our Portland Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Are Here To Help
At the Johnston Law Firm P.C., we are dedicated to helping pedestrian accident victims get the compensation they are entitled to in a claim. We generally handle these cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we get money for you. Call at (503) 546-316f7 or contact our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys online to request a consultation today.