As we enter a new year, pedestrian accidents in Portland continue to be a serious problem. Just recently, as reported in The Oregonian, there was a car crash that killed a pedestrian due to the freezing rain. Troubling statistics from 2022 show that the number of crashes reached an all-time high, claiming the lives of victims throughout our city and leaving numerous others suffering severe personal injuries. To protect yourself in the year to come, our Portland pedestrian accident attorney outlines six behaviors that significantly increase your risks.
Portland Pedestrian Accidents Claim Record Numbers of Victims
Portland has struggled for the past several years with troubling surges in the pedestrian accident rate. Unfortunately, 2022 ended up being a record-breaking year. According to a December 23, 2022 Willamette Week news report, 31 people were killed in pedestrian accidents in Portland over the course of the prior year. This is the highest number of victims since 1952.
As reckless driving is typically to blame, public officials are urging motorists to use caution. Dangerous driving behaviors that put pedestrians at risk include:
- Speeding and going too fast for conditions;
- Running red lights and stop signs;
- Distracted driving, such as using cell phones or texting;
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Avoid Behaviors That Increase Your Risks
Walking provides exercise and an inexpensive, environmentally-friendly form of transportation for many residents. However, to reduce the risks of being a victim of a pedestrian accident in Portland, it is important to take steps to protect yourself. That includes avoiding the following five behaviors:
- Being distracted: Distractions are just as dangerous for pedestrians as they are for drivers and increase the risk of being a victim. Avoid texting, listening to music in earbuds, or anything else that could distract you from signs that an accident may be imminent.
- Not getting enough sleep: Lack of sleep impacts your vision, judgment, coordination, and reflexes, making pedestrian accidents in Portland more likely to happen.
- Walking under the influence: While walking is generally safer than driving while under the influence, it increases your pedestrian accident risks. Redly on a sober friend or ridesharing services instead.
- Not using crosswalks or otherwise walking in unsafe locations: Avoid walking along major highways, on bridges, or in any location without a sidewalk. Intersections are one of the most common places for pedestrian accidents in Portland-always use a crosswalk.
- Assuming drivers see you: Always be cautious and look both ways before entering a road. Never assume a driver sees you or will stop.
Injured In A Crash? Contact Our Portland Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Right Away
Pedestrian accidents in Portland are unfortunately common and have the potential to be deadly. Even in non-fatal accidents, personal injuries suffered by victims can impact them and their families for years to come.
If you are injured in a crash, get the professional legal representation you need from the Johnston Law Firm. We help you get the maximum amount you need to recover, avoiding out-of-pocket costs. To request a consultation, call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys online today.