Portland Pedestrian Injury Lawyer

Hit and Run
Pedestrian Accident
Proves Fatal In Portland

Oregon Live recently did a news report highlighting some alarming statistics. Based on police reports, they show a total of 26 pedestrian deaths over the course of 2021. This sets an unfortunate record as the highest number of fatal pedestrian accidents in close to 50 years.

Sadly, this year is already off to a bad start in terms of these types of crashes. A January 3, 2022 KGW News 8 report detailed a fatal pedestrian accident that happened in Northeast Portland. Police have not released many details, other than to say that a driver struck and killed an unidentified victim who was walking at roughly 5:30 a.m., near Northeast Alderwood Road and Cornfoot Road. Rather than stopping, the driver fled the scene.

What would cause someone to not just attempt to avoid financial responsibility for a pedestrian accident in Portland but to actually leave an injured victim lying on the street rather than render help? At-fault drivers often make the decision to flee in a split second. Among the most common reasons include:

• Momentary panic;
• Fear of getting into trouble with police;
• Having a prior criminal record or outstanding warrants;
• Driving with a suspended license or without insurance;
• Doubts over immigration status and fear of deportation.

Holding Hit and Run
Drivers Accountable

According to the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety (IIHS), more than 20 percent of all fatal pedestrian accidents throughout the U.S. involve a hit and run driver. Even in cases where the victim is able to make a complete recovery, medical expenses and lost wages can end up totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars. Rather than having to pay out of pocket for these and other costs, our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys help victims and their families in this situation. Steps we can take to help hold hit and run drivers accountable include:

• Make sure BOLO (Be On The Lookout) reports are distributed among law enforcement officials;
• Get the word out to the general public via news reports and social media;
• Subpoena surveillance tapes from nearby stores or traffic signals where the accident happened;
• Visit local repair shops, where the at-fault driver may have taken their vehicle.

If you have been involved in a hit and run Portland Pedestrian accident, there still might be a way to get you compensation to get you back on your feet! Contact our Portland pedestrian accident attorney today to schedule your free initial consultation!

When Pedestrian
Accidents Result In
Long Term Disabilities

With little to protect them in collisions with motor vehicles, the injuries sustained by a pedestrian have the potential to be severe. These can result in long term disabilities. In the majority of cases, the reckless and negligent behaviors of motorists are to blame. Factors that not only increase the risk but also the severity of the injuries include:

• Speeding and driving too fast for conditions;
• Running red lights and stop signs;
• Failing to yield in crosswalks;
• Driving under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs, or medications.

In all of these scenarios, drivers are likely to be traveling over 30 miles per hour and may not see a pedestrian until it is too late. At this speed and without slamming on the brakes, pedestrian accident injuries can result in long term disabilities.

The speed at which a driver is traveling and whether they hesitate before striking the victim are major factors in pedestrian accidents, as is the height of the pedestrian and the point of impact. For example:

• With small children, who are among the most common pedestrian accident victims, crushing injuries frequently occur, causing permanent damage to body limbs and internal organs.
• For teens and adults under 5’5, impacts are likely to be in the center of the body, resulting in multiple broken ribs and internal bleeding. They are also likely to be thrown, resulting in road rash, head injuries, and other types of trauma.
• With taller individuals, the car may initially strike their legs or hips before throwing them up and over the vehicle or into the windshield, resulting in severe lacerations, multiple fractures, and head and neck trauma.

Considering the violent nature of pedestrian accident injuries, long term disabilities often occur as a result. While you may be entitled to compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance, filing a pedestrian accident lawsuit may be the best way to ensure you get the compensation you are entitled to for your pain, suffering, current medical expenses, and lost income, as well as for the future costs you are likely to incur.

Pedestrian Deaths
In Portland At A
50 Year High

A December 1, 2021 Oregon Live news report shared some troubling statistics about pedestrian accident cases. According to local police reports, fatal pedestrian accidents have reached historic levels. In total, roughly 60 people have been killed in Portland motor vehicle accidents over the past year, with close to half of these being pedestrians. This is the highest rate in over 50 years. With increased hours of darkness and the potential for bad weather in the coming months, Portland Police expect this number to continue rising. 

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. Common types of accidents that can result in serious and life-threatening personal injuries include:

• Crosswalk accidents;
• Pedestrian accidents that happen near bus stops or train stations;
• Parking lot pedestrian accidents;
• Pedestrian accidents involving children in residential areas;
• Pedestrian accidents that happen when walking on highways;
• Pedestrian accidents involving motorists who suffer vehicle breakdowns. 

Steps To Prevent
Pedestrian Accidents
In Portland

City officials are working on ways to reduce pedestrian accidents in Portland. This includes installing more sidewalks, traffic signals, crossing islands, and lowering speed limits. At the same time, local residents are urged to use caution and take steps necessary to keep themselves safe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends the following: 

• Wear the proper shoes when out walking to avoid slips and falls;
• Wear light, bright colors to increase visibility, particularly when walking at night;
• Walk only in areas with designated sidewalks;
• Always use crosswalks at intersections;
• Look both ways before stepping into the street;
• Never assume a driver sees you or will stop;
• Avoid using ear buds, which could silence car horns, screeching tires, or other sounds of an impending crash;
• Avoid distractions and keep your eyes on the sidewalk in front of you;
• Avoid walking if you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications. 

When a pedestrian accident does happen, report it to the police  immediately and seek medical care for your injuries, regardless of severity. Make note of exactly where and when it happened and any witnesses at the scene. This is useful information, particularly in hit and run pedestrian accidents where the at-fault driver attempts to flee the scene. If you would like more Portland pedestrian accident resources, reach out to our lawyers and they will be happy to help you!

Pedestrian Injury FAQs

Even if you own a car and drive often, you are still a pedestrian on a daily basis, even if it is just walking from your car into a building. While walking is good for the environment and for your health, walking near traffic always comes with the risk of serious accidents and injuries. Below are some answers to some Portland pedestrian injury FAQs you may have.