While COVID-19 restrictions have eased and people are largely resuming their usual activities, post-pandemic frustration continues to run high. One place it is particularly apparent is on the road. A recent car accident in our area, which police are referring to as an ‘assault crash’, raises awareness of the problem and our Portland, Oregon car accident attorney wants you to be aware of the potential risks.
Driver Responsible For Portland, Oregon Car Accident Charged With Assault
A Portland man is accused of intentionally causing a head-on collision that involved two other vehicles and left several people with potentially serious personal injuries. According to a July 27, 2021 KOIN News report, the crash happened on NE Glisan Street near NE 114th Avenue.
Investigators claim that a 39-year-old man was driving a white 2000 Saturn when he purposely rammed into another car on the road, causing it to cross the median and collide head-on with a third vehicle traveling the opposite direction. Both cars suffered extensive damage. In the aftermath of the crash, the Saturn driver fled the scene.
Police eventually identified him after soliciting tips from the general public. Based on joint efforts by the Portland and Gresham police, he was later arrested and booked on charges of 2nd-degree assault and reckless driving. The authorities claim that there were others in his vehicle that may have played a role in the incident and that additional criminal charges may be filed in the case.
Incidents Involving Aggressive Driving Increase Since Pandemic
Purposely ramming your car into another vehicle is an extreme example of aggressive driving and fits into the category of ‘road rage’. Unfortunately, according to researchers at the PEW Trust, these types of incidents are not uncommon. Police across the country have reported an increase in volatile and potentially violent altercations between motorists, with a definite spike in cases since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Officials claim that even with businesses reopened and social distancing requirements eased, many people are continuing to show signs of deep frustration and anger over all that has happened. This has spilled over onto the roads, resulting in an increase in aggressive driving behaviors, including:
- Speeding and going too fast for conditions;
- Tailgating other drivers, which involves following too closely;
- Improper passing and cutting other motorists off in traffic;
- Failure to yield the right of way.
As experienced Oregon car accident lawyers, we know firsthand the damage aggressive driving can cause and what a common contributing factor it is in car crashes. Even when it does not result in violent altercations or ‘road rage’, it can still leave you and your passengers suffering serious personal injuries.
Let Us Help You Today
Have you or someone you loved been injured due to another driver’s aggressive behavior? At the Johnston Law Firm P.C., we can help hold them accountable so you can get the compensation you deserve. Give us a call at (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland, Oregon car accident attorney online and request a consultation today.