At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our Oregon personal injury attorneys know, (per the Governors Highway Safety Association), drivers struck and killed at least 7,508 people walking last year — including the 131 people killed while walking in Oregon.
The latest statistics reflect the highest number of pedestrians killed nationwide since 1981 and an average of 20 deaths every day. Pedestrian fatalities have skyrocketed 77% since 2010, compared to 25% for all other traffic-related deaths.
What are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Oregon?
Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons, and understanding the common causes is crucial for promoting pedestrian safety.
Several factors contribute to pedestrian accidents in Oregon, including:
Drivers distracted by texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment systems may fail to notice pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Failure to Yield
Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks, intersections, or other designated crossing points contribute to pedestrian accidents.
- Speeding
Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in road conditions and increases the severity of accidents. Higher speeds can be especially dangerous for pedestrians.
- Impaired Driving
Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to cause accidents, including those involving pedestrians. Impaired judgment and slower reaction times contribute to the risk.
- Failure to Obey Traffic Signals
Both drivers and pedestrians must adhere to traffic signals and signs. Failure to do so, like running a red light or crossing against a signal, can lead to accidents.
- Driver Inattention
Inattentive driving, including daydreaming or a general lack of focus, can result in drivers failing to notice nearby pedestrians.
- Backing Collisions
Parking lots and driveways are common locations for pedestrian accidents when drivers are backing out of parking spaces or driveways without noticing pedestrians.
- Left Turns at Intersections
Pedestrian accidents frequently occur when drivers making left turns fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
Contact our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys at the Law Offices of Jon Friedman
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident in Oregon, contact our Multnomah County attorneys at the Law Offices of Jon Friedman at (503)-242-1440 or online today to schedule a free consultation and get the help you need to make informed decisions about the direction of your case.
