Hard on the tragic death of a Portland toddler in a Portland pedestrian accident, and new statistical evidence that the danger to pedestrians is increasing here in Oregon, the Portland Tribune has published an analysis highlighting some of the metro area’s worst intersections.
According to the paper, “Northeast Marine Drive now ranks No. 1 on the city’s new list of most dangerous stretches, with 16 fatalities in the past 10 years.” It is important to note that while Northeast Marine has seen the largest number of fatalities, the worst stretch of road for crashes overall is Southeast Powell Boulevard. Though there have been fewer pedestrian deaths there over the past decade (nine, versus the 16 on Northeast Marine), the overall crash rate is significantly higher than anywhere else in the city: 5345, including a stunning 356 just at the intersection of Southeast Powell and 82nd Avenue. See below for a link to the original article, which includes the full list.
The last few weeks have provided both tragic evidence for and statistical validation of the belief that reckless drivers need to be held to account for their actions. Crossing the street should not be the dangerous and life-threatening experience it has become in some parts of Portland. In recounting the story of one accident, the Tribune notes that the busy intersection on Burnside where it took place “is nearly impossible to cross on foot, though it is, in fact, a legal crosswalk.”
Clearly there is a need here for some reassessment of traffic and street-crossing rules by the city and county. The broader truth, however, is that drivers need to raise their level of awareness whenever they are behind the wheel. Cars share our roads with pedestrians and cyclists, who are at a fundamental disadvantage whenever an Oregon accident occurs.
If you have been the victim of such an accident, a Portland pedestrian accident lawyer can become your most important ally in your effort to achieve justice. While our legal system is well-designed to hold reckless drivers accountable for their actions the process of doing so can sometimes be long – and is almost always confusing and intimidating for those unfamiliar with it. An Oregon car crash lawyer who specializes in pedestrian and bicycle accidents can act as both guide and advocate as you make your way through the process.
Portland Tribune: Danger