Unlike people, all roads are not created equal. Despite federal and state safety regulations, some roads are still inherently more dangerous than others in Oregon. In some cases, this is primarily due to the sheer volume of traffic, but in others, it is more of a matter of poor design.
Four Dangerous Roads in Oregon You Should Try to Avoid
The Oregon Traffic Crash Summary provides a detailed breakdown of each year’s traffic accident data collected by the State. Under Oregon State Law, a motor vehicle traffic crash must be reported to the authorities if it involved a fatality, bodily injury, or damage to personal property in excess of $2,500 (as of 2018). The Traffic Crash Summary contains a detailed analysis of the year’s motor vehicle traffic crashes and is published annually by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), per ORS 802.050(2) and 802.220(6).
Despite roadways being largely deserted during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, The Beaver State saw over 38,000 motor vehicle accidents in 2020. Of the years evaluated in the most recent Oregon Traffic Crash Summary, which analyzed data from 2016 to 2020, 2020 was also the deadliest year, with 507 lives lost on Oregon roads.
If you are an Oregon driver, you may want to avoid these four stretches of road, currently thought to be the most dangerous in Oregon:
SW Canyon Road at Highway 217 Interchange
Considered the most dangerous stretch of roadway in Oregon, this Beaverton-area interchange sees approximately 19,500 cars on a daily basis. Multiple improvements have been proposed to improve safety at the SW Canyon Road and Highway 217 interchange, but the project’s approval is still awaiting financial support from the county.
Sunset Highway Leading to The Vista Ridge Tunnels
Carrying roughly 30% more traffic than New York City’s Lincoln Tunnel, Portland’s Vista Ridge Tunnels are the busiest tunnels in the State of Oregon. Approaching the tunnels, U.S. 26 takes motorists around quick turns, up a steep grade, and into congestion as commuters pack the roadway, making their way into downtown Portland. The area is the second most dangerous section of roadway in the state, with over 67,000 vehicles passing through each day and near-daily fender-benders.
Oregon 213 at Beavercreek Road
The speed limit on Oregon 213 may only be 55 mph, but that doesn’t seem to stop countless drivers from flying down the freeway near Beavercreek Road. Although Oregon City has requested state funding to improve the interchange, no improvements have been made as of 2022.
SW Beaverton Hillsdale Highway at Highway 217 Interchange
Similar to the SW Canyon Road at Highway 217 interchange, impatient drivers seem to plague the SW Beaverton Hillsdale Highway at Highway 217 interchange, where many drivers seem to think stop signs and traffic lights are optional—making this Beaverton interchange one of the most dangerous in Oregon.
You Could Be Eligible to Recover Compensation for an Oregon Car Accident Injury
Did you or someone you love suffer an injury on a dangerous Oregon road or freeway? If so, you could be eligible to recover compensation for your damages, such as medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering.
When you partner with the Rizk Law car accident lawyers, we will thoroughly investigate your Oregon car accident and work to gather strong evidence on your behalf. We can also manage communication with the insurance company and guide you through the process step by step. We provide free consultations to discuss your injury claim and legal options. Should you choose to move forward, we will charge no upfront fees. Call (503) 245-5677 or submit a completed contact form for more information about how we can help.