City of Portland to Install More Speed Cameras

Posted on behalf of RizkLaw on Aug 13, 2021 in Auto Accident

The Oregon Department of Transportation reports that between 10,000 and 12,000 crashes happen each year. In response to the vehicular violence crisis, the city council passed the 2021–2022 budget, including PBOT Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty’s $450,000 amendment that will provide street safety interventions. Along with the increased budget, the Oregon Senate passed House Bill 2530, repealing the sunset on the traffic camera program, which was set to expire in 2024. 

These active changes set to increase the installation of speed cameras are aimed at reducing the number of people killed in motor vehicle accidents. Many hope that these new additions to speed regulation will help lower crashes and insist speed limits on drivers. While accidents are still likely to happen, reduced speeds can limit their severity and lower the chances of fatality.

What Are Speeding Cameras?

Also known as photo radar and automated speed enforcement, speed cameras record a vehicle’s speed using radar, photographs, and other technology to capture the speeding individual. These instruments are often placed in less populated back road areas or in residential areas with frequent speeding. Areas with long stretches of road that may encourage speeding are also common locations for speeding cameras. 

There are also two types of speeding cameras:

  • Fixed Speeding Cameras: These pieces of equipment are often easier to spot and are mounted on elevated poles on the side of the road. Their bulky weatherproof containers and flashing lights make it easy for drivers to spot and avoid them. 
  • Mobile Speeding Cameras: A mobile speeding camera often comes on a tripod and is moved around so crowdsourcing apps and databases aren’t able to locate them. 

Speeding cameras greatly impact the way people drive on the road. While some may feel angered by the recent additions of speed enforcement cameras, there is no doubt these little pieces of technology can change the layout and safety of our roads. 

Will the Increase in Speed Cameras Make the Roads Safer?

Despite lessened traffic during the pandemic, 54 people were killed in 2020 due to traffic-related accidents. The city’s concern for the spark in fatalities had legislation questioning how to keep Portland’s roads safe. Even though statistics show that speed cameras significantly impact traffic accidents, only eight automated cameras were installed in the past five years.

Both law enforcement and the city council hope that the new additions of safety cameras and protocol can keep people from speeding and running red lights. Speeding lowers driver’s reaction times and their ability to reduce their speed before a collision. The increase in speed cameras will help enforce speed limits and lower the probability of speed-related accidents.  

Common Injuries Caused by Motor Vehicle Accidents in Portland, Oregon

Some low-impact accidents only cause minor bruises and a scratch on your car, but as the speed of a vehicle increases, so does the risk of fatal or life-changing injuries. When a person is unable to avoid colliding with another vehicle, the crash can inflict severe damage on both the person and their property. Injuries may include: 

  • Cuts and scrapes
  • Broken bones 
  • Whiplash 
  • Concussion
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Death 

When you suffer injuries due to someone speeding and participating in reckless actions, you have the right to seek compensation for the medical fees, treatment costs, and other financial losses you incurred because of the accident. For dependable representation, contact an experienced car accident attorney that can defend your rights and privileges. 

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Portland, Oregon Today

Speed enforcement cameras will not completely stop accidents, but hopefully, they’ll reduce the likelihood of severe, debilitating harm inflicted. However, if you find yourself in a situation where a negligent driver disregarded your safety and caused serious injuries, contact Rizk Law lawyers for reliable and motivated legal representation. 

Our team has extensive combined experience and offers a client-focused approach. With a free, no-risk consultation, we can help offer reliable and honest guidance about your claim. Our car accident lawyers understand that financial responsibilities can be challenging when you’re facing medical fees and other financial barriers, so our services are provided on a contingency fee basis with no upfront fee. 

For a free consultation, call (503) 245-5677 or fill out our contact form.