How Oregon’s Winter Weather Causes a Surge of Pedestrian Accidents

Posted on behalf of RizkLaw on Dec 21, 2021 in Pedestrian Accidents

Throughout the year, Oregon suffers from many fatalities and accidents. The Oregon Public Broadcasting System (OPB) reports that this year has the highest number of pedestrian deaths in 49 years, with 26 pedestrian fatalities. As we continue into the winter season, law enforcement expects to see a rise in traffic accidents due to weather changes.

There are many dangers during the cold season in Oregon, and it’s vital that residents and visitors take precautions when driving. However, some individuals disregard the rules of the road and drive recklessly. In some cases, these drivers can cause severe accidents and injuries to pedestrians. If you suffer injuries from an accident due to someone’s negligence, contact a dependable pedestrian attorney as soon as possible.

5 Ways Oregon’s Winter Weather Increases Pedestrian Accidents

Driving conditions can become challenging for Oregon drivers, so it’s crucial that everyone on the road take precautions to avoid causing severe accidents. When individuals carelessly drive on the road during the winter, they put themselves and others at risk. Consider the below examples of why winter weather causes an increase in pedestrian accidents:

Hasty Driving

When there are poor weather conditions, many drivers become anxious and want to get home or to their destination as fast as possible. Unfortunately, they often become hasty and increase their speeds, leading to many accidents.

Reduced Visibility

Whether it’s snowing or a driver’s windshield is covered in ice, the weather can cause difficult conditions. It’s a driver’s responsibility to take the time to prepare for these occurrences or pull over until it is safe to drive again.

Slippery Roads

The cold weather can make Oregon’s roads slippery and challenging to drive on, but drivers should prepare for these challenging conditions. In areas where pedestrians are often dwelling, the driver should slow their speed and watch for people in or near their path.

Altered Walking Conditions

If a section of a pedestrian’s bath is blocked by ice or some winter condition, you may see more pedestrians taking a different path. This may lead to more people in one specific location and individuals changing their path. Keeping an eye out for these changes is necessary for drivers to keep everyone safe.

Shorter Daylight Hours

During the winter months, the days become shorter, and nighttime comes faster than some individuals expect. Drivers need to prepare for these changes by making sure that their headlights are working properly, and they remember that some pedestrians are still out when the sun goes down.

While the cold season causes more challenges for drivers, individuals on the road have a responsibility to continue following the rules and staying aware of the dangers. Pedestrian accidents are serious and can easily cause severe injuries. If you’re in an accident with a negligent driver, contact experienced attorneys as soon as possible.

Seek Assistance from a Reliable Pedestrian Accident Lawyer at Rizk Law

As a pedestrian, an accident with a motor vehicle can cause life-threatening injuries due to the individual’s vulnerability. Depending on the vehicle and the speed, you can suffer extreme losses and damages to yourself and your property. You have the right to seek compensation for the losses you incur in an accident.

Working with a Rizk Law lawyer can allow you to hold the other person accountable for the damages you suffer. With years of experience and dedication to our clients, we are confident in our ability to protect and advocate for your rights and interests. Our main goal is to make sure you have the representation you deserve and need to have the best possible outcome for your case.

Call (503) 245-5677 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.

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