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Are pedestrian and cyclist deaths less common now than before?

On Behalf of | Oct 4, 2016 | Pedestrian Accidents |

Across the nation, cyclist and pedestrian deaths increased every year between 2009 and 2012. The nation saw 5,469 deaths in 2012, even though the number of vehicle accidents has been declining, according to federal data. For those injured, personal injury attorneys can help them file a claim, and families have the option to pursue wrongful death claims if a loved one was killed.

Has Oregon seen more crashes and fatalities compared to the nation?

Oregon has been seeing an uptick in fatalities, but the uptick followed national trends. The seriousness of the accidents is why the Safer People, Safer Streets initiative was launched. The September 2014 update of the initiative discusses several things from what causes crashes to where they’re most likely to occur. For instance, 73 percent of pedestrian deaths were located in urban areas where people are more likely to be in contact with vehicles. Urban areas also have stores and shops closer together, which means more people walk or bike.

Where are the most dangerous areas of the roads or cities?

Mid-block areas are most dangerous, since that’s where drivers are least likely to be on the lookout for cyclists. In 2012, 60 percent of cyclist deaths took place outside of intersections. Other factors include the area’s infrastructure; skinnier streets, a lack or sidewalks and a lack of bike paths can impact the number of people who become involved in collisions.

What time do most accidents take place?

Timing plays a role in collisions as well. Between 4 and 8 p.m., bicyclists are most likely to be involved in a fatal crash. Pedestrian crashes, on the other hand, are more likely to occur after dark between the hours of 8 p.m. and midnight.

Source: OregonLive, “Where in the Portland area have pedestrians and cyclists been killed? (Interactive Map),” Fedor Zarkhin, accessed Oct. 04, 2016

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