When daylight fades earlier in November, the streets of Portland, Gresham, Clackamas, Troutdale, and Happy Valley become more dangerous for pedestrians. Each year, shorter days and rainy evenings contribute to a noticeable increase in pedestrian injuries across Oregon. Darkness, glare, and wet pavement reduce driver visibility, while distracted driving remains a major cause of preventable tragedies.
At Peterson Law Offices, we’ve represented injured pedestrians since 1991. Our experience handling cases under Oregon’s personal injury and traffic laws has shown one truth again and again — most pedestrian accidents are not “accidents” at all. They result from negligence, and the victims have rights.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Increase in Late Fall
In November, the end of daylight saving time means commuters drive home in near darkness. Combine that with rain and reflective glare from headlights, and pedestrians can disappear into the shadows. Even at low speeds, a collision can cause severe or fatal injuries.
In Portland’s downtown and Eastside corridors, crosswalk visibility decreases dramatically after sunset. Neighborhoods in Gresham and Clackamas County also see a spike in incidents along busy intersections like Burnside, Stark, and Sunnyside Road. These are common conditions for Oregon’s rainy season — and each year, they lead to devastating results.
Several factors make fall particularly dangerous for pedestrians:
- Reduced visibility: Darkness and rain make pedestrians harder to see.
- Driver fatigue: Shorter days can affect alertness and reaction times.
- Distracted driving: Phone use, GPS adjustments, and in-car technology distract drivers when full attention is needed most.
- Poor road lighting or infrastructure: Some intersections lack adequate illumination or signage.
Pedestrian Rights Under Oregon Law
Oregon law provides strong protections for pedestrians. Under ORS §811.028, drivers must stop and remain stopped when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk. That includes marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections — even if there are no painted lines.
Failing to yield is one of the most common causes of crosswalk accidents in Portland. Unfortunately, many drivers are unaware that pedestrians entering an intersection have legal priority once they step off the curb.
A skilled pedestrian injury attorney in Portland can help injured victims prove negligence, gather witness statements, and pursue fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Portland
Beyond reduced visibility, many pedestrian accidents stem from preventable driver behaviors. The most frequent include:
- Failure to yield at crosswalks or stop signs
- Speeding in residential or school zones
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Distracted or drowsy driving
- Improper turns at intersections
Even minor violations can have devastating effects on pedestrians. When a driver’s negligence causes an injury, victims have the right to pursue claims for medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing damages.
Recent Changes to Crosswalk Safety and Enforcement
Portland and surrounding cities have taken steps to improve pedestrian safety. In recent years, local jurisdictions have installed more flashing beacons and “pedestrian crossing ahead” signage. Oregon has also emphasized public awareness campaigns about stopping for pedestrians at intersections.
However, despite these efforts, data shows that crashes remain frequent. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, pedestrian fatalities have risen sharply in recent years, especially during fall and winter. Legal action — and awareness — remain critical parts of prevention.
What to Do If You’re Hit as a Pedestrian
If you’re struck by a vehicle while walking, follow these steps immediately to protect your health and your rights:
- Call 911 — Always report the accident to law enforcement.
- Seek medical attention — Even low-speed impacts can cause hidden injuries like internal bleeding or concussions.
- Document the scene — Take photos of the crosswalk, lighting, and traffic signals.
- Collect driver and witness information — Get names, contact details, and insurance information.
- Contact a personal injury attorney before discussing your case with insurance adjusters.
At Peterson Law Offices, we investigate pedestrian injury claims thoroughly. Our legal team uses accident reconstruction experts, traffic data, and witness testimony to build a clear picture of fault and liability.
Recovering Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident
Victims of pedestrian accidents often face long recoveries. Oregon law allows injured pedestrians to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical bills and hospital stays
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life
Insurance companies may attempt to shift blame by suggesting the pedestrian was partially at fault — for example, by wearing dark clothing or crossing outside of a marked crosswalk. Our firm works to counter these claims with solid evidence and legal advocacy.
Local Experience That Matters
From busy intersections in Troutdale to shopping centers in Happy Valley, pedestrian injuries are a serious public safety issue. Peterson Law Offices understands the local roads, weather conditions, and traffic laws that shape these cases.
Our firm has been advocating for Oregonians for more than 30 years and continues to fight for fair outcomes in every case. Read real client experiences in our testimonials, or contact us directly via our contact page. You can also visit our office for a personal consultation.
Stay Visible. Stay Informed. Stay Protected.
As the nights grow longer, both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for safety. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t assume you must handle it alone. Legal guidance can make all the difference between a denied claim and a fair settlement.
Let Peterson Law Offices help you understand your rights and take decisive action. Our experience in pedestrian injury cases across Oregon ensures that every client receives the personal attention and skilled advocacy they deserve.
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