Portland Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Fighting to Keep Our City Safe for Pedestrians

Pedestrians deserve to walk safely in Portland. When a pedestrian accident happens, it is only right to pursue legal action against the negligent driver so that the injured pedestrian can avoid financial hardships. At Pacific Cascade Legal, we proudly represent injured pedestrians throughout Portland and the surrounding region. If you were hit while walking down the street, reach out to us to see what options are available to set things right.

On This Page:

• What Are Some Common Types of Pedestrian Accidents?
• Contributory Factors in Pedestrian Accidents
• What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?
• What Are Some Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents?
• What Damages Can I Recover If I Was Hit as a Pedestrian?
• Why Choose Us?

Request an initial consultation with our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys. 

What Are Some Common Types of Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrian accidents can occur in many different situations and due to a variety of mistakes. Our Portland pedestrian accident lawyers handle and investigate all types of crashes. If a negligent or reckless driver hit you, you can trust our team with your claim or lawsuit.

Three locations and types of pedestrian accidents include:

• Crosswalk Accidents: Many pedestrian accidents happen in crosswalks, including both marked crosswalks and those without signals. Distracted drivers may fail to notice people walking, which can cause severe injuries.
• Parking Lot Accidents: Most parking lots have speed limits set at 10 mph or 15 mph due to increased pedestrian activity. Drivers who ignore speed limits or fail to check mirrors and blind spots when entering or exiting a space risk injuring pedestrians unexpectedly.
• Sideswipes: Some pedestrian accidents occur when a driver passes too closely to someone in a parking lot, crosswalk, or along the side of the road. A sideswipe can knock a pedestrian to the ground and cause serious harm.

Contributory Factors in Pedestrian Accidents

Several contributory factors often play a role in pedestrian accidents:

• Driver Negligence: Driver negligence contributes significantly to pedestrian accidents. Speeding, reckless driving, failing to yield the right of way, and running red lights often result in collisions involving pedestrians.
• Poor Pedestrian Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure increases risks for pedestrians. Insufficient crosswalks, poorly designed intersections, missing sidewalks, and a lack of proper lighting make safe navigation challenging.
• Impaired Visibility: Low visibility conditions, such as darkness, fog, or heavy rain, raise the risk of accidents. Both drivers and pedestrians may struggle to see each other in time to prevent a collision.
• Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, putting pedestrians at greater risk for accidents.

Many pedestrians today engage with smartphones, listen to music, or focus on other distractions. These activities may draw attention away from the environment, making accidents more likely. Stay alert—especially when crossing streets or moving through busy areas—to reduce your risk of a pedestrian accident.

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?

• Prioritize Your Safety: The first priority after a pedestrian accident is your safety. Move to a safe place, away from traffic or other hazards. If you are seriously injured or cannot move, wait for medical professionals to arrive.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you think your injuries are minor, seek immediate medical care. Not all injuries are evident at first, and a thorough assessment will document your condition and support any future claim.
• Contact Law Enforcement: Notify authorities about the accident by calling the local police or emergency services. The official report and any witness statements will provide important documentation when dealing with insurance companies and litigation.
• Gather Information: Collect as much information from the scene as possible. Obtain the driver’s name, phone number, and insurance details. Record contact information for any witnesses. Take photos or videos of the scene, visible injuries, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
• Preserve Evidence: Preserving evidence is critical for establishing liability. Avoid moving objects or vehicles involved in the accident until police arrive. If possible, try to obtain any available surveillance footage of the incident.
• Refrain from Admitting Fault: Limit conversations about the accident to the police and your lawyer. Do not admit fault or say anything that could be misinterpreted, and provide only factual information to authorities and other parties involved.
• Call Pacific Cascade Legal: To protect your rights and receive support during the legal process, consult with a pedestrian accident attorney at Pacific Cascade Legal. We can help you understand your options, communicate with insurers, and pursue your claim.

Understanding Oregon Pedestrian Laws & Right-of-Way Rules

Oregon law grants pedestrians significant rights and protections, but it also assigns responsibilities to ensure everyone’s safety. Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 811.028 requires drivers to stop and remain stopped for any pedestrian in a marked or unmarked crosswalk, which covers almost every intersection in Portland. Unlike some states, Oregon considers every corner a crosswalk, even if there’s no drawn line or signal. If a driver fails to stop for a person crossing at an intersection, they can face citations or greater liability in a civil claim. Local enforcement in Portland works to educate drivers and sometimes runs periodic sting operations at problem intersections to encourage compliance.

Pedestrians also carry responsibilities. Oregon prohibits jaywalking and instructs pedestrians to obey traffic signals where present. When crossing outside a crosswalk or against a signal, an injured pedestrian may share some responsibility for the accident, which can affect compensation under Oregon’s modified comparative negligence law. Safety campaigns in Portland regularly remind people walking to make eye contact with drivers and stay aware of changing signals. By understanding local right-of-way expectations, both drivers and pedestrians help prevent needless injuries and confusion following a collision.

What Are Some Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents?

The weight and force of a vehicle far outweigh a person’s ability to absorb an impact. That difference is why pedestrian injuries can be so severe. Most of the force of a collision impacts the pedestrian, with little damage occurring to the vehicle.

We can assist with pedestrian accidents that involve the following injuries and more:

• Broken bones: A pedestrian struck by a vehicle may suffer multiple fractures. Improper healing can lead to disabilities, pain, and ongoing challenges.
• Spine injuries: An impact that throws a pedestrian to the ground may cause spinal injuries or even paralysis in the worst cases.
• Head injuries: A traumatic brain injury or other head trauma can create lasting complications, such as memory loss or speech difficulties.
• Permanent scarring: Road rash from pedestrian accidents can leave permanent scars. Highly visible scars on the face or arms can affect a person’s self-image indefinitely.

What Damages Can I Recover If I Was Hit as a Pedestrian?

Pedestrian accident cases can result in major financial losses and damages. When you deserve compensation that could amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars or more, choose an experienced law firm. Trust Pacific Cascade Legal to handle your case. Our history of major verdicts and settlements for clients stands as proof of our commitment. We would be honored to discuss whether we can do the same for you.

We can fight for compensation that covers the following:

• Medical treatment costs: Your greatest financial losses may come from required medical treatments—both current and future. We will work to ensure the liable party covers those costs in full.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working or limit your earning potential, you deserve compensation for lost current and future income.
• Pain and suffering: People injured in pedestrian accidents in Portland may demand non-economic damages, such as those for physical pain and emotional distress.

Our attorneys also assist with wrongful death claims after a pedestrian accident. If you lost a loved one to a driver’s actions, we can represent your interests so you can focus on your family.

Why Choose Pacific Cascade Legal for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?

At Pacific Cascade Legal, we recognize that being involved in a pedestrian accident can change your life. Our attorneys provide compassionate and effective representation to help you navigate your case. 

Here’s why many people choose us:

• Experience in Local Laws: Our attorneys understand Oregon’s pedestrian laws and regulations, ensuring your case receives informed guidance.
• Personalized Attention: We treat each client as an individual. Our team communicates with you directly and keeps you informed throughout the process.
• Proven Track Record: We have secured substantial settlements for clients, allowing them to focus on recovery while we handle the details.
• No Upfront Fees: We accept cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay only when we secure a recovery for you, removing the stress of upfront legal bills.
• Comprehensive Support: From providing medical referrals to helping you understand your rights, we support you throughout your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the time limit to file a pedestrian accident claim in Oregon?

In Oregon, you generally have two years from the date of the pedestrian accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering compensation. Take prompt action if you are injured.

Will I still have a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, Oregon uses a modified comparative negligence standard. You can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced according to your percentage of responsibility.

What types of compensation might I receive for my injuries?

Compensation from a pedestrian accident claim in Oregon may include repayment for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, diminished earning capacity, and expenses related to long-term care or home modifications. Each case is unique, so these categories vary based on your injuries.

Get Legal Counsel Now – Call Our Firm

You are not just a client at Pacific Cascade Legal—you’re a neighbor in need. Let us stand up for you if you were hurt in a pedestrian accident in Portland. We are here to advocate on your behalf, just as we would for our own families.

Contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Portland pedestrian accident attorney.