Are You Familiar With Portland's High Crash Network?

Are You Driving in Portland's High Crash Network Streets?

Driving in Portland’s High Crash Network is dangerous, as seen in the rise in traffic deaths since 2020. [1] Speed and impaired driving are the major contributing factors for traffic accidents in Portland’s High Crash Network. [2]

Portland’s High Crash Network comprises almost 30 streets and intersections, especially in East Portland. [2] These areas are identified based on factors such as the number of crashes, severity of injuries, and proximity to vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists. The high number of traffic accidents within this area poses a substantial risk to drivers and pedestrians alike.

Major Streets and Intersections in Portland's High Crash Network

Portland’s High Crash Network consists of several streets and intersections that have consistently high crash rates. Some of the dangerous intersections and streets include the following: [3]

N/NE Marine Drive
SE Powell Boulevard
Lombard St
NE Columbia Blvd
Sandy Blvd
SE Division Street
SE 122nd & Stark
NE Halsey St
W/E Burnside Street
NE/SE 82nd Avenue

Portland's Vision Zero Statistics

Portland’s Vision Zero initiative aims to eliminate fatal crashes and serious injuries on the city’s roadways. Here is an overview of the current Vision Zero statistics in Portland:

High Crash Network represents 8% of Portland’s streets; unfortunately, 62% of all traffic accidents in the city happen in these areas. [1]

According to Vision Zero statistics, in 2023, 69 traffic fatalities were reported in Portland, with 24 of them being pedestrian fatalities. Three-fourths of these accidents occurred within the High Crash Networks. [1]

Speed was cited as the cause of 42 percent of traffic deaths that occurred between 2017 and 2021. [1]

Speeding and Vision Zero in Portland

Speeding cameras play a significant role in the Vision Zero initiative in Portland. These cameras are strategically placed in areas with a high frequency of speeding violations and traffic incidents, including:

SE Division St. near 150th Ave.
NE Marine Dr. near 133th Ave.
NE Marine Dr. near 24th Ave.
SE 122nd Ave near Reedway St.
Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy & 36th

By utilizing automated speed enforcement through cameras, Portland aims to address speed-related risks, particularly in areas with a history of high crash rates. The cameras capture images or video footage of vehicles exceeding the speed limits, and citations are issued to the registered owners of the vehicles.

Safer Speed Limits in Portland's High-Crash Network

The implementation of safer speed limits in the high crash network is a significant step towards improving road safety in Portland. Recent speed limit reductions have been implemented to address the issue of high crash rates in certain areas.

The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) plays a vital role in managing speeds on Portland streets. They analyze crash data, identify high crash locations, and conduct engineering evaluations to determine appropriate speed limits.

For example, a pedestrian hit at 20 mph has a 10% chance of severe injury or death, while a pedestrian hit at 40 mph has an 80% chance of severe injury or death.

Locations where PBOT reduced the speed limits in the last year:

25 to 30 mph

SE 92nd Avenue from 91st Place to Reedway Street
SW Huber Street from Capitol Highway to 35th Avenue

Locations where PBOT recently received approval from the Oregon Department of Transportation to reduce the speed limit in the future:

30 to 35 mph

SE 162nd Avenue from Stark Street to Powell Boulevard

25 to 30 mph

NE Fremont Avenue from SE 102nd to 122nd avenues
SE 92nd Avenue from Lincoln Street to 91st Place
SW 62nd Avenue from Taylors Ferry Road to Pomona Street
N Argyle Street/Way from Interstate Avenue to Columbia Boulevard

20 to 30 mph

N Mississippi Avenue from Fremont to Cook streets

By implementing safer speed limits in the high-crash network, PBOT and ODOT aim to reduce the severity and frequency of crashes, ultimately improving road safety for all users.

How to Protect Yourself While Driving in Portland's High Crash Network?

To protect yourself while driving in Portland’s high crash network, consider the following measures:

Obey the Speed Limit: Stick to the posted speed limits, especially in areas prone to accidents. Safe speeds give you more time to react to unexpected situations.
Avoid Distractions: Keep your focus solely on the road. Avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in activities that divert your attention from driving.
Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Be vigilant and watch out for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly at intersections and crosswalks. Yield to them and give them ample space.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. It allows you enough time to react and brake in case of sudden stops.
Use Turn Signals: Indicate your intentions by using your turn signals well in advance. This helps other drivers anticipate your actions and reduces the chances of collisions.
Be Aware of High Crash Network Areas: Familiarize yourself with the high-crash network areas in Portland to be extra cautious when driving through these locations. Be prepared for potential hazards and adjust your driving accordingly.
Avoid Aggressive Driving: Practice patience and avoid aggressive behaviors such as tailgating or excessive speeding. Aggressive driving increases the risk of accidents and endangers everyone on the road.
Stay Sober: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired driving severely impacts your judgment, coordination, and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
Buckle Up: Always wear your seatbelt, and ensure that all passengers are properly restrained. Seatbelts are vital in preventing serious injuries in the event of a crash.
Stay Updated on Traffic Safety: Stay informed about traffic safety guidelines, road conditions, and any updates or changes to the High Crash Network areas. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and navigate safer routes.