As the year 2023 unfolded, the city of Portland experienced a stark reality with a surge in accident fatalities that marked it as a truly distressing period. Portland registered its highest count of traffic fatalities in thirty years.
Portland and Statistics
Portland is situated in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and is the largest city in the state of Oregon. Portland stands as a dynamic metropolis with a diverse population.
As of the most recent data, Portland’s population hovers around 641,162. The number of fatalities involving incidents on the streets of Portland is at an all-time high.
Here is a list of some concerning fatality statistics in the region.
1. There were 75 traffic-related fatalities in 2023, a jump from 70 in 2022.
2. In 2023, out of the 75 fatalities reported in Portland, 35 were car/truck accidents.
3. As per data found, 13 out of 75 fatalities were caused due to speeding, and 9 were due to alcohol.
4. Nearly three-quarters of pedestrian fatalities on Portland streets happen during nighttime.
5. Fifty-five percent of pedestrians killed were experiencing homelessness at the time.
6. Certain streets were responsible for 62% of the reported crashes.
7. Black and indigenous community members experienced traffic crash fatalities at a rate approximately double their representation in the population.
8. Males ages 26 to 55 are over-represented in traffic deaths.
9. 50% of fatal crashes happen on wide streets (4 or more lanes), which comprise less than 5% of Portland’s streets.
In 2023, there were 75 traffic fatalities, marking an increase from 70 fatalities recorded in 2022.
Oregon saw an increase in traffic fatalities in 2023, with 75 reported incidents compared to 70 in 2022. This data highlights the importance of prioritizing road safety measures and implementing strategies to prevent accidents statewide. [1]
Among the 75 fatalities Portland saw in 2023, 35 occurred in car and truck accidents.
Out of the total 75 fatalities, pedestrian accidents accounted for 29 incidents, car and truck accidents contributed to 35 fatalities and motorcycle crashes resulted in 11 deaths. [1]
Of the 75 fatalities, 13 were attributed to speeding, while 9 were the result of alcohol influence, specifically DUI incidents.
Among the 75 fatalities, 6 resulted from hit-and-run incidents, 9 were caused by alcohol influence, 4 were classified as manslaughter cases, and 13 were attributed to speeding. [1]
Close to 75% of pedestrian fatalities on Portland's streets occur during nighttime.
Oregon faces significant challenges with pedestrian safety, as nearly three-quarters of pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries occur during nighttime on Portland streets. This alarming statistic shows the inadequacy of existing safety measures and highlights the state’s failure to provide adequate infrastructure and lighting, especially in urban areas. [2]
Improving pedestrian facilities and implementing better lighting systems are critical steps Oregon must take to address this pressing issue and enhance pedestrian safety statewide.
Fifty-five percent of the 75 pedestrians who were killed in 2023 were experiencing homelessness
This statistic sheds light on the vulnerability of homeless individuals to pedestrian accidents, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and support systems to address their safety concerns. [2]
Enhancing outreach programs and improving access to safe pedestrian infrastructure can protect the most vulnerable members of the community from such tragic incidents.
Sixty-two percent of the reported crashes were attributed to specific streets
The High Crash Network in Portland comprises the 30 streets and 30 intersections with the highest occurrences of pedestrian, bicycle, and motor vehicle crashes.
Despite constituting only 8% of Portland’s streets, this network was responsible for 62% of traffic-related fatalities between 2018 and 2022. [3]
Black and indigenous community members suffered traffic crash fatalities at a rate roughly twice their proportion in the population
Recent data from Portland reveals that Black and Indigenous community members experienced traffic crash fatalities at a rate approximately double their representation in the population.
This disparity underscores systemic issues and inequalities within transportation safety, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions and equitable policies to address the root causes and ensure the safety of all community members on the road.
Males aged 26 to 55 are overrepresented in traffic fatalities compared to other demographic groups.
Males between the ages of 26 and 55 face a disproportionate risk of traffic fatalities, exhibiting a higher prevalence of road accidents compared to other demographic cohorts. [3]
Half of fatal crashes occur on wide streets (4 or more lanes), which make up less than 5% of Portland's streets.
Half of Portland’s fatal crashes transpire on wide streets, characterized by four or more lanes, despite these streets representing less than 5% of the city’s total street infrastructure.
This statistic shows the disproportionate risk associated with wide thoroughfares and emphasizes the need for targeted safety measures to mitigate fatalities on these roadways.
Goldberg & Loren
If you’ve been in an accident, you need expert assistance. Goldberg & Loren, personal injury attorneys in Portland, offer their experience to help you. Call today to secure the rightful compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Sources:
[1] Portland Traffic Fatality Tracker. (n.d.). BikePortland. https://bikeportland.org/fatality-tracker
[2] Portland Vision Zero Action Plan Update 2023-25. (2023, December 12). Portland.gov. https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/portland-vision-zero-action-plan-update-2023-25#toc-portland-crash-trends
[3] Deadly traffic crash demographics. (n.d.). Portland.gov. https://www.portland.gov/transportation/vision-zero/deadly-traffic-crash-demographics
