At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our pedestrian accident attorneys in Portland understand the catastrophic nature of these crashes and how they change the lives of the injured and their families for months, years, or even permanently.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrian accident deaths throughout the country last year reached a thirty-year high, totaling 6,283 fatalities, 69 of which occurred in Oregon.
At this tragic rate, 17% of all traffic fatalities were pedestrians, with one person on foot killed every 88 minutes across the U.S.
Pedestrians are the most vulnerable people on the road, especially when drivers are distracted behind the wheel or are speeding through residential neighborhoods where kids are at play.
When a negligent driver hits a pedestrian, there is very little chance the person on foot is going to exit the crash without serious injuries. If this happened to you or someone you love, our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys can discuss your case during a free, confidential assessment today, so you can learn more about your right to pursue financial recovery and make informed decisions about how to get the compensation you deserve.
An Overview of Portland, OR Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Pedestrian safety matters. Pedestrians in all neighborhoods of Portland should be able to use sidewalks and cross streets without fear that they are putting themselves in harm’s way. Sadly, too many drivers fail to take proper care around pedestrians. Further, our city’s infrastructure is not always as safe as it should be for pedestrians.
The data is clear: Pedestrians are overrepresented in traffic fatalities. According to a report from the City of Portland, there were 142 pedestrians hurt and 27 killed in 2021 alone. That is the most recent year for which the city has comprehensive data. While the number of pedestrian collisions in Portland has dropped somewhat over the past decade, which is certainly good news, there remains a long way to go to make our city safe.
What are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Portland, Oregon?
While there are many causes of pedestrian accident injuries and deaths, the primary cause is distracted driving.
When drivers are looking away from the road, it is impossible to see pedestrians crossing the street or entering their parked vehicles. While most drivers believe a quick glance at their phone or attending to a child in the backseat will cause no harm, the average time it takes to send or receive a text message or divert your attention to another passenger can change someone’s life forever.
Other common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
Drivers disregarding traffic or weather conditions
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Exiting and entering parking lots or structures without acknowledging their surroundings
Failing to obey traffic signs and signals
Failing to stop at a pedestrian right-of-way
Failing to stop for school buses
Failing to yield to crosswalks
Lack of sleep or exhaustion
Making improper turns, including illegal U-turns
Speeding or reckless driving
Vehicles traveling in reverse without checking their surroundings
When drivers are not focused on the task of operating their vehicles, pedestrian accidents can occur in seconds, causing horrific injuries or even death. If you or your family has suffered damages from driver negligence, contact our Portland pedestrian accident lawyers today to learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward with confidence.
What are the Most Common Portland Pedestrian Accident Injuries?
Emergency departments throughout the U.S. treated 129,000 pedestrian accident victims for non-fatal crash-related injuries last year, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Of those, the most common pedestrian accident injuries include:
Cuts, scrapes, and bruises to the head, face, and body
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a pedestrian crash, our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys may be able to help you pursue the negligent driver for financial recovery.
Be Proactive: Steps to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents in Portland
The best way to deal with a pedestrian accident is to prevent it from ever occurring in the first place. Here are some steps that you can take to prevent a pedestrian accident in Portland:
Obey Traffic Signals: Pedestrians should always wait for the walk signal and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Notably, drivers must respect pedestrian signals and stop lines. Their failure to do so is negligence.
Actively Work to Enhance Visibility: Pedestrians are advised to wear reflective clothing or carry a light when walking at night or in poor weather conditions. As a pedestrian, it is important to make yourself as visible as possible.
Use Designated Crossings: Pedestrians should always cross streets using crosswalks or intersections. Avoid jaywalking. Jaywalking not only increases the risk of accidents but is also against the law in many areas.
Stay Alert: Pedestrians should avoid distractions. Things like smartphones, loud music, or AirPods can take attention off the road. Although drivers have a duty to watch out for the safety of pedestrians, it is also crucial that pedestrians protect themselves.
What Type of Compensation Can I Pursue After a Pedestrian Accident Injury?
All personal injury circumstances are unique, and each case must be evaluated by the facts and evidence surrounding the collision.
Once we investigate the crash and your injuries, your recovery compensation may include:
Short and long-term medical costs
Medical equipment and prescription expenses
Therapy and rehabilitation costs
At-home, around-the-clock care
Lost wages for the injured and family members who assume their care
Inability to return to work after the accident
Temporary or permanent disability
How Can You Prove Liability in a Portland Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Proving liability in a pedestrian accident in Portland requires establishing that the driver’s negligence directly resulted in the crash. Negligence comes in a wide range of different forms and is defined as the failure to exercise reasonable care. For example, a driver who runs a red light and strikes a pedestrian may be held legally responsible for a crash. Every pedestrian accident in Oregon should be thoroughly investigated by a lawyer.
Oregon is a modified comparative negligence state. Each party to a crash can be held liable for his or her share of the blame. For example, imagine that you suffered $40,000 in damages in a pedestrian crash in Portland. However, you were found to be 20% responsible for your own collision. Under Oregon law, you would be legally liable for 20% of your own damages ($8,000), and your recovery would be $32,000.
An Overview of Evidence that Can Be Used in a Pedestrian Crash Claim
Evidence forms the foundation of any successful personal injury claim. Pedestrian accident cases are no exception to the rule. Some of the most notable examples of evidence that you can use to prove negligence in a pedestrian accident claim in Portland include:
Police Report: Ensure that the accident is reported to the police immediately. The police report will contain an officer’s assessment of the accident scene. The police report can be key to proving why the crash happened.
Witness Statements: The testimony of an eyewitness can provide valuable evidence in a pedestrian accident claim. A witness can provide an independent account that helps to prove how and why a crash happened, and if you can, always get their names and contact information.
Surveillance Footage: Injured pedestrians should always check for nearby surveillance cameras that may have captured the accident. Businesses and traffic cameras are potential sources of video footage.
Medical Records: As an injured pedestrian, you should document your injuries with medical treatment and the records associated with the treatment. These records can help to link your injuries directly to the accident.
Is a Driver Always at Fault When Hitting a Pedestrian in Oregon?
No. In Portland, a driver is not always at fault when hitting a pedestrian. Under Oregon law, liability in pedestrian accidents depends on several factors. These are negligence-based pedestrian accident cases. Both drivers and pedestrians are required to follow rules designed to protect their safety and that of others. In Oregon, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections. However, pedestrians also have a duty to act responsibly. They must obey walk signals and other traffic regulations. The at-fault party will be held liable for the collision.
What is the Deadline to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Oregon?
Under Oregon law, most personal injury claims are subject to a two-year statute of limitations. You must file any pedestrian accident lawsuit within two years of the date of the collision with very narrow exceptions. If you wait too long to file the claim, you could miss out on your right to take legal action and recover compensation. Be proactive: Consult with a Portland pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible after any accident.
Partnering With the Right Portland Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Our experienced and dedicated Portland pedestrian accident lawyers team at The Law Offices of Jon Friedman is prepared to pursue the compensation you and your family deserve after suffering injuries caused by someone else’s negligence.
With over 35 years of experience, our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys will accurately assess your case and determine the financial compensation you will require to get your life back on track.
Why Choose a Portland Pedestrian Accident Lawyer From the Law Offices of Jon Friedman?
Were you hurt in a pedestrian collision in Portland? You need compensation to pay your bills and support your family. Taking a proactive approach is a must—but, unfortunately, you cannot rely on any insurance company to look out for your rights or your interests after a serious crash. That is where the team at The Law Offices of Jon Friedman can make a difference. With decades of experience as shown by our client testimonials along with proven case results, we are prepared to go the extra mile for injured victims. Along with other things, our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys are ready to:
Offer a free consultation about your case.
Investigate your pedestrian crash in Portland—gathering evidence to prove fault.
Handle the settlement negotiations with the insurance companies; and
Take aggressive legal action to fight for justice and the maximum financial compensation.
Contact Our Portland Pedestrian Accident Attorneys For A Free Consultation
If you have been hurt or lost a loved one in a pedestrian crash, please contact our Multnomah County and Portland personal injury attorneys today by calling 503-242-1440 to schedule a free, confidential assessment of your claim.
Jon and his staff were incredibly professional, respectful and fought hard for me and my case. Not only did they help me navigate this incredibly complicated process but I felt that Jon and the people he works with legitimately took my wellbeing seriously and made sure I understood and was on board at every juncture. Regardless of the roadblocks that...
- Mike V.
Mr. Friedman is an excellent attorney and his guidance and responsiveness was not only helpful but above and beyond the service I expected. Jon and his team are outstanding and highly recommend.
- Aaron L.
When I first contacted Jon Friedman, he was very patient and listened to every word I told him about my fall and injuries. He asked questions and seemed genuinely concerned about me and asked if I had been seen for my injuries. I had been seen initially, however, I didn't have insurance to continue treatment, so Jon helped in guiding...
- Jena L.
A friend of mine recommended Jon, after hearing I had been in an auto accident. From our first phone call, through the consultation, all the way to the end, Jon was professional, affable and on top of everything. He urged me to advocate for myself when visiting doctors to make sure I received the proper care and frequently checked in...
- Cher M.
I was involved in a motorcycle accident back in 2019 and needed legal council to proceed towards addressing financial hardships and guidance. I looked up several lawyers online and Jon was the one who I felt had the knowledge, experience, and personality that could really help with my case. Jon was with me from the first day I called him...
- Bradley L.
I highly recommend Jon Friedman to anyone who is looking for legal representation. After getting injured in an accident, I needed someone who would provide guidance in an unfamiliar and extremely stressful to me situation. I couldn't have asked for a better representative and advisor than Jon. He expertly took over the unpleasant business of dealing with multiple agencies and...
- Natalya W.
Jon & his staff were straight-forward, speedy & reliable when helping us win our personal injury case. Jon was willing to take the extra time needed to explain each step in the legal process, in terms we could understand. My case revolved around my young daughter, whom Jon treated delicately & with a father's sensitivity. I truly feel that protecting...
- Erin B.
Care and Compassion may be unusual adjectives to describe an attorney, but combine that with Expertise and Advocacy, and you have Jon Friedman! Jon is an incredible lawyer who knows the ins and outs of Personal Injury cases. Jon is diligent in his advocacy of client rights and is invested in the outcome of his clients. I was in an...
- Steph H.
Excellent lawyer, but even better person. Jon came very highly recommended, but still managed to exceed all expectations. He provided expert legal advice in connection with a motor vehicle accident I was involved in that ultimately required neck surgery. Jon is an open and honest, no-nonsense lawyer that truly cares about his clients. He was extremely responsive, always available, and...
- P Hayes
Most of the times there is nothing good you could say about an accident, however, in my case there was one good thing and it was that I got to have the guidance and support of this Lawyer, Jon. I did not at any point feel alone throughout this whole 2 year process. His professionalism was impeccable at every moment....
- Sandra J.
Jon was a huge help in navigating the ins and outs of my car accident. I would retain his legal services if needed in the future and recommend him. Thanks again Jon for all the help.
- Thomas
When I was seriously injured in a pedestrian vs. automobile accident I didnt know what to do. The medical bills were going to be stacking up, which I couldn't afford, and I did nothing wrong. I did some searching and found Jon. After meeting with him he immediately took charge of my case and everything was taken care of from...
- Tony L.
Thank you Jon for helping me.
- Jeanne G.
Jon is great! He has helped my family through some tough times. He is a tireless advocate and won't give up until he can find a solution. Jon communicates every step of the way through the legal process and always involved us in all the major decisions. He helped us navigate the confusing legal world. We would highly recommend him...
- Liz K.
Jon is amazing. So much so that I have hired him TWICE. Being in an accident SUCKS. The insurance company-- even your own company-- is out for them, and them only. You need someone to fight for you. That's Jon. He doesn't just sit back and collect... he WORKS for you. Fights for you. And is so proactive. He hires...
- Katie B.
Jon Friedman is very good at what he does. Jon was very patient, professional, and responsive when he helped me with a recent MVA. Jon explained the process well and made sure I always involved and informed. I highly recommend Jon Friedman and would used him again in a heartbeat. Thank you Jon!
- Anonymous
Jon was caring, knowledgable, and worked hard to represent me with my injury claim. Would certainly recommend him to others. I now have peace of mind and can go on with my life. Dorothy
- Dorothy M.
Jon was the best support I could have had through two long years. Sometimes I'd just want to give up. He'd stop, explain what I had to do and why; the process wouldn't look so daunting. I've been around personal injury cases for decades. I've never seen a lawyer who is better at helping people through the parts of the...
- Darlene W.
Over 25 years ago my husband was in an accident. Jon won him an outstanding settlement. Fast forward. I am in an accident. We didn't know who to call until we remembered Jon. I called him and once again he came through. We just settled my claim last week and it was everything that we had asked for. I would...
- Lorrie
I didn't realize I needed the services of an attorney until it was almost too late to make a claim. Jon made sure everything was completed quickly and smoothly and his compassion really made it less stressful for me. He was very clear in guiding me through the insurance and legal processes and thanks to Jon, I have a settlement...
- Maya K.
I would recommend Jon Friedman to anyone! He exceeded all of my expectations and helped me obtain a generous settlement. I was involved in a motor vehicle accident that required 2 surgeries on my neck. Jon helped me every step of the way. I would have been lost without his expertise. Jon treated me as a individual and not "just...
- Michele J.
Mr. Friedman cuts to the chase and lets you know up front exactly what is going on and if you have a valid issue. He is dependable, follows through with his promises, calls in assistance when needed, and is forthright and fair in conclusion. I give him 5 stars because he earned 5 stars. I highly recommend Jon. Thank you.
- Jan N.
If you are looking for an attorney to represent you to the fullest... I will admit that John Friedman is the lawyer you are looking for! Yes there are a lot of lawyers out there, but will they bend over backwards for you? Jon will! He translate and put things in writing to where "YOU" can understand it. The insurance...
- Asia V.
My family will forever be grateful to John for his kind and persevering help for me after my injury. It is very lonely and scary to recover and rebuild your life after a major injury. Having John as my advocate gave me hope and allowed me to focus on getting healthy once again. I was impressed at John's abilities to...
- Patty M.
I have known Jon Friedman for twenty years and never thought the occasion would happen where I would need his services...but as life goes I was involved in a serious accident and thought that I could handle the insurance company claims adjustor and all the pressure from the physical healing, work, and negotiations. I was in way over my head...
- Brian B.
If there was a single highlight to being in a car accident, it was being able to work with Jon Friedman. Jon was referred to me by friend of mine after I was involved in a fairly bad car accident. Jon went above and beyond to make sure that I was comfortable, taken care of, and got everything I deserved....
- Geoff S.
I didn't want to hire a personal injury attorney but the car insurance company was giving me the run around and didn't even want to pay my medical bills. So I called around and found this place he has been honest, upfront with the whole process and I would recommend him to anyone who has been injured in the Portland...
- James J.
It was a pleasure meeting and working with you. No words my thanks. I appreciate everything you have done. Thank you for caring about me as one of your clients. That’s special and hard to find. You are one of a kind. Also, thank you for being straight forward and honest with me. You treated me like I’m a someone,...
- Leeann B.
Dear Jon Friedman I want to thank you so much for obtaining a VERY satisfactory settlement in my accident injury case. I felt I was well represented by you! Your constant communication made me feel that I was your first priority, though I realize you had a large case load with other clients. As a manager in a large organization...
- Michael
A friend referred me to see Jon Friedman at a very low point in my life. Three months earlier I’d been hit in two auto accidents within 20 days. I thought, initially, that the pain I was experiencing afterward was a matter of muscle sprains and that if I saw a chiropractor, the pain would go away within a month...
- Jeannie H.
Jon Friedman helped me to an extent I could never have expected.I was hurt in a car accident. My initial attorney came well recommended but was frequently unavailable and was not communicating with me about very important issues. It was very stressful and I felt that I was on my own.That changed when I found and consulted with Jon Friedman....
- Michael T.
In 2010, while waiting at a signal light, our car was ‘rear-ended’, resulting in its total loss. We sustained severe injuries to multiple body areas, including the need for a hip replacement. We were referred to Jon Friedman, attorney, to guide us through the complicated process of MVA litigation. From our initial meeting we realized Mr. Friedman was a patient...
- Dorothy and Hap S.
I was involved in an auto accident on Jan,6,2013. I found Jon Friedman online or maybe by fate. I personally had no car insurance but the person that wrecked my truck did. I did not know that their insurance would cover me. I had extensive medical bills but my personal health care provider also did not cover auto accidents. Jon...
- Carl B.
Jon was so wonderful to work with. He was always available to answer my questions and concerns in a way that I was able to understand. Jon is a straight shooter and definitely someone you’d want in your corner to ensure that you are not taken advantage of. Jon is very compassionate, caring and very good at what he does....
- The Josephs
After my car accident in May 2009; I was referred to Jon Friedman Attorney; I am very thankful for that referral. Jon worked on my case everyday for many, many months. It was not easy at times & I had many, many questions for him during my case. Each time I asked a question, he had an answer; if not...
- Caroline
Attorney Jon Friedman has all the experience and dedication any person would want in a lawyer. I appreciate his drive and determination. He is focused, and motivated to help.
- A. Connett
Jon – I should have contacted you from the start. After the accident I thought everything would go smoothly and I could handle it on my own. My mistake. I am fortunate that I got in touch with you. Once you had the info you took the ball and ran with it. You had many suggestions that I had not...
- Anonymous
Jon, I found your place page when I google’d for your phone number. As I plan to tell you on the phone when I call: I can’t thank you enough for helping me after my car accident. I am in such a good place now thanks to your help and patient guidance! I was amazed at all of the details...
- Rhonda D.
Jon is passionate about helping his clients AND a pleasure to work with.
- Anonymous
Hello, My name is Dale J. Finding an attorney is never easy or fun, especially if you need one due to a traffic accident. I was in severe pain, not working and starting to build a huge mountain of doctor bills. That’s when a friend of mine said, Go See Jon Friedman !!! He Will Help You !!! During my...
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our pedestrian accident attorneys in 
