Mary Waseko Kasubuchi, 93, was killed in a Portland car accident after she was struck while crossing a road. According to a KGW news report, Kasubuchi was attempting to get across SE Cesar Chavez Boulevard at the intersection of Powell the evening of February 24, 2010 when the fatal pedestrian accident occurred. Kasubuchi died at the scene. No charges have been filed yet in connection with this accident. The intersection of Cesar Chavez and Powell is "notoriously dangerous," according to the news report.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mary Waseko Kasubuchi for their heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your prayers.

Portland Accident Statistics

According to the Oregon Department of Transportation's (ODOT) crash statistics, 11 fatalities and 154 injuries were reported as a result of pedestrian accidents in Portland in 2007. During the same period in Portland, car accidents claimed 34 lives and caused 5,087 injuries.

Was This a Dangerous Roadway?

This news report does not offer much information about how or why this pedestrian was hit. Based on the information, Kasubuchi was crossing at the intersection. The question is whether she was crossing against the light. Who had the right-of-way in this case? Also, what makes this intersection "notoriously dangerous" other than the fact that it is a busy intersection? Are there any visual obstacles at this location that prevents motorists from spotting pedestrians in the crosswalk? Is this intersection well-lit? Are there any other dangerous conditions on this roadway or intersection, which may have caused this pedestrian accident?

Liability Issues

If there is in fact, a dangerous condition on this roadway, then the city of Portland or the governmental entity in charge of maintaining that roadway could be held liable for the injuries that occur at that location. In this particular pedestrian accident, I trust officials are also looking into whether there was negligence on the part of the motorist as well. If that was the case, the driver could also be held responsible. In such cases, victims' families would be well-advised to consult an Oregon personal injury lawyer, who will ensure that their rights are protected. Please remember that any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a governmental agency in Portland must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.

We are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not a fault" persons named in this article and their family members.