Man Hit, Killed While Working on Vehicle on Marquam Bridge
David Belen, age 48, was hit and killed by a DUI Driver on the Marquam Bridge in Portland last month. Belen was outside of his car, on the shoulder of the bridge, when he was hit by a drunk driver at 5:15 am. The auto accident was the 29th fatality on Portland roads in 2022.
The common occurrence of pulling over the to the side of the road can quickly turn deadly when an inattentive (or worse, drunk) driver comes along. When working on a vehicle on the side of the road, including changing a tire, pull as far off the road as possible. Better yet, call roadside assistance or a tow truck. The use of hazard lights or road flairs may help other drivers avoid a collision. Drivers have a duty of care when approaching someone on the side of the road; accidents involving stationary cars and pedestrians on the side of the road can be avoided when drivers simply act in a reasonable, safe manner. Auto accident lawyers can help those injured while changing a tire on the side of the road.