Portland, Oregon – A federal jury awarded over $1.5 million in damages to a man who was struck by a TriMet bus while riding his electric bike, highlighting concerns about road safety and public transportation policies.
The plaintiff, Robert Smith, aged 34, was commuting home on his e-bike when he was hit by a TriMet bus at a downtown Portland intersection in August 2019. As a result of the accident, Smith suffered serious injuries, leading to multiple surgeries and a prolonged period of physical therapy.
After deliberating for two days, the jury determined that the transit agency was negligent in providing proper training to its bus driver, who reportedly failed to yield the right of way to the cyclist.
In addition to compensatory damages, the jury also awarded Smith with punitive damages, emphasizing the need for more stringent safety training and awareness within public transit operations.
Legal representatives of Smith argued during the trial that this incident reflects a larger systemic issue within the city’s public transportation network, accusing TriMet of prioritizing schedules over safety. The verdict, they suggest, should serve as a wake-up call for the agency to reassess its training programs and safety checks.
Conversely, legal counsel for TriMet expressed disappointment with the jury’s decision and indicated plans to appeal. They argued that the bus driver involved had a commendable track record and that the incident was an unfortunate accident rather than the result of gross negligence.
Safety advocates have seized upon this case as a critical example of the risks faced by cyclists, particularly from larger vehicles like buses, in urban settings. They call for improved road designs that better accommodate both cyclists and public transit.
The incident has also stirred dialogue among Portland residents about the cohabitation of e-bikes and city buses on busy streets. Urban planning experts suggest that growing e-bike popularity necessitates revamped city planning that considers the diverse modes of transportation now sharing the road.
Discussing the broader implications, a city official acknowledged the need for ongoing improvements to infrastructure and signaled that new measures are underway to increase road safety for all users, including cyclists.
The case, which has captured the attention of local media and public transit authorities nationwide, underlines the ongoing challenges and necessary actions required to secure safe and harmonious transportation environments in urban settings.
As the community and its leaders reflect on this case, the overarching hope is that such incidents will lead to constructive changes, enhancing safety protocols and fostering a safer commute for cyclists and public transit users alike.