What’s are the most dangerous roads in Portland? To find out, here is the investigation of crash data from the Oregon Department of Transportation.

The Safety Priority Index System, compiled by ODOT, compares the number of crashes on the entire roadway network, including city and county roads and highways.

1. Sunset Highway approaching Vista Ridge Tunnels

Total Crashes:	Fatal Crashes:	Injury Crashes:	Average Daily Traffic:
187	0	89	67,600

One can meet several challenges when crossing this busy stretch of roadway. US-26 has a steep grade, sweeping turns and plenty of congestion as Westside commuters converge into roads in downtown Portland.

“It’s a nightmare,” said Chris McGinness, KGW traffic reporter. “It’s hard to imagine squeezing 50,000 gallons through a garden hose.”

Over the past three years, ODOT records indicate there have been 187 crashes along this stretch of the Sunset Highway. Of those, 98 wrecks were property damage only, although fender benders can be especially troublesome along this busy stretch of roadway.

“A crash clogging a lane during maximum volume is going to create a pretty substantial backup. We see that all the time,” said McGinness.

2. SE 82nd Ave. near SE Powell Blvd.

Total Crashes:	Fatal Crashes:	Injury Crashes:	Average Daily Traffic:
92	0	50	26,800

Two lanes in each direction Busy Southeast 82nd Avenue near Powell Boulevard has two lanes in each direction. This commercial stretch in Portland had 92 crashes among cars traveling north or south on 82nd in the past three years.

3. SE Powell Blvd. near SE 174th Ave.

Total Crashes:	Fatal Crashes:	Injury Crashes:	Average Daily Traffic:
67	0	36	18,866

ODOT estimates nearly 18,866 vehicles drive along this stretch every day. The intersection has stop lights and designated turn lanes in all directions.

4. NE 82nd Ave. near NE Fremont Street 

Total Crashes:	Fatal Crashes:	Injury Crashes:	Average Daily Traffic:
71	1	40	20,633

There was one fatal crash over the past three years along this busy stretch of Northeast 82nd Avenue in Northeast Portland.

5. SE Powell Blvd near SE 136th Ave. 

Total Crashes:	Fatal Crashes:	Injury Crashes:	Average Daily Traffic:
67	0	43	18,900

This four-way intersection includes several things in it, including crosswalks, a bicycle lane, stop lights and commercial businesses. There were 67 crashes along this stretch of US-26 over the past three years.

There is nothing more important than one’s safety. No matter on what road you are, you always need to be conscious. Attentiveness is the most vital thing on the road!