Oregonians are all too familiar with the terrible consequences of
driving drunk. And a number of recent campaigns have brought to light the
dangers of distracted driving. However, drugged driving is an increasingly
important public safety issue.
Marijuana-infused edibles, extracts, and topical products became
legal in Oregon for anyone age 21 and older as of June 2. The effect of
marijuana on perception and coordination are responsible for serious
impairments in driving ability. The potency of THC has increased substantially
over the years and liquid THC, a highly potent distillation of marijuana, can
contain up to 90% THC. Liquid THC is odorless and is commonly sold in marijuana
food items (edibles) such as candy or baked goods. Even for an experienced
cannabis user, the potency of an edible can be surprisingly strong. And
marijuana edibles can take up to two hours or more to take effect.
Make it none for the road – Help prevent a
tragedy and make a plan for a safe ride home before you partake. Designate a
sober driver ahead of time. You can be arrested for DUII – Driving Under the
Influence of Intoxicants – whether it is alcohol, marijuana, inhalants,
prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or other legal drugs. Drive
Sober. The Way to Go.
With the warmer weather, many motorcyclists are taking to the
roads. For riders, safety education can sharpen your skills and make you better
prepared for the challenges of riding in our great state. Basic and advanced
classes are available across Oregon. ODOT-approved motorcycle safety courses
are provided by the TEAM Oregon Motorcycle Safety Program, which has been
delivering rider education for three decades. Visit the TEAM Oregon website for a list of
classes near you.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility.
Motorcyclists’ responsibilities include obeying traffic laws, being alert to
other drivers, never riding while impaired or distracted, and always wearing a
helmet and highly visible gear. All through the year,
but especially during the summer when more motorcyclists are on the road,
drivers should safely “share the road” with motorcycles and be extra alert to
help keep motorcyclists safe.
Bicycle helmets are required by law in Oregon for kids under 16
years old, not only while bicycling, but also while skateboarding, riding a
scooter, or in-line skating. To stay safe, ride bicycles on the right with
traffic, use hand signals, obey traffic signs and signals, be visible and stay
alert. Wearing a bicycle helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by 85%. Ride
safely.
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When you see emergency lights approaching, pull to the right – it helps
emergency responders arrive at the scene quicker and it is also the law. Failure
to do so may result in a $260 fine in Oregon or more. You must yield the right
of way to all emergency vehicles (ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles)
when they approach from all directions using lights and sirens. Once you have
pulled to the right, stay stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed. If you are driving up to any type of stopped emergency vehicle, you must move over to another lane or, if you cannot safely change lanes, you must slow down.
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