Get Rested, Be Seen
Daylight saving time ends on the first Sunday in November – Sunday, Nov. 5 – when clocks are moved back an hour at 2 a.m. local time. What
does this mean for travelers? It means potential disruption to sleep patterns
which can result in drowsy, inattentive driving. Just last year in Oregon, 15
people died in crashes involving drowsy driving, up from nine in 2015. It’s likely that number is even higher, as officials often
don’t know if drowsy driving contributed to a crash. Over the past five years
in the state, 51 people died in crashes where drowsy driving was a factor: most
likely, those crashes could have been avoided.
Be
rested. Be seen. Be safe.
Drivers must use extra vigilance this time of
year not only to avoid driving drowsy but to watch out for others because our
days are shorter – more bicyclists and pedestrians are traveling in darkness,
both in the mornings and evenings. Stormy weather is coming as well, which can
obscure a driver’s vision.
TIP: Drivers should allow plenty of time to get
where they need to go, so they aren’t in a hurry, and be prepared to slow down.
TIP: Pedestrians and cyclists should wear bright and/or reflective clothing,
use reflective gear and lights, and watch out for drivers who may not see you.
Time for Motorists
to be on High Alert for Wildlife
October and November are the busiest months for vehicle-wildlife
collisions in Oregon. With deer and elk on the move due to breeding season and
migration to winter ranges, more wildlife are crossing roads all over the
state. ODOT urges motorists to be on alert and be ready to slow down. Signs placed
in particularly popular areas for wildlife crossing are one tool to help
drivers avoid collisions. Being especially watchful around sunrise and sunset.
Be aware of the possible dangers associated with animals on or near our
highways. Extra vigilance is required. The following information may help
reduce these incidents:
- Be extra careful in areas where there is a lot of vegetation next
to the road or while going around curves. Wildlife near the road may not be
visible.
- Remember that the presence of any type of animal/wildlife could
also mean that others are nearby.
- When you see an animal near or on the roadway, reduce your speed
and try to stay in your lane. Many serious crashes are the result of drivers
swerving to avoid wildlife or other obstacles and they crash into another
vehicle or lose control of their own vehicle.
- Always wear your safety belt, as even the slightest collision
could result in serious injuries.
Thanksgiving Weekend Travel
This Thanksgiving weekend, millions will hit our nation's roads,
eager to spend time with family and friends. It’s one of the busiest travel
times of the year, and unfortunately more people on the roadways means the
potential for more vehicle crashes.
In less time than it takes
you to slice the pie, pass the gravy, or say ‘Happy Thanksgiving,’ you can do
something much more powerful, smart, and effective. Please remind all of your
family members to Buckle Up—Every Trip.
Every Time. You will be thankful you did.
|
