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October 2021
Halloween is meant to be scary, but not when it comes to driving. Yet, when it comes to impaired driving, Halloween can turn the roads into a horror fest. Even one alcoholic beverage could be one too many for some drivers. So, if you plan to drive, plan to refrain from alcohol. If you do plan to enjoy some witch’s brew, be sure to arrange a sober ride home in advance. Stay safe on Halloween night, and every night.
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Keep an Eye Out for Pedestrians as Days Grow Shorter
Whether it be in a parking lot, crosswalk, or on a road, everyone is a pedestrian. In the U.S., a traffic-related pedestrian death occurs every 84 minutes. In a crash between a vehicle and a pedestrian, the pedestrian is far more likely to be killed or injured. Protect yourself and your loved ones when walking, and learn how you can help us prevent pedestrian injuries and deaths.
Driving at the posted speed limit provides the driver time to “see, identify, and react” in time to brake for pedestrians – slow, especially at night. And as days become darker, motorists and pedestrians must be more alert. Pedestrians can carry a flashlight and attach reflective materials to their clothing – these materials reflect light from headlights back to drivers, making it easier to see you. Order and share outreach materials from the Pedestrian Safety Digital Toolkit.
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 Teen Driver Safety Week
National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 17-23, 2021. This week - and every week, parents should have conversations with their teens about the important rules they need to follow to stay safe behind the wheel of a motor vehicle.
These rules address the greatest dangers for teen drivers:
- distracted driving (texting while driving)
- impaired driving (alcohol and drugs)
- inconsistent or no seat belt use
- number of passengers
- speeding
Even if you think they aren't listening, they are. So, remember, set the rules before they hit the road.
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White Cane Safety Day
On October 15, White Cane Safety Day is observed around the world. In the United States, it is a national observance, which was first celebrated in 1964, after the proclamation by President Lyndon B. Johnson. White Cane Safety Day is a day of awareness, education, and celebration of white canes and guide dogs for independent and safe travel. In Oregon law, you must give the right of way to a pedestrian with limited vision or any pedestrian who is blind or deaf and blind carrying a white cane or using a guide dog. Stop if the person is about to cross or is crossing the road. Remain stopped until the person has crossed the entire road, even if you have a green light.
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Deer and Elk Migration Season
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. Be alert and 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 is another tip that can help reduce vehicle-wildlife incidents.
Be aware of the possible dangers associated with animals on or near roadways. When you see wildlife, reduce your speed, and try to stay in your lane. And always wear your seat belt!
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Transportation Safety Action Plan Adopted
An updated Transportation Safety Action Plan was recently adopted by the Oregon Transportation Commission. The plan demonstrates Oregon’s commitment to the safety of all road users. It is a data-driven, statewide, multi-year, comprehensive plan that provides long-term goals, policies, strategies, and near-term actions to eliminate deaths and life-changing injuries on Oregon’s transportation system by 2035.
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Managing E-Bikes on Multi-Use Paths
Many Oregonians have been asking about e-bikes lately. Kittelson & Associates wrote an article recently that provided great information about some common questions about e-bikes.
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Resources
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