Emergency Situations and Defensive Driving in Oregon

1. What is the legal blood alcohol limit in Oregon for operating a vehicle?


The legal blood alcohol limit in Oregon for operating a vehicle is 0.08%.

2. What are the rules for passing a stopped school bus in Oregon?


In Oregon, motorists must stop at least 20 feet away from a stopped school bus when its flashing red lights are activated and the stop arm is extended. All motorists traveling in either direction must stop, unless the roadway is divided by a median or barrier. Motorists should remain stopped until the bus resumes motion, the flashing red lights are no longer activated, or the stop arm is withdrawn.

3. In what situations should a driver yield the right of way in Oregon?


In Oregon, drivers should yield the right of way to pedestrians in a crosswalk, at intersections, to vehicles on their right at 4-way stops, to bicyclists and horseback riders, to emergency vehicles, when turning left, when merging onto a highway, when approaching a traffic circle, and when approaching a yield sign.

4. What is Oregon’s distracted driving law?


Oregon’s distracted driving law prohibits drivers from using a mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle, unless the device is equipped with hands-free technology. This law also applies to any activity that takes the driver’s attention away from the task of driving, such as eating or drinking while behind the wheel. Drivers found in violation of Oregon’s distracted driving law may be fined up to $1,000. Additionally, a driver found in violation of Oregon’s distracted driving law may be charged with Negligent Driving, which carries with it fines of up to $6,250 and up to a year in jail.

5. Is it legal to use a cell phone while driving in Oregon?


No, it is not legal to use a cell phone while driving in Oregon. It is illegal to use any hand-held mobile electronic device while driving, including talking on a cell phone.

6. When should a driver use high beams in Oregon?


In Oregon, drivers should use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic and no vehicles ahead of them. High beams should be used only with caution and dimmed whenever another vehicle approaches.

7. What is the speed limit on highways in Oregon?


The speed limit on highways in Oregon is typically 65 mph.

8. How long are drivers allowed to drive without taking a break in Oregon?


Oregon does not have state-wide regulations on how long drivers are allowed to drive without taking a break. However, most companies have their own regulations and policies. For example, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has a rule that states that drivers must take a break after 8 hours of continuous driving. Additionally, drivers must take at least a 30-minute break every 8 hours.

9. What should drivers do when approaching a railroad crossing in Oregon?


When approaching a railroad crossing in Oregon, drivers should slow down and look both ways for an approaching train. Drivers should also be aware of railroad crossing signals such as bells, flashing lights, and signs that indicate a train is coming. Drivers should never drive around lowered gates or attempt to cross the tracks when a train is coming.

10. How should drivers react if they encounter an aggressive driver on the road in Oregon?


If a driver encounters an aggressive driver on the road, they should remain calm and try to get away from them as quickly and safely as possible. If the aggressive driver is following too closely, the driver should pull off to the side of the road and call 911. The Oregon Department of Transportation also recommends avoiding any eye contact with aggressive drivers, not engaging in a confrontation, and avoiding any potentially dangerous maneuvers.

11. How should drivers react to a flooded roadway in Oregon?


Drivers should avoid flooded roadways in Oregon. If a driver finds themselves in a flooded roadway, they should turn around and find an alternate route. Driving through a flooded roadway can be dangerous and damage a car. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, the safest thing to do is to turn around and find an alternate route.

12. How can drivers prepare their vehicles for winter driving in Oregon?


Drivers in Oregon should winterize their vehicles in preparation for cold and wet winter weather. This includes replacing the wiper blades, checking the antifreeze, inspecting the battery, checking the tires (including pressure and tread depth), and topping off all fluids (oil, water, etc.). Drivers should also keep their gasoline tanks at least half full to reduce condensation, as well as carry an emergency kit with items such as blankets, snow chains, a flashlight and extra warm clothing.

13. What is the legal age for operating a vehicle in Oregon?


The legal age to operate a vehicle in Oregon is 16 years old.

14. What are the rules for stopping at a stop sign in Oregon?


At a stop sign in Oregon, a driver must come to a complete stop before proceeding. The driver must wait until it is safe to proceed, and must yield right of way to vehicles and pedestrians who have the right of way. A driver should also remain aware of their surroundings while stopping at a stop sign.

15. Who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection in Oregon?


At an uncontrolled intersection in Oregon, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right. If both drivers reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the right should go first.

16. What are the rules for using emergency lanes on highways in Oregon?


Oregon law requires drivers to move to the right when a law enforcement, fire, ambulance, or other authorized emergency vehicle is traveling on the highway with its emergency lights activated. The law also states that all vehicles must yield the right-of-way to an emergency vehicle. All vehicles must slow down and stay as far to the right as possible, unless otherwise directed by an emergency responder. Additionally, drivers cannot use the emergency lane for passing or overtaking another vehicle.

17. How should drivers manage their speed on curvy roads in Oregon?


Drivers should reduce their speed when approaching a curve in order to maintain control of their vehicles. Drivers should also be aware of their surroundings and watch for any sudden changes in the road. Drivers should adjust their speed accordingly to allow safe passing of other vehicles and to maintain a safe distance from cyclists, pedestrians, and parked cars. Additionally, drivers should avoid accelerating or braking sharply in the middle of a curve.

18. What is the minimum age for having a learner’s permit in Oregon?


In Oregon, the minimum age for getting a learner’s permit is 15 years old.

19. What is the rule for yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks in Oregon?


In Oregon, when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk, drivers must stop and yield the right of way to the pedestrian. When two vehicles approach a crosswalk at the same time, the driver on the right must yield to the driver on the left. Additionally, drivers must always be aware of pedestrians and bicyclists and take care to avoid hitting them.

20. When should drivers use headlights during daylight hours in Oregon?


In Oregon, drivers must use their headlights during daylight hours when visibility is less than 1,000 feet. This is often the case when it is raining, snowing, foggy, or during periods of low visibility due to dust or smoke.