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Most of Oregon will be entering Phase II of Governor Kate Brown’s reopening plan. Portland and the rest of Multnomah County are about to enter Phase I, according to the East Oregonian. For the counties entering Phase II, the following businesses and activities have resumed under social distancing and public health guidelines:
- Recreational sports
- Movie theaters, bowling alleys and arcades
- Public pools
- Churches and social gatherings
- Bars and restaurants will be allowed to stay open until midnight
- Additional in-office work
As we discussed in April, COVID-19 has led to an increase in speeding on Oregon roads. As Oregon starts to transition back to normal, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) warns that driving conditions could be dangerous. The primary reasons for this are:
- An increase in traffic congestion: As businesses open and activities start to resume, people will travel more often. Traffic congestion could be even greater than it was prior to COVID-19. That’s because more people will be using their own cars to get around and avoid using public transit or Uber. This can be problematic, as some drivers who have developed the habit of speeding start to mix with others on the road.
- Drunk driving could increase: As bars and restaurants start to reopen, people who have been pent up in their homes for months will want to get out and consume alcohol. This could lead an increase in drunk driving. With 4th of July coming within weeks, we could see a sharp increase.
Staying safe on the road
Many people who haven’t driven while in quarantine need to brush up their driving skills. Moreover, collisions can be avoided by merely being alert, aware, sober and traveling at a reasonable pace.
Those who haven’t driven for essential purposes such as work, getting groceries, or attending medical appointments, should brush up on their driving skills as we transition back to normal. In addition, it’s important to use caution and defensive driving skills on the road.
Should you or a loved one be injured in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s important to speak to an experienced Portland car accident attorney who can help you build a strong legal claim and get the compensation you need.
To get started, contact Zbinden & Curtis, Attorneys At Law, and schedule your free and confidential case evaluation. You can also call our Portland office at 503-287-5000.
