The Bicyclist’s Survival Guide
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) maintains “The Bicyclist’s Survival Guide” and it is available for viewing on the ODOT website. It is a timely guide for the summer months when there is an increase in ridership and unfortunately in bicycle accidents. Take a moment and familiarize yourself once again with the “rules of the
FDA Says Temporary Tattoos May Cause Injury
As families head out for vacations during the summer months, many will allow their children to get a temporary tattoo for fun. These tattoos usually last from a few days to a few weeks before harmlessly fading away. The tattoos have been looked upon as a fun harmless experience but the Food and Drug Administration
Roadway Departure Crashes Account for 66% of All Traffic Fatalities in Oregon
Oregon State Police (OSP) and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) have teamed up to help reduce the incidences of roadway departure crashes. A roadway departure crash is a non-intersection crash when a vehicle either crosses the center line or the edge of the road. Examples of these types of crashes are sideswiping another vehicle, traveling
Cell Phone Usage and Multitaskers
There have been several articles and awareness campaigns regarding cell phone usage while driving. Many people believe they can multitask without a problem, but studies indicate just the opposite. As reported in Medical News Today, Motorists overrate their ability to talk on cell phones while driving. A study supported by a grant from the American
Some Sleep Drugs Can Impair Driving
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reminding consumers that some drugs to treat insomnia could make them less able the next morning to perform activities for which they must be fully alert, including driving a car. FDA has informed manufacturers that the recommended dose should be lowered for sleep drugs approved for bedtime use
Keep New Year’s Eve Safe
In order to keep everyone safe this year during New Year’s Eve, we encourage all drivers to be sober and avoid accidents or/and being stopped by the police and arrested. Continuing stepped up enforcement efforts that are part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, Oregon State Police (OSP), Oregon State Sheriff’s
Decorative Contact Lenses – Not a Good Choice for Halloween
During the Halloween season, many people are tempted to add decorative contact lenses to put the finishing touches on their costumes for a cool or spooky look. If you purchase these lenses without a prescription or the involvement of an eye care professional, you can risk serious eye damage. Most decorative lenses are readily available
Think Twice Before Lending Your Vehicle to a Friend
We have all been in the position of lending our vehicle to a friend or relative to drive on occasion. In fact, most of us wouldn’t give it a second thought when asked and happily give over our keys. There are certain risks in doing this and, under some circumstances, this may not be a
Definition of Legal Terms
I am frequently asked by clients to define the meaning of certain legal terms and concepts. In the law, there are many things that we, as lawyers, refer to that are foreign to the layperson. One of the more important concepts to be aware of is the Statute of Limitations. Virtually every legal claim is
Three-day Weekends: Safety Tips and Reminders
Labor Day weekend is typically the last weekend families head out for three days to spend time together before the kids return to school. Traffic in Oregon on the long weekend is usually an issue with long lines of vehicles leaving home to travel for fun and relaxation. The extra traffic affects travel time and
Taxes for Personal Injury Settlement
During tax season, many clients ask me if they owe taxes on their personal injury settlement or award. My usual answer is that, generally speaking, compensation for physical injuries is non-taxable and the money does not need to be reported on your income tax return. There are a few exceptions such as punitive damage awards
Stormy Winter Driving in Oregon
During the winter, there is a significant upswing in motor vehicle accidents. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has a comprehensive checklist regarding safe driving during the winter months. The highlights are: 1. Make sure your vehicle is ready for travel. Make sure to use antifreeze. Carry a flashlight. Carry chains or use traction tires.