PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) – With the holidays in full swing, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) wants travelers to know how to stay safe. According to the National Security Council estimates, more than 300 people could be killed on the roads this holiday season.
These tips may sound familiar, but PBOT spokesperson Hannah Schafer says they're extremely important now.
“Some of the key factors are relevant throughout the year and should be especially important at this time of year when we celebrate and let loose a little,” said Hannah Schafer, PBOT spokesperson.
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In Portland, fatal accidents have something of a common thread.
“Between 2017 and 2021, 69% of our fatal crashes in Portland were due to impairment. So we’re talking about over 50% of fatal accidents,” Schafer said.
The solution is as simple as making sure you plan how you will get home if you plan to go out.
PBOT tries to make things even easier.
“We are offering vouchers and discounts for taxis, Uber and Lyft for New Year's Eve, and the light rail and Trimet will all offer free public transportation after 7 p.m.,” Schafer said.
It's not about raining on your parade, but it will probably rain on Christmas. PBOT says you don't want to go through significant standing water. You could hydroplane.
PBOT recommends driving at or below the speed limit.
“A pedestrian struck by someone driving 40 miles per hour is 8 times more likely to die than a pedestrian struck at 20 miles per hour. So we really encourage people to respect the speed limit. speed or below and especially in heavy rain,” says Schäfer.
Also watch out for potholes hidden in standing water. Especially if you cycle.
If your storm drain is clogged and you are unable to unclog it yourself, PBOT will take calls at 503-823-1700.
