The statutes for use of appropriate signals for stopping, turning, changing lanes, or suddenly decelerating a motor vehicle are set forth in ORS 811.390 – ORS811.405.  Proper signals include turn lights or, under certain circumstances, hand and arm signals.  In this section, we shall address all of these issues. In general, the DMV’s publication–the Oregon … Read More

The issues of parking, stopping, and standing are united by one common principle in Oregon law.  That common principle is a significant consideration of traffic safety—which prohibits unnecessary stopping, standing or parking so as to impede the free flow of traffic.  This principle is discussed under the provisions of ORS 811.550 to ORS 811.585. Now, … Read More

In Oregon, there are two major statutes which govern the issue of improper lane use.  Also, there is a body of Oregon case-law which addresses each of these statutes under specific fact-patterns and circumstances. First, under the provisions of ORS 811.370(1), a driver must operate his/her vehicle as nearly as possible within a single lane.  … Read More

Passing another vehicle is a normal part of driving, but it can be very dangerous.  Before you start to pass, be sure that you have enough room to complete the maneuver.  If you have to cut back into your lane too soon, then you run the risk of sideswiping the vehicle that you are attempting … Read More

Generally, motor vehicle drivers must drive on the right half of the roadway—and to the right of oncoming vehicles. This principle is well-established in Oregon’s statutes [ORS 811.295(1)].  There are only a few exceptions to this basic rule. Limited Exceptions to the Rule You are required to drive on the right half of the road … Read More