Marion County Sheriff's Office Launches Summer Driving Campaign

MCSO would like to remind motorists to drive safe and sober.

Distracted driving is a significant highway safety issue. Image: Oregon.gov

(SALEM, Ore.) - Last Friday the Marion County Sheriff's Office Traffic Safety Team launched two separate driving campaigns focused to create a safe traveling experience for visitors and residents.

Beginning August 19th and ending September 5th, deputies will be working our roadways focusing on impaired and distracted driving.

The Oregon Department of transportation has offered eleven tips to "ditch the distractions":

1. Turn it off and stow it. Turn your phone off or switch it to silent mode before you get in the car. Then stow it away so that it's out of reach.
2. Spread the word. Record a message on your phone that tells callers you're driving and will get back to them when you're off the road, or sign up for a service that offers this feature.
3. Install an app. Apps can help you avoid texting while driving. Go to your app store and search for "distracted driving."
4. Pull over. If you need to make a call, pull over to a safe area first.
5. Use your passengers. Ask a passenger to make the call or respond to a text for you.
6. X the text. Don't ever text and drive, browse online or read your email while driving. It's dangerous and against the law in most states. Even voice-to-text isn't risk-free.
7. Know the law. Familiarize yourself with state and local laws before you get in the car. Oregon prohibits the use of hand-held cell phones in addition to texting.
8. Prepare. If using a GPS device, enter your destination before you start to drive. If you prefer a map or written directions, review them in advance. If you need help while driving, ask a passenger to assist you or pull over to a safe location to change your GPS or review your map/directions.
9. Secure your pets. Unsecured pets can be a big distraction in the car.
10. Mind the kids. Pull over to a safe place to address situations involving children in the car.
11. Focus on driving. Multi-tasking behind the wheel is dangerous. Refrain from eating, drinking, reading, grooming, smoking, and any other activity that takes your mind and eyes off the road.

The Sheriff's Office would like to remind motorists to drive safe and sober, extra patrols are made possible by grants through the Oregon State Sheriff's Association and the Oregon Department of Transportation.