Oregon State Snow & Ice Accidents

Oregon snow and Icey road

Driving Hazards in the Pacific Northwest: A Growing Concern

Oregon and Washington drivers face some of the nation’s most perilous road conditions, andrecent research has shed light on the severity of the situation. According to new data, Washington ranks third in the nation for fatal crashes during inclement weather and has the highest rate of accidents involving “other” adverse conditions. Meanwhile, Oregon holds the sixth-highest rate of weather-related driving fatalities in the country.

The study, which analyzed data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), found that 14.5% of Oregon’s driving fatalities occur during adverse weather conditions, a stark contrast to safer states where the percentage is significantly lower. This highlights the critical need for heightened awareness and caution while driving in these regions, particularly during winter months when conditions can turn hazardous rapidly.

The arrival of winter immediately highlights significant shifts in road safety due to changing weather conditions on the road, visibility, maneuverability, and can impact basic elements of driving a motor vehicle.

A decade-long analysis from the Oregon Department of Transportation indicates that crash reports peak during October, November, and December, coinciding with the start of the rainy season.

Winter Weather Accidents in Oregon (2021)

  • Total Accidents: 2,638
  • Fatal Accidents: 16
  • Accidents with Injuries: 1,044
  • Pedestrian-Involved Accidents: 15 (100% resulted in injuries)
  • State Highways:
      • Total Accidents: 1,628
      • Fatal Accidents: 13
      • Accidents with Injuries: 669
  • Truck-Involved Accidents:
      • Total Accidents: 257
      • Fatal Accidents: 4
      • Accidents with Injuries: 86

Winter Accidents in Oregon’s Rural Areas (2021)

  • Total Accidents: 1,581
  • Fatal Accidents: 12
  • Accidents with Injuries: 664

Ice and Snow Accidents in Portland (2021)

  • Total Accidents: 117
  • Fatal Accidents: 1
  • Accidents with Injuries: 38

Although winter officially begins with the December 21st solstice, cold weather conditions often make an earlier appearance. By late November, parts of the Cascade and Blue Mountain regions in Eastern Oregon were already hit by a cold front and a winter storm.

In 2017, rain contributed to 69% of weather-related fatal crashes in Oregon, whereas snow accounted for 16%.

Most cities in Oregon report an annual average of around 10 snow and ice-related accidents, with variations ranging from 5 to 15 depending on the location. However, the following cities consistently exceed this annual average:

  • Bend: 100 accidents
  • Salem: 45 accidents
  • Beaverton: 43 accidents
  • Gresham: 36 accidents

Key Laws to Consider

  • Illegal Passing of Snowplows: It is illegal to pass a snowplow on the right on state highways. Snowplows on most Oregon highways are equipped with “wing” plows that extend more than eight feet from the right front edge of the truck. The snow being plowed or blown off the road may contain rocks and debris that can damage vehicles.
  • Proper Lookout Requirement: Oregon law mandates that drivers maintain a “proper lookout” during adverse weather conditions to minimize the risks of accidents, injuries, or fatalities.
  • Speed and Control: Drivers are required to adjust their speed and maintain control of their vehicles according to the prevailing weather conditions.
  • Negligence Liability: Failure to adhere to these standards can result in the driver being held liable in a negligence lawsuit if an accident occurs.

Black Ice: Invisible Threat

Black ice, also known as glare or clear ice, is a thin, transparent layer that forms on the road. It’s especially hazardous because it often looks like wet pavement, making it hard for drivers to recognize the danger. The term “black ice” is misleading; it appears dark because of the pavement beneath, not because of the ice itself.

Regular snow tires aren’t ideal for icy conditions. Tire chains provide better traction, but stopping distances on black ice are still much longer than on dry roads.

Black ice typically forms at night or early in the morning when temperatures are lowest. Although it melts when exposed to sunlight, it can linger in shaded areas. Even if the air temperature is above freezing, the road may still be icy, which can trick drivers into thinking it’s safe.

When it comes to liability in black ice accidents, the usual factors still apply:

  • Speeding for road conditions
  • Following too closely
  • Unsafe passing
  • Impaired or distracted driving
  • Sudden braking

Accidents on the Road: Not Just Collisions

When faced with adverse weather conditions, be prepared for potential delays and the need to wait in your vehicle. Always keep blankets, water, food, batteries, and other essentials in your car. Patience is key.

Use Caution When Navigating Side Streets

Recently, a group of drivers attempted to avoid traffic on I-84 by using GPS directions, only to get stuck on an unsuitable road. A total of 11 vehicles were stranded on a dangerous stretch, and authorities reported that it took several hours to free the vehicles and return them to the main road.

Be Safe Outside

The early 2024 winter storm highlights the dangers of severe weather. A power line fell on a vehicle, injuring three people, including an infant. The storm’s impact was a stark reminder of how winter weather can cause unpredictable and dangerous situations, beyond just icy or snowy roads.

2024 Victims (First Weekend)

As we begin to see the first signs of colder weather, it’s clear that the fatal accident season starts with the drop in temperature rather than the official calendar start of winter. Unfortunately, this year, the risks have already become evident. Here’s a summary of the victims so far:

  • November 9th:
      • A crash on Highway 18 in Yamhill County resulted in one fatality after a car overcorrected and collided with another vehicle.
      • Another crash on Highway 95 in Malheur County killed one person and severely injured a passenger after their vehicle rolled.
  • November 10th:
      • A hit-and-run on Highway 101 in Brookings claimed one life.
      • A collision on Highway 224 near Barton killed one driver after their car hit a tree.
      • A crash on Highway 99 in Central Point resulted in another fatality.
  • November 12th:
      • A fiery crash in Eugene killed one person after their vehicle struck a tree.

Driving Tips for Snowy and Icy Roads

For Snowy Conditions

  • Allow extra time for travel, as road conditions will be slow.
  • Increase your stopping distance due to slippery roads.
  • Brake gently to avoid skidding. If wheels lock, ease off the brakes.
  • Carry tire chains and know how to use them.
  • Ensure your vehicle is in top condition: clean headlights, good brakes, wipers, and tires.
  • Slow down near off-ramps, bridges, and shaded spots where snow lingers longer.
  • Turn on your headlights to improve visibility.
  • Be prepared for delays: bring water, blankets, full gas tank, and be patient.
  • If conditions worsen, stop for the night if needed.

For Icy Conditions

  • Turn off cruise control and drive cautiously.
  • Adjust speed to match the varying traction on wet or icy roads.
  • Keep a greater distance from vehicles, about three times more space than usual.
  • If the car feels like it’s floating, slow down gradually and tap the brakes.
  • Be mindful of elevation changes, especially on shaded areas where ice can form.
  • Avoid driving through snowdrifts that can cause you to lose control.
  • Blowing snow can limit visibility, particularly near trucks or snowplows; maintain a safe distance.
  • Watch for signs of ice on windshield wipers, side mirrors, signs, or trees—if it’s on these, it’s likely on the road too.

Important for Icy Roads

  • Bridges and overpasses freeze first and thaw last because they’re made of concrete, which doesn’t retain heat. Always drive with extra caution in these areas.