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Oregon Road Conditions & Cams Email Story to a Friend January 9, 2006 Cop’s Corner Be extra cautious drivingin winter The Jackson County Roads Department asked me to do an article regarding people who pass the county’s plows and sanders on dangerous curves and hills. Last year the department had one accident in which someone ran into the "ripper" of a snowplow. The department also said people are routinely driving too fast for the snowy and icy conditions. Since we’re in that time of year, it’s probably a good thing to review some common wintertime driving issues, besides the constant fog, that is. Most times you are better off following the plow, rather than fighting the snow it is trying to plow. Just don’t follow too closely to the plow. Also be aware that if you do pass, you’ll need extra time and distance to pass, as once you clear the plow you will not be in the good conditions made by the plow clearing the roadway for you. Probably most of the issues in the winter boil down to driving too fast for the conditions. Oregon’s speed laws contain the provision for violation of the basic rule, which when condensed means driving too fast for conditions. Most of the bail schedules are set up for being over the speed limit, in 10 mph increments. But what if it’s icy out and the speed limit is 55 mph, but due to the ice or snow, a prudent speed would be 40 mph? (Usually I judge a "prudent" speed as a combination of what I feel comfortable driving and what the majority of other drivers are driving.) Then Oregon law says being in violation of the basic rule is a "B" violation and will cost you $242. It doesn’t matter whether you’re driving 5 mph or 25 mph faster than you should be, the charge and bail are still the same. So, try not to stand out in the crowd by traveling in snow or ice at a speed that’s significantly higher than your fellow motorists, even if it’s less than the posted speed limit. At the very least you’ll be saving yourself some serious cash. Dace Cochran is a patrol sergeant with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. Have a question for him? Write to Mail Tribune Newsroom, P.O. Box 1108, Medford, OR 97501, or e-mail [email protected]. Mail Tribune Home | Local News | Sports | Business | Obituaries | Life | Opinion AP News | Archives | Site Map | Community | Classified Copyright © 1997-2005 Mail Tribune, Inc. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Website Feedback www.bingo.com Home Security Systems Trunks, Footlocker Distance Education Computer Security Cheap Website Hosting Discount Hotel Reservations dvd-r Online Pharmacy Myspace Home Equity Loans Windermere Van Vleet Deep Muscle Stimulator Sports Equipment Online Casino Reviews High End Computers Online Casino News Online Bingo Entertainment Guide Online Casino Fundraisers Student Loans Advertisement s