Jaywalking isn’t a crime in Oregon. But neither is common sense – Medford News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News

Mail Tribune (Medford, OR — Wayback)

2009-02-17

Document text

Jaywalking isn't a crime in Oregon. But neither is common sense Feb 17, 2009 12:00 AM A A A friend of mine says it's legal to jaywalk in Oregon. Is that true? Can I really cross the street anywhere I want without getting a ticket? — Paul M., Medford Before you put your shoes on and start playing Frogger, Paul, we'll fill you in on the rules of the road. Yes, jaywalking is generally allowed in Oregon. However, if you see a sign that specifically indicates you shouldn't cross the street, obey it. For example, at a traffic light that is red or when confronted with a "Don't Walk" sign, you can't legally stroll across the crosswalk even if there's no traffic for miles around. According to Medford Police Chief Randy Schoen, vehicles have to yield to any pedestrian in a crosswalk that doesn't have a signal. However, if a pedestrian wants to cross in the middle of the street, the pedestrian would have to yield to the vehicles. Schoen said that pedestrians should choose to use crosswalks when they are available. Send questions to "Since You Asked," Mail Tribune Newsroom, P.O. Box 1108, Medford, OR 97501; by fax to 541-776-4376; or by e-mail to [email protected]. We're sorry, but the volume of questions received prevents us from answering all of them.