Other Hazards
Common Driving Hazards
There are many driving hazards on Oregon roads today. Below are a few common things to look out for when driving:
- Poor visibility
- Wet roads
- Icy roads
- Animals in the roadway
- Road debris (fallen trees, rocks, items fallen off other vehicles, roadkill, etc.)
Safe Driving Tips
Whenever you are behind the wheel, make sure that you are alert, awake, and engaged. Always practice defensive driving by knowing how to make necessary adjustments to your driving to account for any potential problems with your vehicle, weather, traffic, or other cars on the road. Never drive distracted by making sure you know where you are going before getting in the driver’s seat. We suggest putting your phone somewhere out of reach or turning on Do Not Disturb to limit potential distractions.
Remember, it is mandatory for all drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts when a car is moving in the state of Oregon!
Slick roads and poor visibility are some of the most common driving hazards in Oregon. When driving in the rain, fog, or other wet conditions, slow down! Give yourself extra time to get where you are going so you do not feel the need to rush and can truly take your time and be as safe as possible. Do not use cruise control when driving in wet conditions, as you want to make sure you have as much control over your vehicle as possible.
Similar safe driving tips apply for driving in icy or snowy conditions. Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready before driving in winter conditions.
Older Adults, visit the National Institute on Aging’s Older Drivers page for additional safe driving tips!
Current Road Conditions
Click here to check current road conditions with ODOT’s TripCheck
Access ODOT’s TripCheck map on the go with the “Oregon 511 Road Conditions” app on your smartphone.
Report Road Hazards
Have you encountered a road hazard such as a downed tree or powerline, large roadkill, or large pothole? Report these hazards to the relevant contact listed below. In an emergency always call 911.
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- Report downed, damaged, or endangered powerlines to Central Lincoln PUD.
- Central Lincoln PUD: (877) 256 – 3211
- Report downed trees and road debris (including roadkill) within the Florence City Limits to the Public Works Department during regular work hours.
- Florence Public Works Department: (541) 997 – 4106
- Florence Police Department Non – Emergencies: (541) 997 – 3515
- Report downed trees, road debris, disabled vehicles, roadkill, and other road hazards within Florence City Limits outside of regular work hours.
- Report downed trees, road debris, disabled vehicles, roadkill, and other road hazards on county roads.
- Lane County Sheriff’s Office: (541) 682 – 4141
- Report downed trees, debris, disabled vehicles, roadkill, and other road hazards on state highways.
- Oregon Department of Transportation: (503) 378 – 0457
- Report potholes, damaged signs, or other needed infrastructure repairs to ODOT.
- Ask ODOT: 1-888-275-6368 option 6
- Report large roadkill or injured animals on or near the roadway to Lane County Animal Services.
- Lane County Animal Services: (541) 844 – 1777
- Report injured animals on or near the roadway to Oregon Wildlife Commission.
- Oregon Wildlife Commission: (503) 947 – 6301
- ODOT Drunk Driving Hotline: *677 or 911
- Report downed, damaged, or endangered powerlines to Central Lincoln PUD.
Footnotes
[1] ODOT Car Unit – Initial Reported Motor Vehicle Traffic Fatalities – Year-to-Date: 2023