In this issue:

• April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month
• Teen Rural Road Safety
• Road Work Is Heatin' Up!
• Oregon Impact Toolbox
• Upcoming Events

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April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Distracted Driving Awareness

Distracted driving has become a deadly epidemic on our roads. Cell phone use — specifically, texting, talking, and social media use — has become the most common distraction.

Other risky actions include adjusting the radio or GPS, applying makeup, eating and drinking. By driving distracted, you’re robbing yourself of seconds that you may need to avoid a close call or deadly crash.

Drive Responsibly

In 2022, distracted driving killed 3,308 people. April, which is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, is a good time to regroup and take responsibility for the choices we make when we’re on the road. Follow these safety tips for a safe ride: 

• Need to send a text? Pull over and park your car in a safe location.
• Designate your passenger as your “designated texter” to respond to calls or messages.
• Do not scroll through apps while driving. Struggling not to text and drive? Put the cell phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of the vehicle until you arrive at your destination.

The Consequences

During a portion of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, from April 7 through 14, you may see increased law enforcement on the roadways as part of the national paid media campaign Put the Phone Away or Pay. This campaign reminds drivers of the deadly dangers and the legal consequences – including fines – of texting behind the wheel.

Take Action

• Remind your friends and family: If you’re in the driver’s seat, it’s the only thing you should be doing. No distractions.
• If your driver is texting or otherwise distracted, tell them to stop and focus on the road.
• Ask your friends to join you in pledging not to drive distracted. You could save a life. Share your pledge on social media to spread the word.

Teen Rural Road Safety

Road Work is Heatin' Up!

as We Roll into Spring and Summer Weather Conditions

Now that we're inching closer to warmer temperatures, construction around the state will begin to increase.

While there are many projects underway, some construction tasks require dry and warm weather, like striping or paving, so you may start to see more of our crews on highways near you!

To help you see where to go, we use blue signs and markers to show business entrances or accesses to parking lots. As a reminder, businesses are open during construction – and your support during this dusty time is appreciated!

When in doubt – look for blue to help guide you to a nearby business!

Why aren’t all the curb ramps in my community being fixed at the same time?

For most of our ADA curb ramp projects, we're grouping and rebuilding curb ramps in batches at various locations.

Why? Not all intersections or curb locations are the same. Some are construction-ready and others may have fire hydrants, utility boxes, utility poles, additional land requirements or require an environmental permit. These are things we consider when scheduling the curb ramp construction in each city.



The construction-ready locations are done first because they can be done immediately while those needing additional coordination or design will be part of a future batch or stage of construction. This is why an intersection with four corners might be completed at different times. 

Oregon Impact Toolbox:

Tools You Can Use

Oregon Impact has a variety of impairment goggles, often referred to as "drunk goggles" — powerful tools designed to simulate the effects of various impairments, such as alcohol or drug intoxication or drowsiness, by distorting vision, balance, and perception, these goggles offer a safe and eye-opening way to understand the challenges and risks associated with impaired functioning.

Here are some easy ways to use them in your community:

1. Educational Campaigns

Impairment goggles are widely used in schools, community events, and workplaces to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence. By attempting to perform simple tasks while wearing the goggles, participants gain insight into the risks associated with impairment.

2. Workplace Safety Programs

Industries that rely on heavy machinery or driving use these goggles to stress the importance of being sober and alert on the job.

Common activities with impairment goggles include:

• Walking a straight line
• Catching or tossing a ball
• Navigating an obstacle course
• Driving simulators to illustrate the risks of impaired driving

These hands-on experiences often leave a lasting impression, reinforcing the importance of staying sober and focused in critical situations.

The Bottom Line

Impairment goggles are more than just a learning tool; they are a conversation starter. By giving people a glimpse into what it feels like to be impaired, they inspire individuals to think twice about their actions and the consequences. Whether it’s for educational programs or professional training, impairment goggles are an innovative way to promote safety and awareness in our communities.

All our goggles are available for your use at no charge. Please reach out to Anna at anna@oregonimpact.org for reservations.

Remember: The safest choice is to always stay clear-headed, whether on the road or in daily life.



Upcoming Events

• May: National Youth Traffic Safety Month
• June: Bike to Work Day
• July: Speeding Catches Up With You

Drive Sober, Safe, and Happy!

from your

Friends at Oregon Impact