SALEM, OR – The Oregon State Police (OSP) will be enhancing patrol efforts along Oregon’s highways near Corvallis and areas in the annular solar eclipse viewing area this weekend. Both incidents are expected to bring increased traffic to Oregon’s highways and an increased risk of traffic collisions.
OSP’s presence will be focused on reducing and preventing DUIIs and Fatal-5-related traffic crashes. The Fatal-5 includes violations that are statistically proven to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. Categories include:
- Speed
- Occupant Safety
- Lane Usage
- Impaired Driving
- Distracted Driving
OSU Homecoming Game On Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, Oregon State University will host its annual Homecoming Football game against UCLA. This sell-out game is expected to attract attendees from all over Oregon, as well as out-of-state visitors. Game time is 5 p.m. and heavy traffic is expected three to four hours ahead of the game and for post-game travel. Large amounts of vehicle and foot traffic are also expected in the Corvallis downtown district. Troopers will be concentrating on traffic violations on roadways near the university and augmenting local agencies as needed.Annular Solar Eclipse Oregon sits in a prime viewing path for the Oct. 14, 2023, annular solar eclipse (Ring of Fire) which is expected to pass through the state at about 9:19 a.m. Southwest Oregon, including Klamath Lake and Crater Lake, have been identified as two of the premier viewing locations in the nation. The region is expected to see an influx of attendees from across Oregon and out of state for numerous eclipse day viewing events and a multi-day festival in Klamath County. Troopers will be focused on facilitating a safe travel experience for visitors throughout the eclipse weekend with the goal of reducing and preventing Fatal-5-related traffic crashes or crashes resulting from hazardous, reckless, or impaired driving behaviors.OSP encourages motorists to plan ahead as they get to and from planned destinations and offers the following safety tips:
- Know before you go
- Check road and weather conditions before you leave home.
- Have a map of your destination and share your travel plans with family and friends.
- Be self-sufficient
- Head out with a full tank of gas and fill up along the way.
- Bring water and snacks in case of prolonged highway travel or stops.
- Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in your vehicle.
- Appropriate clothing
- Layer up and have appropriate outwear in case of cold or rainy weather.
- If you’re headed to the annular solar eclipse, protect your eyes with eclipse glasses. Eyes and retinas can be damaged without proper eyewear.
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About the Oregon State PoliceOregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.