Salem, OR – Drivers traveling through Central Oregon today should expect an increased law enforcement presence along major highways as Oregon State Police conduct concentrated safety patrols targeting commercial motor vehicles.
According to Oregon State Police, troopers are partnering with local police agencies, the Oregon Department of Transportation, and the Washington State Patrol for a one-day enforcement effort on Thursday, December 12. The operation focuses on improving safety along the U.S. 97 corridor and connecting routes that see heavy freight traffic.
Troopers from Klamath Falls north to The Dalles are participating, with patrols emphasizing compliance on U.S. 97, U.S. 20, Oregon Route 126, and Oregon Route 58. These highways serve as primary freight corridors across Deschutes, Klamath, Jefferson, and Wasco counties, linking Southern Oregon with Central Oregon and the Columbia River Gorge.
OSP officials said the effort highlights enforcement of the agency’s “Fatal 5” driving behaviors, which are linked to serious injury and deadly crashes. The priorities include speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, failure to wear seatbelts, and unsafe lane usage such as following too closely.
While the patrols place a special emphasis on commercial motor vehicles, passenger vehicle drivers are also subject to enforcement. Officials say the goal is not only enforcement but deterrence during a busy holiday travel period when traffic volumes increase statewide.
Drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time, obey posted speed limits, maintain safe following distances, and stay alert when sharing the road with large trucks. Law enforcement officials say even minor violations can have severe consequences when heavy commercial vehicles are involved.
Anyone traveling through Central Oregon today may notice more marked patrol vehicles and traffic stops, particularly during peak daytime travel hours.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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