Oregon Vulnerable Roadway User law
Oregon’s Vulnerable Roadway User (VRU) Law is not a stand-alone law. It is an enhanced penalty that can be levied when a driver violates Oregon’s Careless Driving law and in doing so causes physical injury to, or the death of, a vulnerable roadway user.
A vulnerable roadway user is defined in Oregon law as:
A pedestrian;
A highway worker;
A person riding an animal; or
A person operating any of the following on a public way, crosswalk, or shoulder of the highway:
A farm tractor or implement of husbandry;
A skateboard;
Roller skates
In-line skates;
A scooter; or
A bicycle.
If a person drives carelessly, meaning in a manner that endangers or would be likely to endanger ANY person or property then they can be charged with violation or ORS 811.135 with the VRU enhancement.The enhancement allows a court to sentence the driver to complete a traffic safety course and perform up to 200 hours of community service related to driver improvement.If the driver fails to perform the sentence the court is allowed to levy a fine of up to $12,500 and suspend the driver’s license for one year.
Charley Gee is a Portland personal injury lawyer.He focuses his practice on the representation of injured bicyclists and pedestrians in the Pacific Northwest.
Road safety rules are especially important for cyclists and other vulnerable road users, since even a small mistake by a driver can have serious consequences. It’s useful to understand how local laws define the rights and responsibilities of everyone sharing the road. If you’re unsure about the protections that apply in a specific situation, you can learn more about Oregon’s vulnerable roadway user rules.