PORTLAND, Ore. 16 Nov. 2023 – Oregon State Police is partnering with Portland metro area law enforcement agencies for high visibility saturation patrols Nov. 17-18, 2023. The multi-agency operation is meant to instill safe driving behaviors ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday travel period – one of the highest volume travel periods annually. Officers, deputies, and troopers will be present in the Portland metro area with a focus on state freeways and highways throughout Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties. Heavier traffic is anticipated on Nov. 18 before and after the Oregon State vs. University of Washington football game in Corvallis which begins at 4:30 p.m. Game day travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, leave early, and designate a sober driver. Patrols will emphasize Fatal-5 violations that are statistically shown to contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. Fatal-5 violations include: Speed; Occupant Safety; Lane Usage; Impaired Driving; Distracted Driving. “We know that speed, distracted, impaired, and other unsafe driving behaviors are major contributors to serious injury and fatal crashes. High visibility saturation patrols are one tool we use to influence driving behavior and reduce traffic crashes that can result in tragic outcomes,” said Capt. Kyle Kennedy, Oregon State Police. In addition to OSP, participating agencies include the Portland Police Bureau, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Hillsboro Police Department, and Beaverton Police Department.
