10/27/09 Bend
In this ‘You Ask, We Answer, Chris asks "Why are there no yield signs on all of the entrances to the parkway? Many drivers seem to think that they have the right of way when merging with oncoming traffic. I have seen very many close calls by drivers entering the parkway thinking that oncoming traffic has to get out of the way to allow them to merge."
According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, the cars on the parkway do have the right of way. You can get a ticket for failing to yield the right of way, but both drivers have to drive responsibly.
"The people on the parkway should be doing everything they can as considerate drivers, to allow this traffic to merge. The car trying to merge into the parkway has to be aware of everything that is going on around him," says Bill Chase with the DMV.
On state roads, the Oregon Department of Transportation decides where yield signs are placed.
Comments
entrances to Bend Parkway
Another hazard on this subject is that many of the on ramps merge into the Parkway at the point of curves, causing the existing traffic to be in the blind spot of those trying to merge in. Poor engineering. Several on ramps are too short also. Close calls cause the parkway drivers to quickly try to change into the left lane if they are lucky and no one is already there. Unfortunately, it's safer to stay in the fast lane even though the law says to use it only when passing. Also, heavier vehicles, such as trucks and RVs take much longer braking to a stop, so many times they have no escape should someone dart in front of them. Many drivers don't realize just how unsafe a practice it is to try to beat a heavier vehicle.
Todays drivers suck...
All Oregon drivers should have to re-test for a license at least every five years, written test every two years (in English, we are in America). I don't think many would pass the written test. Slow drivers in the left lanes, causing drivers to have to brake the law by passing on the right. Lots of drivers fail to follow the laws of the road. No common sense anymore...
parkway
I do not believe there is a law against driving in the left lane of the parkway. It is a parkway, not a highway or freeway. Is there a law against driving in the left lane on 3rd street as well?
Maybe this is another question for You Ask/Answer.