Oregon is a beautiful state full of lush greenery and unique laws that might surprise a newcomer. Avoid getting charged with a crime by learning about these three laws before you need a criminal defense law firm.
1. No sales tax
Weirdly enough, Oregon is one of the five states in the U.S that doesn’t have sales tax. The price on the tag is the price of the item. It certainly makes shopping a breeze. In the many years that the state has tried to re-vote on the issue, citizens have rejected it nine times.
2. DUII, not DUI
While, these acronyms essentially mean the same thing, driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII) is a phrase that isn’t used as often as the simpler, driving under the influence (DUI). Regardless, if you’re pulled over while operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher, you can be hit with a DUII. In fact, someone is injured because of drunk driving every two minutes in the United States. If you’re charged with a DUII, consider calling a local DUII law firm or criminal attorney to try to appeal the charges.
If it’s your first offense, it’s even more important to talk to a DUII law firm to discuss penalty options: you either go to jail or engage in community service. Additionally, you must pay a fine depending on your BAC with a maximum fine of $10,000. If you’re convicted, you also need to perform an interview to screen you for possible substance abuse programs that the driver has to pay for. Your DUII law firm will help you figure out the best method to handle the charges, and can tell you about the DUII Diversion Program.
3. Bikes and motorcycles can run red lights
In 2015, Oregon passed a law that allows bikes and motorcycles to run through red lights under the right conditions. This was a common complaint to officials by cyclists, as riders would get stuck at near-empty intersections since they don’t have the weight to trigger the sensors beneath the asphalt. If a light doesn’t turn after one full cycle, the bicycle or motorcycle is allowed to speed through at their own discretion.