Portland & Multnomah County Traffic Tickets – What You Need to Know
Getting a traffic ticket in Portland or Multnomah County can be frustrating. Whether you were cited for speeding, running a red light, or careless driving, understanding Oregon’s traffic laws and your options is crucial.
Do You Need to Pay or Fight Your Traffic Ticket?
Many drivers assume they should just pay the ticket and move on—but that’s not always the best option. Depending on the violation, you could face:
✔️ Fines & Fees – Oregon traffic fines vary, but many violations cost hundreds of dollars.
✔️ Higher Insurance Rates – A single ticket can increase your premiums for years.
✔️ Potential License Suspension – Some violations, like driving over 100 mph, carry mandatory suspensions.
Fighting your ticket could help you reduce penalties, avoid a conviction, or even get the case dismissed.
Common Traffic Violations in Portland & Multnomah County
Multnomah County enforces various Oregon traffic laws. Here are some of the most common violations:
1. Speeding (ORS 811.100 & ORS 811.111)
• Basic Speed Rule (ORS 811.100) – Driving too fast for conditions, even if under the speed limit.
• Exceeding the Speed Limit (ORS 811.111) – Going over the posted speed limit.
• Higher speeds, especially over 30 mph above the limit, carry increased fines and harsher penalties.
2. Red Light & Speed Camera Tickets
• Portland uses automated traffic enforcement cameras at some intersections and high-risk areas.
• Tickets may be mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.
3. Failure to Drive Within Lane (ORS 811.370)
• Crossing lane markers without control.
• Often cited after minor drifting, lane weaving, or unsafe lane changes.
4. Careless Driving (ORS 811.135)
• Driving in a way that endangers people or property.
• Unlike reckless driving, this does not require intent, just unsafe driving behavior.
• Heavily fact-dependent—each case is judged based on circumstances.
5. Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device (ORS 811.265)
• Running a stop sign or ignoring a traffic signal.
• Includes turn violations and failing to yield.
If you receive a citation, you generally have three options:
1️⃣ Pay the Fine – This means pleading no contest or guilty, accepting the penalties, and possibly increased insurance rates.
2️⃣ Request a Hearing – You can contest the ticket in front of a judge. This is where legal arguments and defense strategies come into play.
3️⃣ Traffic School (Limited Availability) – Some drivers can complete traffic school to avoid a conviction, but CDL drivers are generally not eligible.
Important: Oregon traffic violations are not criminal offenses. The burden of proof is low—generally, the state only needs to prove the violation by a preponderance of evidence (51%).
Can You Beat a Traffic Ticket in Portland?
Common Factual Defenses Judges Reject:
❌ “I was going with the flow of traffic.”
❌ “The officer is lying.”
❌ “It was a speed trap.”
❌ “The officer was on private property.”
❌ “The officer didn’t show me the radar reading.”
Need Help With a Traffic Ticket in Oregon?
Don’t handle your ticket alone—get legal help today!
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