I just returned from the Oregon Trial Lawyers 2011 conference in Bend and had the great opportunity to network with some outstanding lawyers. I got the opportunity to talk to some great Multnomah County Judges. I cannot say how enthused one gets knowing that the trial jury system works here in Oregon and how important attorney client interaction is in order to get a good or great jury verdict.

Just came across new stats from USDOT stats which show the rate of traffic deaths on Oregon in the state of Oregon have reached their lowest point in history last year (as of 2010 year end). The reduction on wrongful deaths in Oregon from the stats appears due to higher seat belt use and more aggressive enforcement of drunk driving laws and the recession.

The stats show that Oregon traffic death fell 9.4% from 416 in 2008 to 377 in 2009 in the state of Oregon. Comparing Oregon’s traffic d3eaths to Washington state show a similar reduction as Washington fatalities dropped from 521 to 492 which is a 5.6 decline.

Portland School district policy provides (1) “No domesticated animals, including dogs, cats, primates, birds, or livestock shall be allowed in school buildings or on grounds while school is in session…” and (2) No animals will be allowed free range in the facility or grounds.

Dogs running freely without a leash is certainly against the law. The risk to students with parents bringing dogs to school is great. Most dog owners can’t appreciate the risk and most believe that their dog would never bite anyone – that is until it actually happens.

Dogs bite children and students frequently at school because pickup and drop off times are so chaotic.