Always Leave Yourself An Out
Motor vehicle accidents are increasing as more drivers are back on the road after the isolation of the pandemic. People are traveling to vacation spots and visiting family after being cooped up in their homes, and more employees are working at work instead of home offices. After 18 months of reduced time on the road, drivers are putting the pedal to the metal.
OPO has 43 years of experience handling motor vehicle accidents. Both our legal training and life lessons come into play. I remember taking drivers’ training when I was sixteen. The instructor was gruff, scary enough for this hopeful driver to pay attention every minute. His mantra of “always leave yourself an out” comes to mind every time I am on the freeway. He warned against driving in the lane closest to the center barrier because we would not be able to avoid a possibly catastrophic accident if no lane or shoulder allowed you to escape.
My kids have said that “always leave yourself an out” was something that I repeatedly preached when they were learning to drive. They knew my meaning but also apply it today beyond the driver’s seat. It also means to make sure you don’t get into a situation where you have no options. Be in control of your journey, both literally and figuratively.
Today, I do drive in the carpool lane when I have the opportunity. It is legal (with a passenger or on a motorcycle) and is provided to ease traffic burdens. Many times, however, I choose a different lane due to the possible risks of being next to the center barrier. I remember that I need to choose the path of my journey depending on the existing benefits and risks.
If you are in an accident, Owen Patterson & Owen is your “out.” It is the way to handle the aftermath of your accident which provides you with options. We make sure that you are able to control the path of your journey, navigating medical care, property damage, and the emotional upheaval that inevitably results from an accident while providing you with guidance based upon four decades of experience.
We hope your journey is a safe one. If you need us, we are here for you. Contact us at 661-799-3899 or at info@opolaw.com.
ADVERTISE WITH US
A Note From the Publishers – May 2026
May is one of those months that seems to arrive with a little extra sunshine and a full calendar—and we’re here for all of it.First and foremost, Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible moms, grandmothers, and mother figures in our community. Whether you’re...
Teeing Up for a Cause: Frontier Toyota Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Golf Classic
For more than 50 years, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital has been at the heart of healthcare in the Santa Clarita Valley, providing lifesaving care close to home for a community that continues to grow. This month, that mission takes center stage in one of the most...
Child & Family Center Presents: 37th Annual Taste of the Town – Sunday, May 3, 2026
Experience the Tastiest Event of the Year at Child & Family Center’s 37th annual Taste of the Town food and wine fest on Sunday, May 3. We are excited to announce we are at a new location – SoCal Innovation Park 25141 Rye Canyon Loop in Valencia. Santa...
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE
Santa Clarita Magazine has set a high standard for excellence in advertising for over 36 years. A family owned and operated business, Santa Clarita Magazine has grown with the Santa Clarita Valley since 1990 and become the #1 place to advertise locally.
FOLLOW US
SANTA CLARITA MAGAZINE
PO Box 801570
Valencia Ca 91380
For Advertising information
Call or Text: 1 (661) 294-4444



