Final answer:
Drivers 18 and older in Oregon are legally required to use safety belts as a measure to protect both individuals and the common welfare, by reducing accidents resulting in serious injuries and their associated societal costs.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Oregon, drivers 18 years of age and older are required by law to use safety belts. This legal requirement is in place to protect individuals and society at large from the consequences of inside distractions and the potential harm caused when passengers do not wear seat belts. When drivers or passengers refuse to wear seat belts, the risk of injury in the event of an accident increases significantly, which can result in long-term medical care funded by societal resources.
The government intervenes by enacting seat belt laws to help reduce the number of accidents resulting in serious injuries. This intervention aligns with the broader goal of promoting the common welfare by minimizing the financial and social impact that these injuries can impose on the community.