Tag Archives: California Highway Patrol

Stay Sober or Get Pulled Over

Staff Reports

Chino- On August 26 a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint was conducted on Central Avenue between the hours of 8:00p.m. and 3:00 a.m. The checkpoint resulted in the following: 1080 vehicles screened, 3 DUI suspects arrested, 1 arrested for an active warrant, 21 drivers were cited/arrested for operating a vehicle unlicensed or while suspended/revoked, and 5 other citations were issued.

The Chino Police Department is showing their zero tolerance in driving under the influence with the goal to end drunk driving, and have also released the following information with the Labor Day Weekend here:

Sadly, this festive time has also become a dangerous time for America’s roads, as many drunk drivers get behind the wheel after celebrating. For this reason, the Chino Police Department is partnering with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to stop drunk drivers and help save lives. The high-visibility national enforcement campaign, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, runs August 19 – September 5, 2016. During this period, local law enforcement will show zero tolerance for drunk driving. Increased national messaging about the dangers of driving drunk, coupled with sobriety checkpoints and increased officers working DUI Saturation Patrols on the road, aim to drastically reduce drunk driving on our nation’s roads.

The Chino Police Department will deploy a DUI/Drivers License checkpoint and special roving DUI Saturation Patrols to stop and arrest alcohol and drug impaired drivers during the end of summer 18 day DUI campaign.  The DUI/Drivers License checkpoint will be on August 26 with DUI Saturation Patrols throughout the campaign. Police, Sheriff and the California Highway Patrol will be out looking for the tale-tell signs of drunk driving in order to stop and arrest impaired drivers throughout the region.

According to NHSTA, on average, over 10,000 people died each year (2010 to 2014) in drunk-driving crashes nationwide while California recorded 882 deaths. During the 2014 Labor Day holiday weekend (6 p.m. August 29 – 5:59 a.m. September 2), 40% of the fatalities in traffic crashes involved drunk drivers, which was the highest percentage over the five years 2010 to 2014. And nighttime proves to be the most dangerous time to be out on the roads: During the 2014 Labor Day holiday period, 83% of drunk-driving crash fatalities occurred between 6 p.m. and 5:59 a.m. – as compared to half of all drunk-driving crash fatalities throughout the rest of that year.

Additionally, 40% of crash fatalities on Labor Day weekend in 2014 involved drunk drivers (with blood alcohol concentrations [BACs] of .08 or higher), amounting to 162 lives lost nationwide and 20 in California. And we’re not just talking about a little bit of alcohol, either. More than a quarter (28%) of the crash fatalities that occurred on Labor Day weekend involved drivers with BACs of .15 or higher—almost twice the illegal limit.

“People need to understand that drunk driving is not only deadly, but it is illegal,” said Chief Karen Comstock. “Drunk driving is a massive problem in the United States, with more than 10,000 people dying annually. Drivers need to pay attention to their own driving, but also to others on the road who could be driving drunk,” she added. “It is your business. If you think you see a drunk driver, report them – call 911.”

The reality is that people aren’t invincible. Of the 9,967 people who were killed in impaired-driving crashes in 2014, 64% were the drunk drivers themselves. Those 6,391 drunk drivers thought they would make it to their destinations, but they didn’t.

Chino PD reminds everyone:

  • Plan a safe way home before the fun begins.
  • Before drinking, designate a sober driver.
  • Drivers are encouraged to download the Designated Driver VIP, or “DDVIP,” free mobile app for Android or iPhone.  The DDVIP app helps find nearby bars and restaurants that feature free incentives for the designated sober driver, from free non-alcoholic drinks to free appetizers and more.  The feature-packed app even has social media tie-ins and even a tab for the non-DD to call Uber, Lyft or Curb.
  • DRUGS, MEDICATION & ALCOHOL = CRASHES:  Recent statistics reveal that 30% of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems. A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14%) than did for alcohol (7.3%).  Of the drugs, marijuana was most prevalent, at 7.4%, slightly more than alcohol.
  • If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take your friend’s keys and help your friend make other arrangements to get to where he or she is going safely

As the summer winds to an end, remember that there’s no excuse for drunk or impaired driving.  Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

Independence Day Results Increased

Staff Reports

The Independence Day arrests and traffic deaths results have increased since last year. The Fourth of July Independence Day Maximum Enforcement Period covered a total of 78 hours from 6:01 p.m., July 2, to July 4, 11:59 pm. However, this year’s Independence Day Holiday Maximum Enforcement Period was 24 hours longer than 2015, which Police think may have attributed to the spike in arrests and fatal collisions.

The following details are results statewide and for LA County. The results include DUI arrests and fatal collisions.

Drunk Driving Arrests (CHP Only):
Statewide CHP DUI Arrests 2016: 1118
Statewide CHP DUI Arrests 2015: 930
Los Angeles County CHP DUI Arrests 2016: 211
Los Angeles County CHP DUI Arrests 2015: 207

Traffic Deaths:
Statewide 2016: 35 Killed
Statewide 2015: 26 Killed
Los Angeles County 2016: 6 Killed
Los Angeles County 2015: 2 Killed

The California Highway Patrol wants to remind you to think about the massive toll that drinking and driving causes. “Our goal is to help keep you safe, and to make California a great place to live, work and travel. The California Highway Patrol invests in your future by reducing fatalities, injuries, and crime. We always strive to provide the highest level of safety, service and security to all.”

For more information go to www.chp.ca.gov

IE News: Bus Crash Injures 21

Staff Reports

Highland– On Sunday, May 22, 22 people including the driver were on board a shuttle bus that was involved in a crash on High way 330 in Highland, according to the California Highway Patrol.

This shuttle bus was driving southbound on Highway 330 following a white Nissan versa, in which the bus rear-ended the vehicle, causing the shuttle bus to overturn. Apparently, this shuttle bus was one of many that were transporting women from Iglesia De Cristo Ministerios Llamada Final Church back home in Downey from a weekend women’s retreat in the Big Bear area.

According to CHP, of the 22 people inside the shuttle bus, 21 were treated for injuries and 4 were in critical condition without life threatening injuries. No reports of injury to the Nissan versa driver have been made thus far. The women have been transported to local hospitals, including St Bernardine Medical Center and Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, to be treated for injuries.

Until the area was further investigated and cleaned up, the roads were briefly closed at Live Oak and Highland Ave on Highway 330. No details at this time have been released as to what exactly caused the shuttle bus to overturn. There is speculation that either the breaks weren’t working properly or speed was possibly a factor, but again nothing released as to the exact cause.

Did You Know?

Courtesy of Google Images

Courtesy of Google Images

Not So Fast, Not So Furious 


Courtesy of the California Highway Patrol
From Greased Lighting to Eleanor, street racing has been woven into the fabric of Southern California both in real life and the movies. What is the allure of street racing?

Those involved have said it’s an adrenaline rush similar to being on a roller coaster. The only difference is you are safely strapped into a roller coaster that has a beginning and an end. When you mix thousands of pounds of a vehicle with speed, it only takes a second for tragedy to occur. What is the draw for young people to street race even though many admit to the dangers and consequences? For many young people, it’s the sense of belonging to a select group, for some it’s a way to find some semblance of an identity they long for, and for others it’s the thrill of doing something that’s on the verge of recklessness.
Street racing is always illegal and extremely dangerous to both participants and onlookers. The California Highway Patrol actively investigates street racing and takes enforcement action whenever possible. The CHP has partnered with several allied agencies to combat the issue of illegal street racing. This partnership has led to arrests, vehicle impounds and citations.
Here are just a few hazards associated with street racing:

  • Some people think a vehicle is a toy and when used in this manner it becomes a deadly weapon.
  • Street racers often don’t wear safety belts and sometimes have been drinking or using illegal drugs.
  • Racing should only be done on a dedicated track, not on public roads were accidents can occur.

If you engage in street racing, remember these possible consequences:

  • Jail or prison time
  • Injury resulting in death
  • Injury to yourself or others
  • Damage to property

The community’s concern makes a big difference. Anyone who hears about a street race, planned or already taking place should advise the CHP promptly. We’ll take it from there.
The CHP wants to remind you-don’t live your life a quarter mile at a time, you might not ever get a chance to cross the finish line. For more information, visit http://www.chp.ca.gov.

Traffic Safety Tips For Thanksgiving Weekend

Courtesy of the California Highway Patrol

Southern California- Nearly 42 million Americans will take a holiday road trip this Thanksgiving (AAA). Thanksgiving weekend, traditionally one of the busiest travel times in America, can also be one of the deadliest.

In 2014, over the Thanksgiving weekend, 45 people died in collisions on California roadways – a 36 percent increase from the same period in 2013. In addition, the CHP arrested almost 1,000 people for driving under the influence.

The California Highway Patrol will have all available officers on patrol during a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) to help avoid tragedies for California motorists. The MEP will begin Wednesday, November 25, at 6 p.m. and continue through Sunday, November 29, at 11:59 p.m.

Here are some tips to help you arrive safely to your destination:

Anything that diverts your eyes or attention from the roadway, even for 1-2 seconds, could result in tragedy. Stay off your phone!

The law is explicit: Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or more is illegal, but even with a lower BAC a driver may be a hazard and taken to jail.

Prepare for potential inclement weather by leaving early, allowing plenty of time to get your destination. If you’re heading to mountain country or anywhere you may encounter snow, bring chains, a chain tightener tool, and warm waterproof clothing.

Other items which may prove useful: flares, flashlight and strong batteries, small shovel, windshield scraper, blankets, drinking water and snacks.

Check in advance for road conditions by calling: 1-800-427-7623 or go to http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urges “Buckle Up America – Every Trip. Every Time.” Nationwide, more than half the drivers and passengers killed in crashes are not wearing seat belts. The NHTSA estimates that nationally, seat belts saved the lives of 12,854 passenger vehicle occupants in 2013.

“Having a safe Thanksgiving drive this year—and being here to enjoy next Thanksgiving—can be as simple as buckling up,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said.

From the California Highway Patrol, Southern Division, we wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.

CHP Receives Federal Funding to Improve Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety

Courtesy of CHP
SACRAMENTO – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has received a federal grant to improve the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists throughout California. The grant furthers the Department’s mission to help save lives, with a focus on the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists.
“We are asking drivers to be courteous and alert to pedestrians and bicyclists on the roadways,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said. “This grant will help us increase traffic safety by providing more education for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.”
California has seen an increase in the number of traffic-related pedestrian and bicyclist collisions. The most recent data from the CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System reveals 752 pedestrians and 164 bicyclists were killed in collisions statewide in 2013, a 6.6 percent increase in pedestrian fatalities and a 10.6 percent increase in bicyclist fatalities from the previous year.
The California Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Enforcement and Education Project III grant runs from October 1, 2015, through September 30, 2016. During this 12-month statewide campaign, CHP officers will use pedestrian and bicyclist collision information to enhance enforcement and public education campaigns. Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The CHP’s enforcement efforts will include California’s 3-Feet for Safety law, which requires drivers to keep a minimum distance of three feet between any part of a motor vehicle and a bicycle.
The CHP’s educational efforts will include presentations that promote safe pedestrian, bicyclist, and motorist behavior; bike rodeos; and distributing pedestrian and bicycle safety materials.

Fallen CHP Officer Honored With Highway Designation

Photo Courtesy: Cahp.org

Photo Courtesy: Cahp.org
William B. Wolff, III

Staff Reports

Los Angeles County – On Mon., July 13, a resolution was passed designating the 1-10 and I-605 Interchange in Los Angeles County as the “CHP Officer William B. Wolff III Memorial Interchange.”  Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 86 recounts the lifetime accomplishments of Wolff, who was a father, husband, veteran, and a proud officer of the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

ACR 86, authored by Assembly member Roger Hernández (D-West Covina), passed the Assembly Committee on Transportation with bipartisan support. The resolution designates that, “Officer Wolff exemplified true selflessness and leadership as a member of our community,” said Hernández.  “It is a true honor to carry a resolution memorializing his valiant public service and the sacrifices he has made for the State of California and the San Gabriel Valley.”

Born on Jan. 22, 1946, Officer Wolff graduated high school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and received his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Cal Poly Pomona.  Upon graduation, Wolff served in the United States Navy and later as a vocational nurse. His desire to continue serving on behalf of the public led him to pursue a career and life as an officer of the CHP.

Wolff was killed in the line of duty on Dec. 30, 1977, when he was struck by a drunk driver while making a traffic stop.  Officer Wolff is survived by his two children, Eric and Carrie Ann, and granddaughter, Kaylee Rose.

This resolution is sponsored by the California Association of Highway Patrolmen, the labor organization that represents California Highway Patrol Officers.

 

New Bicycle Safety Law

CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL

Sacramento – With children heading back to school, motorists should expect to see more children riding to and from school on

(photo courtesy: expatica.com)

(photo courtesy: expatica.com)

their bicycles. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) would like to remind the public that on Sept. 16, 2014, a new law affecting motorists and bicyclists takes effect. According to the law, a driver must allow three feet of distance when overtaking or passing a bicyclist. If three feet is not available, a driver must then slow to a safe speed and pass when no danger is present.

“Motorists are reminded to pay close attention as the school year approaches and exercise caution when they see bicyclists on the road,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Be sure to move over or slow down to pass when you see a bicyclist on the road and help keep our roadways a safer place.”

According to data from the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, in 2012, there were 153 bicyclists killed in California, which reflects a 7 percent increase from 2011. Those deaths accounted for 5 percent of the total collision fatalities in California. “As important as it is for vehicles to be mindful of our bicyclists, those who ride must exercise safe practices and ride smart,” added Commissioner Farrow. “With both drivers and bicyclists doing their part, we can help reduce the number of tragedies involving bicyclists.”

The danger surrounding motor vehicle traffic is just one aspect of a child’s safe passage to and from school. According to Safekids.org, more children ages 5 to 14 are seen in emergency rooms for injuries related to bicycling than any other sport. Bicycle helmets, which are required by law for children under 18 years of age in California, can reduce the risk of severe brain injuries by 88 percent – yet only 45 percent of children 14 and under usually wear them.

The CHP joins with Safekids.org in offering the following traffic safety tips for bicyclists:

  • “Use your head, wear a helmet.” It is the single most effective safety device available to reduce head injuries and deaths from bicycle crashes.
  • Tell your children to ride on the right side of the road with traffic, not against it. Stay as far to the right as possible.
  • Use appropriate hand signals and obey traffic signals, stopping at all stop signs and stoplights. Teach your children to make eye contact with drivers. Bicyclists should make sure drivers are paying attention and are going to stop before they cross the street.
  • When riding at dusk, dawn, or in the evening, be bright and use lights – and make sure your bike has reflectors as well. It is also smart to wear clothes and accessories that have retro-reflective materials to improve bicyclist visibility to motorists.
  • Actively supervise children until you are comfortable that they are responsible to ride on their own.

 

The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California.

ERHS to Host “EVERY 15 MINUTES” Program

Information Courtesy City of Eastvale

 Attention Residents:

Eleanor Roosevelt High School (ERHS) will be hosting the Every 15 Minutes Program on March 20th and 21st. This is a two day event that informs students of the dangers associated with drinking and driving. On March 20th, part of Scholar Way will be closed and a simulated drunk driving collision will be staged in front of our school between 9:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. All residents will still have access to their homes as well as our school. All emergency services from the area will be participating in this event including a helicopter from Mercy Air.

On March 21st, the second portion of this event will be hosted in the ERHS gymnasium. We are excited that we received a $10,000 grant from the California Highway Patrol in order to bring this program to our school. We are working closely with the city to communicate this event to local residents so that they can prepare for temporary road closure to Scholar Way.

There is always a balance of how you announce an event like this. You do not want to over communicate it early and you also want to make sure that local residents know what is happening. I appreciate your understanding with this.

This will be Eleanor Roosevelt’s second time hosting the Every 15 Minutes Program and we are looking forward to see what we can continue to do to make our end of year events as safe as possible for our students. We appreciate your support and if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 951-738-2100.

EVERY 15 MINUTES Program at Eleanor Roosevelt High School

Every 15 Minutes is a community-based program focusing on high school juniors and seniors challenging them to think about the dangers of drinking and driving, the importance of personal safety, the responsibility of making mature decisions, and the impact their decisions have on family, friends, and many others in the community.

Dates: March 20th and 21st from 11:10am-12:15pm both days.

Notice to the community: Road closure on Scholar Way on Thursday, March 20th, for a simulated collision. Blackboard Connect message will be sent home; Flyers will be posted.

This is a community-based program in which the community, as well as, the schools share the interest in educating high school students about the dangers of drinking and driving. As a result, the following local agencies are involved:

  • American      Medical Response 
  • California      Highway Patrol 
  • California      Office of Traffic Safety 
  • Cal      Fire, Riverside County 
  • City      of Eastvale 
  • Corona-Norco      Unified School District 
  • Eastvale      Police Department 
  • Mercy      Air 
  • Riverside      Sheriffs Department 
  • Riverside      Community Hospital 
  • Riverside      County Coroner’s Office

Participants: Twenty-one (21) students have been selected through an application process. These students will play the role of the living dead. They are representatives of the student body.

Funding: ERHS received a grant of $10,000 from the California Office of Traffic Safety and the California Highway Patrol.