CHP Offering Programs to Reduce Collisions

(Editor's Note: The following information was provided by the California Highway Patrol's Public Information Office.)

As the month of February comes to a close, our Bay Area communities have experienced numerous fatal collisions. These fatalities have been mostly attributed to one or more of the following: DUI, excessive speed, distracted driving, lack of proper seatbelt use. 

An additional concern is the involvement of fatalities involving pedestrians standing outside of their cars after mechanical failure or after relatively minor traffic collisions. Each life lost is an awful tragedy and in most cases avoidable. 

The California Highway Patrol is actively involved in numerous educational and preventative programs designed to educate the public and reduce the occurrence of collisions.   

Each year, throughout the state, the CHP provides classes and conducts programs for various ages and audiences.  For young drivers, the “Start Smart” class is offered at no cost to teens and their parents.  “Teen Impact” presentations and “Every 15 Minute” programs are presented at high-schools throughout the state.  

For senior drivers we offer our “KEYS” senior safe driving class at senior centers and various other locations.

Adults can benefit from our “Distracted Driving” and “Designated Driver” programs and presentations.  

To obtain additional information contact your local CHP Office and speak with a Public Information Officer.

As we continue to utilize enforcement and education in our efforts to reduce collisions, it is our desire for the motoring population to appreciate the significant impact that a single dangerous driving act can have.  

In regards to recent fatal collisions, Golden Gate Division’s Chief Teresa Becher stated, “In a split second, lives can be changed forever. Drivers must understand that many of the activities we conduct on a daily basis can be disastrous behind the wheel of a car.  Eating, reading, texting, cell phone-use, anything that divides our attention from the road ahead can be deadly.  Those things can wait.  Speed and seatbelt use, while frequently addressed, continue to be a factor in a majority of fatal collisions.  Slow down, buckle-up, avoid distractions.  It’s not worth it.”

For more news about Redwood City and surrounding areas, including unincorporated San Mateo County, follow us on Twitter and "like" us on Facebook.

Get Patched in daily by signing up for our newsletter.