CALIFORNIA - CHP stresses safety for survival THIS MEMORIAL WEEKEND..

OFF THE WIRE
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol is planning a special upcoming enforcement in Lake and Mendocino counties focusing on motorcycle safety and seeking to reduce impaired driving.
According to preliminary figures from the CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, more than 400 people were killed and nearly 12,000 people were injured in motorcycle-involved collisions in 2011, representing a nearly 20 percent increase in the death rate in California from the previous year.
“Operating a motorcycle or driving a vehicle while impaired can have deadly consequences,” said CHP Lt. Greg Baarts, commander of the Clear Lake office.
Lake and Mendocino counties provide a primary thoroughfare, linking Interstate 5 and US 101 via State Routes 20, 29 and 53.
These scenic and winding roadways are favored by thousands of motorcyclists, often while riding in special motorcycle-related events.
Alcohol is also commonly served at these events, which compounds the problem. Some of the visitors to nearby wineries also drive while impaired through Lake and Mendocino counties.
To address the issue, CHP’s Clear Lake and Ukiah Areas will conduct a joint grant-funded enforcement day on Friday, May 24, focusing on motorcycle safety and impaired driving.
Officers will be looking for violations made by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes.
They also will be cracking down on both those operating regular vehicles and motorcycles that are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or committing any other dangerous violation.
“I am hopeful the enhanced enforcement efforts directed towards ensuring motorcycle safety and removing impaired drivers from our roadways, will help reduce the number of injury collisions during the Memorial Day Weekend,” said Capt. Jim Epperson, commander of the Ukiah Area office.
Lt. Baarts provided some helpful advice to motorcyclists to help prevent being involved in a collision:
– Slow down. Speeding is the leading overall cause of injury or death in traffic collisions after driving under the influence. Did you know that even if you are a very good rider, but are speeding, others may often misjudge your speed when they pull out from a stop sign or side road?
– Be visible. Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time. Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night. Be aware of blind spots in cars and trucks. Don’t travel in the center of a lane.
– Use the proper protection. Wearing a proper Department of Transportation compliant helmet is the most important safety equipment. Helmets save lives by reducing head injuries in the event of a crash. It is also important to wear shoes, gloves, and protective clothing. Thick, protective gear not only provides comfort from the elements, but may also be all there is between you and the pavement in a collision.
– Don’t ride under the influence. Riding a motorcycle takes coordination, balance, and good judgment. Alcohol and other drugs can affect your ability to think clearly and ride safely.
Officers from both areas will be out in force patrolling US-101 and SR-20 in Mendocino County, and Highways 20, 29 and 53 in Lake County.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.