The California Highway Patrol’s Susanville Area Office recently wrapped up a highly successful 90-day enforcement campaign along U.S. Highway 395, a critical corridor stretching from the Oregon border down to the Nevada line through Lassen County and the Honey Lake Valley.
This targeted effort, conducted in collaboration with the CHP offices in Alturas and Quincy, focused on the primary causes of traffic crashes in the region, including speeding, unsafe passing, impaired driving, distracted driving and commercial vehicle violations.
The campaign’s results showed dramatic improvements in enforcement and a significant reduction in collisions. Law enforcement officers saw a 79% increase in DUI arrests compared to the previous three-year average for the same period. Violations for distracted driving skyrocketed by an astounding 850%, indicating a major focus on stopping this dangerous behavior. Similarly, speeding violations rose by 87%, highlighting the enforcement effort’s impact on a leading factor in serious crashes.
Crucially, the increased enforcement translated directly into safer roads. The campaign period saw a 50% reduction in property damage traffic crashes when compared to the three-year average. Most significantly, there was a 100% reduction in fatal crashes, a key metric that underscores the initiative’s success in saving lives.
Susanville CHP Commander Lacey Carney stresses that while enforcement is vital, safe driving is a shared responsibility. Carney urges all drivers to adopt safer habits: leave early to avoid rushing, be patient and wait for a safe passing lane, and never drive distracted—that text message can always wait.
She emphasizes the non-negotiable rule to never drive intoxicated and to always wear a safety belt, ensuring children are properly restrained. Furthermore, drivers should reduce their speed and increase their following distance between vehicles.
The CHP also encourages the public to partner in safety by immediately reporting reckless or suspected DUI drivers by calling 911 for CHP Dispatch 24/7.
