LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol's Clear Lake Area Office reported Thursday that it has received a grant that it will use to address growing numbers of fatal motorcycle- and alcohol-involved crashes.

The CHP reported that last year fewer people in California were killed as a result of driving under the influence (DUI) or a motorcycle collision than in 2008.

However, while the news is encouraging, the agency said there is still more work to be done both statewide and locally.

Whether collisions or victims, motorcycle or alcohol-involved, Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System figures between 2001 and 2008 reflect a troubling upward trend in fatal and injury (reportable) crashes, according to CHP.

During this seven-year time span, reportable motorcycle-involved collisions in Lake County were up 144 percent, while reportable alcohol-involved crashes increased 13 percent.

“Operating a motorcycle or driving a vehicle while impaired can have deadly consequences,” said CHP Lt. Mark Loveless, commander of the Clear Lake Area office.

Lake County provides a primary thoroughfare linking Interstate 5 and U.S. 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 County, the CHP said.

To address the issue, CHP’s Clear Lake Area officers will implement a yearlong “Five Alive” grant-funded enforcement program focusing on motorcyclists and impaired drivers.

“Enhanced enforcement efforts directed at motorcyclists and impaired drivers, coupled with an aggressive public education and awareness program, should help reduce the number of fatal and injury collisions,” said Lt. Loveless.

In addition, the “Five Alive” program includes collaboration with other local law enforcement agencies to incorporate ongoing anti-DUI endeavors.

These endeavors include weekend patrols, air support, and warrant service operations targeting drivers with multiple DUI offenses, the CHP reported.

The agency said a public education and awareness campaign will also be conducted over the next 12 months.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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