CHP Tips for Staying Safe for Fiesta
The California Highway Patrol gives you some friendly reminders to keep yourself and everyone else safe during the week of festivities. If you will be celebrating with alcohol, plan ahead and find a designated driver to get you home safely, or call a cab. Don’t leave your drink unattended for any period of
time. It only takes a split-second for someone to alter your drink with a drug that can incapacitate you. Never drink and drive. First time DUI offenses can cost in excess of $10,000.00. The Santa Barbara Area California Highway Patrol made 22 DUI arrests duringFiesta 2010.
With the influx of tourists and out of area drivers, it is imperative to pay attention while behind the wheel of a car. Keep distractions to a minimum and put down the cell phone. It’s just not worth it. “There are many factors that can distract someone, even momentarily, from the primary task of driving. Those could be the few seconds you need to react to something unexpected,” said Public Information Officer Jeremy Wayland. “But, the one distraction we all have control over is our cell phone. State law requires you to be using a hands free device if talking while driving,” Wayland noted.
If you will be getting around on foot, stay on the side walk. The safest place to cross the street is always a crosswalk or at a controlled intersection. Remember, pedestrians and bicyclists are never allowed on the freeway.
