Personal InjuryChula Vista Car Accidents Become Focus
Chula Vista car and pedestrian accidents, as well as an increasing number of drunk drivers, have forced the city to confront some sobering statistics. In 2006, there were nine car accident deaths in Chula Vista and 891 traffic accident related injuries, according to California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS).
Too many of these car accidents were car vs. pedestrian. From January 2003 to June 2008, Chula Vista reported 294 car collisions involving pedestrians. The pedestrian advocacy group "Walk San Diego," recently named the 10 most dangerous pedestrian intersections in the county of San Diego. Chula Vista's Broadway and H Street made the list.
"Regrettably, these dangerous intersections have often been neglected," said John Bisnar. "So the responsibility falls on pedestrians and drivers to be more aware of each other and to proceed with the utmost caution, particularly around schools."
Many Chula Vista car collisions are due to inattentive or distracted drivers. But an alarming 33% of the car accidents are caused by pedestrians. They often cross against red lights or "Don't Walk" signals. Others rush across traffic from the middle of the block in the absence of a crosswalk. Sadly, as many as 26 percent of car vs. pedestrian accidents involve teens under 16. Since so many school-age children are struck each year, Chula Vista's Engineering and Police departments have launched a new Pedestrian Safety campaign. The program includes brochures, banners, and increased enforcement measures, and it specifically addresses the need for increased pedestrian safety near schools.
Drunk drivers have also contributed to Chula Vista's car accident rate. A particular problem that seems to plague the city is repeat offenders. As recently as 2006, alcohol-related car crashes were responsible for three fatalities and 180 injuries. In fact, DUI arrests in Chula Vista's South Bay average about 800 to 900 each year. What makes matters worse is that these inebriated drivers are stopped dozens of times a year before they're placed under arrest. Fed up with these dangerous drivers roaming the streets, Chula Vista Police have zeroed in on the scofflaws in a new anti-drunk driving program. One that aggressively prosecutes drunk drivers and reaches out to the public--in particular, businesses and high schools--with a get-tough message that drinking and driving can be lethal.
"Programs like these, spearheaded by aggressive prosecution of repeat DUI offenders, can reduce the number of car accidents in Chula Vista," said John Bisnar. "Educating teens on the hazards and consequences of driving while intoxicated will help save lives and prevent serious injuries."
Immediately call an experienced and reputable Chula Vista Car Accident Lawyer for a free consultation at 1-800-561-4887 or contact the BISNAR | CHASE San Diego personal injury attorneys. Read more about car accidents in San Diego at the San Diego Car Accident Digest.
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