“We hope to accomplish our goal by educating motorists about the leading causes of traffic collisions"

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – The California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Valley Division and Golden Gate Division, having jurisdiction over the Sacramento regions and San Francisco Bay Area, are partnering to participate in “Saturation Saturday.”

This effort aims to reduce speeding and reckless driving as well as taking impaired drivers off the road along Interstate 80 from San Francisco, Calif. to the California/Nevada Stateline on Saturday, February 13, 2021, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  This will be accomplished by enhancing traffic safety, enforcement, and education along this section of Interstate 80. 

The CHP Valley and Golden Gate Divisions are asking motorists to slow down and never drive impaired by promoting awareness and safe driving.  During “Saturation Saturday” the CHP will increase traffic safety operations to educate and, if necessary, take appropriate enforcement action on drivers who violate traffic laws along Interstate 80 from San Francisco through Berkeley, Vallejo, Davis, Sacramento to Truckee, and all the way to the Nevada Stateline.

“We are pleased to partner with CHP Golden Gate Division in challenging all motorists to drive safely,” said CHP Chief Mike Dust. “We hope to accomplish our goal by educating motorists about the leading causes of traffic collisions and encouraging motorists to follow the rules of the road and drive safely.  “Please remember to drive sober, avoid distractions, always buckle up, leave plenty of time to reach your destination, and consider the possibility of inclement weather.”

Impaired driving, whether by alcohol, legal drugs, or illegal drugs, can result in a DUI arrest.  A slowed reaction due to medication is as dangerous as any other impairment and will increase the risk of a traffic collision.  An impaired driving arrest can also mean a significant financial impact.  The fine for a first-offense DUI along with associated costs can total more than $15,000 in California.  If you see an impaired driver, call 9-1-1 when you can do so safely.

The CHP reminds motorists to follow these basic traffic safety rules: always wear a seat belt, drive at a speed safe for conditions, eliminate distractions while driving, and always designate a sober driver.