Yuba-Sutter traffic deaths increased in 2008

Twenty-six people died in 24 traffic collisions in 2008, an increase of six over 2007 but one less than in 2006, according to year-end statistics released Friday by the Yuba-Sutter office of the California Highway Patrol

Yuba-Sutter CHP spokesman Jeff Larson said the statistics indicate the CHP's progress in enforcement when population increases are taken into account.

Ten of the collisions were in Yuba County and 14 were in Sutter County. Ten were on state highways, Larson said.

Twelve of the victims last year were not properly restrained, compared to nine in 2007 and three in 2006, he said.

"The Yuba-Sutter CHP will aggressively enforce restraint laws in 2009. Wearing a seat belt properly significantly increases your chances of surviving a collision," Larson said.

Six of the fatalities were related to driving under the influence, compared to one in 2007 and 10 in 2006.

In 2008, 590 impaired drivers were arrested, compared to 586 in 2007 and 613 in 2006.

Total collisions were down to 1,182 from 1,440 in 2007, and from 1,544 in 2006.

"I am absolutely certain that our enhanced efforts in the areas of speed, DUI and restraint enforcement are saving lives, in spite of the dramatic population increases in Yuba and Sutter counties," Larson said.

Comparative statistics for Yuba-Sutter CHP

Year     Deaths     DUI Arrests     Collisions

2008     26             590                     1,182

2007     20             586                     1,440

2006     27             613                     1,544

The California Highway Patrol is responsible for state highways and unincorporated areas