Speed-related deaths are down

The California Highway Patrol recently concluded a study that showed deaths due to speedrelated collisions declined in 2008.

The study, "Saving Lives in California II," found that through September 2008 there were 255 deaths, compared to 2006 baseline totals of 290 deaths. The number of injuries had gone down, too, from 30,726 to 25,584.

The CHP used added enforcement, radar and light detection and ranging (LIDAR) to reduce collisions on highways and county roads.

Officers also enforced seat belt and child safety seat laws.

Funding for the project was provided by a $6.16-million grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.