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We have previously written that California has some of the most stringent anti-distracted-driving laws in the nation. The majority of states have banned texting while driving, but California is one of about a dozen states to prohibit all drivers from using handheld cellphones behind the wheel. In order to remain in compliance with this law, […]

Americans have a love affair with alcohol. We associate it with nearly every major holiday and celebration; we drink it while watching sports; and social rituals surrounding drinking are almost too numerous to count. For the most part, enjoyment of alcohol is just fine. Many of us can drink in moderation and make beer, wine […]

There are good and bad drivers in every age group. Statistically speaking, however, the two age groups that are most dangerous behind the wheel are teenagers and elderly motorists. Teenagers tend to be more likely to be involved in car accidents due to inexperience and age-related traits like impulsivity. On the other hand, older drivers […]

We have previously written about the growing public awareness surrounding prescription drugs and how they can impair driving ability. One of the drugs most associated with this problem is the sleep aid Ambien. Earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration warned Americans that many people who take Ambien to fall asleep at night may […]

Here in the Bay Area, cars, bicyclists and pedestrians often need to share the same crowded streets. Unfortunately, motorists tend to have the final say when a given intersection is disputed. This, of course, results in a many bike and pedestrian accidents in Oakland and nearby cities. But when such an accident occurs, it is […]

Safety advocates and government regulators have been wrestling with one important question for quite some time: how can we reduce distracted driving on American roads? There is certainly the legal approach. California has some of the most comprehensive anti-distracted-driving laws in the nation. There is also the technological approach. App makers and tech innovators are […]

Properly restraining children in age-appropriate car seats is critical to ensuring their safety during travel. However, child car seats have become so complex, heavy and difficult to install that many parents are unknowingly placing their sons and daughters in danger by installing them incorrectly. In other cases, parents become so frustrated with the complexity of […]

Perhaps the biggest transportation-related news here in Oakland of late is the recent train accident that killed two people. The two victims, an employee of Bay Area Rapid Transit and a contractor, were struck by a train traveling at least 60 miles per hour while they were inspecting a section of track. The fatal train […]

A couple weeks ago, we wrote about a man who lost his life in a car accident while sleep-driving on the medication Ambien. This is one of the drug’s very rare side effects, but studies have shown that users of Ambien and other sleep aids may be too drowsy in the morning to drive safely. […]

California schools have been back in session for just over a month now. If they haven’t done so already, many high schools will be showing a new documentary that sends a powerful and compelling message. That message is: It only takes a few seconds to end your own life or someone else’s by texting and […]