Should I call 911 or 311 about a reckless driver? Roadshow
Plus, why do CHP cars swerve in front of traffic?
Q: I have been an avid reader of your column for about 30 years and love your insights! Today, I was on Interstate 280 north in the exit lane for Southwest Expressway and a crazy driver sped past me on the shoulder, nearly hitting me. He proceeded to tailgate the car in front of him until he was able to pass on the expressway. He then pulled in front of and brake-checked that car. Next, he turned north onto Fruitdale and sped off.
In this situation, should I have called 911 or 311 (the non-emergency line)?
Kate Drayson, San Jose
A: Call 911 in a situation like this. They’ll listen and make the decision about whether it should be rerouted to 311.
Q: Interstate 580 east of the Bay Bridge in Oakland has become a raceway, with cars and trucks routinely blazing in and out of lanes to maintain dangerously high speeds.
This is a very dangerous stretch of the highway, yet 100% neglected by CHP. Only extremely rarely do I see CHP here. I have never seen a speeder pulled over. What gives?
I have another question. Three times in the last month, I have seen the CHP use a swerving technique in front of highway traffic. What’s this called? I used to think this was to reduce speeding. But the other day I was traveling the speed limit, along with everyone else, and in my rearview mirror, saw the CHP swerving. Was this done for another reason, as it seemed no one was speeding?
Hilary Winslow, San Francisco
A: On your 580 question, the CHP runs periodic crackdowns in problem areas like this.
As for your second question, that CHP maneuver is a rolling roadblock, or a traffic break. It is used to slow traffic when there are known issues ahead — like debris in the road, or a wreck, or emergency repairs — and traffic needs to be slowed before it reaches that point on the highway.
Q: Do you know when Wildcat Canyon Road is scheduled to be repaired? It sure makes a long-around for friends in the eastern regions! I can find information from Contra Costa County on the project, but no timeline.
Caroline Kane
A: The Contra Costa County Public Works Department is completing its assessment of damage to Wildcat Canyon Road. They are beginning the design of the new retaining wall and working to complete required environmental clearances for construction. They anticipate a summer 2025 construction date, but are trying to advance it to 2024. For the public’s safety, the roadway will remain closed to all users until the repair is complete.
They have updated road closure news item on their website and have created a project webpage where they will add updates, as they become available.
Look for Gary Richards at facebook.com/mr.roadshow or contact him at mrroadshow@bayareanewsgroup.com.