I would have posted the EPD press release on traffic collisions earlier but was too busy avoiding an impatient driver on Myrtle when I had right of way

By now, you have read and seen the press release and photos of traffic collisions issued by EPD Commander Leonard LaFrance at 3:18 p.m. When he sent that email to media, he said, "We’ve now had at least 3 injury traffic collisions today."

I would have posted earlier but was busy crossing the traffic light on Myrtle near the temporarily closed fire station where an impatient truck driver with tools and a ladder in his pick up almost ran me over. The pedestrian walk sign was on, I had right of way but that intersection on Myrtle has the worst drivers.

Commander LaFrance wrote an excellent press release. Too bad that the fools who need to read it; especially the last eight lines are selfish, irresponsible and endanger others.

EPD Press Release:

On December 29, 2025, at approximately 11:15 a.m., EPD Patrol Officers responded to the intersection of H Street and Hodgson Street following a report of an injury traffic collision.

Upon arrival, officers located a collision involving three vehicles, one of which had rolled over. At least one individual sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital; the injuries appeared to be non-life-threatening. Preliminary investigation indicates the collision was caused by one of the drivers failing to yield to oncoming traffic. 

Alcohol or impairment do not appear to be a factor. This incident remains an active investigation. 

Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information that may assist investigators is urged to contact the Eureka Police Department at 707-441-4300 (Officer Sollom). 

This collision underscores an ongoing concern for traffic safety within our community. Compared to 2024, during the first eleven months of 2025, EPD increased traffic enforcement efforts by 233%, from 2,415 traffic stops to 8,060. These efforts include addressing speeding on major roadways, distracted driving, unsafe driving behaviors, driving under the influence, and reckless driving. 

EPD has also taken steps to arrest drivers operating vehicles at dangerous speeds and in a reckless manner throughout the city. In addition to enforcement, EPD has launched public awareness efforts such as the Slow Down Eureka campaign, increased transparency by sharing information about significant collisions, and ongoing advocacy for improved traffic control measures at high-risk locations. 

Despite these efforts, overall traffic collisions have only decreased slightly (by approximately 3%) and officers continue to observe dangerous driving behaviors that negatively impact the safety and well-being of our community. 

EPD no longer has a dedicated Traffic Unit, meaning traffic enforcement is handled by a small number of Patrol Officers (often only four to six) who must balance these efforts while responding to emergency calls across the city. Despite these limitations, EPD remains committed to improving roadway safety; however, enforcement alone is not enough to address the ongoing challenges we face. We need the community’s help. 

Drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists all play a critical role in roadway safety. We ask everyone to slow down, remain alert, be patient, and follow the rules of the road. Take extra time to look both ways (more than once) before entering intersections, and pause briefly when a traffic light turns green to ensure it is safe to proceed.