Drivers Urged to Use Headlights on 118

Concerned that few motorists are turning on their headlights along a dangerous stretch of California 118 from Moorpark to Saticoy, Ventura County authorities on Wednesday urged drivers to adhere to the lights-on law.

Standing on the shoulder of the 16-mile highway, California Highway Patrol Capt. Richard Owen and Supervisor Judy Mikels held a news conference to remind motorists to switch on their lights. Mikels heads the California 118 Safety Task Force.

From 1995 to 1997, 331 accidents occurred along the highway, resulting in 11 deaths, said CHP Officer Dave Cockrill. Each day, about 19,300 motorists drive along the two-lane highway, he said. But only about 10% of the motorists use their lights, he added.

Three years ago, the county launched a program to educate people about the importance of daytime headlights along the route to help prevent collisions. Lights-on signs were posted and patrol was beefed up along the highway.

“We’re trying to draw attention to the law,” Cockrill said. “Our ultimate goal is the safety of motorists.”