SACRAMENTO,
Calif. – While the holidays are a time
of celebration for the public, they can also be a time of concern for the
California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the California Office of Traffic Safety
(OTS). The CHP and its public safety
partner, the OTS, are working together ahead of Independence Day to address
the crisis on California’s roadways by encouraging safe driving behaviors
through education and enforcement. “Reckless
driving is a serious concern on California’s roadways, and it is the
responsibility of CHP and OTS to help keep the public safe,” said CHP
Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Every year,
speed is the leading cause of roadway crashes in our state, resulting in thousands
of injuries and hundreds of deaths. Slow
down and help us make our roads safer for everyone.” To
help people arrive safely at their destination, the CHP will implement a
statewide Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) beginning at 6:01 p.m. on Friday,
June 30, and continuing through 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4. Throughout the extended holiday weekend, all
available uniformed members of the Department will be on patrol to enhance public safety, deter unsafe
driving behavior, and, when necessary, take appropriate enforcement action. “Maximum enforcement
helps save lives and protects everyone on our roads by holding drivers
accountable for dangerous, unlawful behaviors like speeding and impaired
driving,” said OTS Director Barbara Rooney. “Whether you are traveling near or far, make
a plan to go safely before heading to your destination. We want you and your loved ones to enjoy a
safe and happy Fourth of July weekend.”
Forty-four people were killed in crashes in California during last year’s
Independence Day weekend. In addition,
CHP made nearly 1,000 arrests for driving under the influence throughout the
78-hour holiday enforcement effort. Keep
yourself and others who are on the road safe by designating a sober driver or
using public transit or a ride-share service.
If you see or suspect an impaired driver, call 9-1-1
immediately. Be prepared to provide the dispatcher a description of the
vehicle, the license plate number, location, and direction of travel.
Your phone call may save someone’s life. “We
encourage you to safely enjoy your holiday weekend,” added Commissioner
Duryee. “Travel at a safe speed, avoid
distraction behind the wheel, buckle up, and drive sober. Rest assured, CHP officers will be working
diligently to protect those who are traveling on California’s roadways.” The
mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and
Security. |