SACRAMENTO,
Calif. – Wherever people choose to observe Independence Day, they can expect
the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to be out in force for a Maximum
Enforcement Period (MEP) from 6 p.m. on Friday, July 3, to midnight, Sunday,
July 5.
As
California gradually reopens, many people will be eager to celebrate the holiday
weekend with family and friends. To help
reduce the risk and slow the spread of COVID-19, the California Department of
Public Health is urging the public to avoid traveling long distances for
vacations or pleasure as much as possible. However, if you decide to leave home, take
steps to keep everyone safe like wearing face coverings, physical distancing,
and washing hands frequently.
"Should
the upcoming weekend include a road trip, stay safe and healthy with a few additional
precautions," said CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley. “Obeying speed limits, buckling up, and not
driving impaired or distracted will be more important than ever.”
Traffic
has been lighter on California roadways the past few months, which has resulted
in an increase in citations for excessive speed. Motorists are encouraged to take their time
this holiday weekend and arrive safely at their destination. During the recent Memorial Day MEP, CHP
officers issued 458 citations for speeding in excess of 100 mph, which is a 173
percent increase from the same period in 2019.
The 2019
Independence Day MEP was 4 ¼ days, which was two days longer than the upcoming
MEP. During that 102-hour enforcement
effort, 36 people lost their lives in traffic crashes, 21 within CHP
jurisdiction. Of those 21 individuals,
11 were not wearing seat belts. Additionally,
CHP officers made 1,317 arrests for driving under the influence.
“However
you choose to celebrate the weekend, do it without putting yourself or others
at risk,” added Commissioner Stanley.
The
mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and
Security.
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