SACRAMENTO,
Calif. – The California Highway Patrol
(CHP) and the California Office of Traffic Safety are partnering on a campaign
aimed at reducing the number of crashes caused by impaired drivers. The Impaired Driving Reduction (IDR) education and enforcement campaign,
which began October 1, 2021, continues through September 30, 2022.
In
2019, impaired driving crashes were responsible for 568 deaths and 11,444 injuries
within the CHP’s jurisdiction throughout the state. Each one of these injuries and deaths
represents a preventable tragedy and a continued need to focus efforts on
reducing impaired driving in California.
“This
grant will help support the Department’s mission by strengthening education and
enforcement efforts throughout the state,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray
said. “As a public safety organization,
we will continue to do everything in our power to promote safety for all on
California’s roadways.”
In 2020, more than
90,000 violations for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and/or drugs
were cited by CHP officers through California.
The IDR grant provides the CHP with funding to conduct additional saturation
patrols, checkpoints, and traffic safety education efforts throughout
California. These efforts are designed
to remove impaired drivers from the roadway and educate the public regarding
the dangers of DUI. Additionally, the
CHP will actively participate in California’s Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over public awareness campaign.
The
CHP wants to remind the public, “DUI Doesn’t
Just Mean Booze.” Alcohol, cannabis,
certain prescription and over-the-counter medications, illegal drugs, or any
combination can affect your ability to drive and will result in an arrest if
you are under the influence. Always make
good decisions and plan ahead by designating a sober driver, take public
transportation, or call a taxi or ride-share.
There is always a better option than getting behind the wheel while
impaired.
The
public is encouraged to call 9-1-1 if they observe a suspected impaired driver. Be prepared to provide the dispatcher a location,
direction of travel, and vehicle description.
Funding
for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic
Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety,
Service, and Security.
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