CHP increasing DUI patrols during Labor Day weekend
– The California Highway Patrol announced that all available officers will be on the road during Labor Day weekend as part of an enforcement effort targeting impaired drivers.
The CHP’s annual Labor Day Holiday Enforcement Period begins Friday, Aug. 29, at 6:01 p.m. and ends Monday, Sept. 1, at 11:59 p.m. The effort coincides with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, which runs through Sept. 1.
“Every available CHP officer will be on the road this Labor Day weekend with one mission: to stop impaired drivers before they harm themselves or others. If you choose to drive under the influence, expect to be stopped, arrested, and held accountable. No excuses, no warnings. Lives are on the line,” said Commissioner Sean Duryee.
Over the past five years, Labor Day weekend has averaged 1,000 DUI arrests statewide and 28 fatal crashes resulting in more than 30 deaths within CHP jurisdiction. During last year’s enforcement period, 61 people were killed, 21 of them in crashes linked to impaired driving. CHP officers made 1,140 DUI arrests during the holiday weekend.
The CHP is urging the public to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1.