CHP Targets Impaired Drivers Over Labor Day Weekend
As Labor Day weekend brings one of the final big travel weekends of summer, the California Highway Patrol is preparing for a 78-hour statewide enforcement effort focused on keeping impaired drivers off the road.
CHP’s Labor Day Holiday Enforcement Period begins at 6:01 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, and continues through 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7.
Throughout the weekend, CHP officers statewide will focus on identifying and removing impaired drivers while reminding motorists to make plans for a safe ride before celebrations begin.
The effort follows a Labor Day weekend last year that resulted in more than 1,200 impaired-driving arrests by CHP officers.
During the same 78-hour period, nearly 500 DUI-related crashes were reported statewide, resulting in more than 270 injuries and eight deaths, according to preliminary data from CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System.
“There is no excuse for driving impaired,” CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee said. “If you choose to drink or use a substance that affects your ability to drive, make a plan and stay out of the driver’s seat. Your decision could be the difference between everyone getting home safely and a tragedy that can change lives forever.”
Impaired Driving Isn’t Limited to Alcohol
CHP is also reminding motorists that driving under the influence doesn’t necessarily involve alcohol.
Cannabis, illegal drugs, prescription medications and even some over-the-counter medications can affect a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle and make quick decisions behind the wheel.
The Labor Day enforcement period coincides with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which runs through Sept. 7.
For those planning to drink over the holiday weekend, CHP recommends deciding how to get home before the celebration starts. Options can include choosing a designated sober driver, using a rideshare or taxi, taking public transportation where available or staying overnight.
People hosting gatherings where alcohol is served are also encouraged to make sure guests have a safe way home.
CHP is reminding everyone in a vehicle to wear a seat belt, regardless of how short the trip may be.
Motorists who see a suspected impaired driver are encouraged to call 911 and provide dispatchers with as much information as safely possible, including the vehicle’s description, location and direction of travel.
With Labor Day weekend bringing increased travel to roads throughout California, CHP’s message is simple: make the decision about how you’re getting home before getting behind the wheel.