On Friday at 6 p.m., the California Highway Patrol begins its
Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP), which continues through
Sunday at 11:59 p.m., according to the CHP.
On Friday at 6 p.m., the California Highway Patrol begins its Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP), which continues through Sunday at 11:59 p.m., according to the CHP.
The CHP’s announcement went on to note:
During this holiday weekend, CHP offices throughout the state plan for increased visible presence by deploying special enforcement teams, in addition to those who are already scheduled to work.
“The holiday season is all about having good times with family and friends, and about sharing and giving,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow, in the statement. “We want to make sure everyone enjoy their festivities, and therefore, our goal is to ensure you and your loved ones arrive at your destination safely.”
Drivers are reminded to always wear seatbelts, put children in appropriate safety seats, drive at a safe speed for various conditions, and never drink and drive during this holiday season.
“Officers will be on the road to ensure motorists celebrate the holidays in a safe, responsible manner,” added Commissioner Farrow. “If your celebration involves alcohol, please designate a non-drinking driver.”
Last year during the CHP’s Christmas holiday enforcement effort, 22 people were killed in collisions statewide; among the vehicle occupants killed within CHP’s jurisdiction, more than half were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. CHP officers also accounted for 1,104 arrests made statewide for driving under the influence (DUI) during the 2009 Christmas MEP.
The CHP will conduct a similar holiday enforcement effort during the New Year’s weekend which begins Friday at 6 p.m., and continues through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 2.
