Sacramento, CA – The California Highway Patrol is stepping up enforcement across the state this Labor Day weekend in an effort to reduce impaired driving and traffic fatalities.
According to the CHP, the annual Labor Day Holiday Enforcement Period began Friday at 6:01 p.m. and will run through Monday at 11:59 p.m. The initiative coincides with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, which continues through Sept. 1.
The CHP reports that over the past five years, Labor Day weekends in California have averaged 1,000 DUI arrests and 28 fatal crashes resulting in more than 30 deaths. Last year’s enforcement effort saw 61 lives lost, with 21 of those deaths allegedly linked to impaired driving. Officers also made 1,140 DUI arrests during the holiday period.
Officials say all available officers are being deployed to highways and freeways to identify and remove impaired drivers before crashes occur. The agency is urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspected impaired driving by calling 9-1-1.
“Your call could save someone’s life,” the CHP said in a statement, emphasizing its mission to provide the highest level of safety, service and security on California roads.
The enhanced enforcement is part of a broader strategy to reduce impaired driving during high-travel weekends. Authorities said they want to remind drivers that impaired driving is not limited to alcohol use and includes drugs, both legal and illegal.
The CHP stresses that motorists can expect zero tolerance for impaired driving as officers increase patrols and checkpoints throughout the state this weekend.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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