CHP to crack down on speeding, DUI over Fourth of July weekend
With Independence Day around the corner, the California Highway Patrol will have extra officers on the road in Stanislaus County and across the state to crack down on dangerous driving.
The agency’s holiday enforcement period begins at 6:01 p.m. Thursday and runs through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 6. The focus will be on stopping speeding, distracted driving and impaired motorists before they cause crashes.
“Reckless driving and speeding have deadly consequences,” CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee said in a statement. “It’s every driver’s responsibility to make safe choices behind the wheel.”
CHP officials shared recent figures to highlight the need for stepped-up enforcement. During a 24-hour statewide operation last month, officers issued nearly 18,000 citations, including:
More than 12,100 tickets for excessive speed
Nearly 860 citations for distracted driving
Close to 500 for seat belt violations.
Officers also arrested nearly 400 drivers suspected of being under the influence. Eleven people died in crashes during that same period.
Local officers are urging everyone to plan ahead for a safe holiday weekend. That means buckling up, slowing down, designating a sober driver and avoiding distractions behind the wheel.
Drivers who see an emergency or suspect an impaired driver are asked to call 911.
The CHP said its mission is to provide the highest level of safety, service and security on California roads.
