CHP announce increase in presence and roadway patrols ahead of Memorial Day weekend

The California Highway Patrol announced that its Memorial Day maximum enforcement period is slated to begin 6 p.m. Friday and continue through the three-day weekend.

The stepped-up enforcement period continues through 11:59 p.m. Monday, with authorities paying particular focus on seat-belt usage and driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs, according to a news release. In 2019, CHP tallied 34 deaths due to traffic collisions and 1,099 arrests during the holiday.

CHP’s Valley Division reported three deaths and 111 arrests in 2019 during a 78-hour enforcement period. Statewide numbers from CHP documented 21 collision-related deaths in its jurisdiction, 10 of which were not wearing seat belts.

“No matter what else changes in our world, the people of California can always count on the CHP to provide the highest level of safety, service and security,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said in a statement. “We will continue to enforce the traffic laws, help motorists who are in trouble, and educate people about the dangers of distracted and impaired driving.”

Commissioner Stanley added that California’s stay-at-home order to combat the coronavirus had led to a drastic reduction in traffic, but that CHP officers have documented a notable increase in speeding motorists.

Maximum enforcement periods typically bring all available units onto the roadways to monitor traffic violations during holidays.

“The rules still apply, no matter how little traffic there may be,” Stanley said. “Obey the speed limit, fasten your seat belt, drive sober and put down your phone.”