Deadly Holiday Weekend Prompts CHP Blitz: See Startling DUI Stats

CALIFORNIA — Last year over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, 46 people were killed in crashes throughout California.

To help everyone reach their destination safely this Memorial Day weekend, the California Highway Patrol is preparing to implement a three-day statewide traffic enforcement effort, the agency said Wednesday.

Maximum Enforcement Period

Beginning at 6:01 p.m. Friday, May 24, the CHP will initiate a statewide Maximum Enforcement Period —MEP — to address the expected surge in holiday travelers on California roads. The MEP will continue through 11:59 pm. Monday, May 27.

"Loss of life on our roads is preventable when drivers make safe and responsible choices behind the wheel," said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. "Always remember to drive sober, avoid distraction, adhere to the speed limit, and ensure adults are buckled up and children are properly secured in an appropriate car seat."

Over the holiday weekend, the traveling public can expect a heightened presence of CHP officers on patrol with the goal being to enhance public safety by deterring reckless driving behaviors and taking necessary enforcement action when needed.

1 Arrest Every 4 Minutes

During the 78-hour Memorial Day MEP in 2023, the CHP recorded more than 1,100 arrests for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. That's an average of one arrest every four minutes.

"The CHP urges all drivers to make the right choices and avoid impaired driving," said Tami Grimes, a spokesperson at the CHP Headquarters in Sacramento. "Arrange for a sober driver, use ride-sharing services, taxis, or public transportation if you have been drinking."

You May Save Someone's Life

According to the CHP, if you encounter a driver you suspect may be impaired, you should safely pull over to immediately call 911. Callers should be prepared to provide the dispatcher with information about the type of vehicle, the license plate number, the location of the driver and their direction of travel.

"Your phone call may save someone's life," Grimes said.