On July 4th and during the long weekend of Independence Day in the United States, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will be implementing a “Maximum Enforcement Period” (MEP) throughout the state to prevent dangerous behaviors such as speeding and drunk driving.
The Independence Day “Maximum Enforcement Period” will start on Wednesday, July 3rd at 6 p.m. and will end on Sunday, July 7th at 11:59 p.m. All available officers will be on patrol to prevent reckless driving and traffic accidents.
According to the California Highway Patrol, speeding is the leading cause of traffic accidents in California. Therefore, during the entire “Maximum Enforcement Period,” CHP will be highly vigilant against any road behaviors that may pose a danger to the public, with a focus on speeding.
“Speeding is not only illegal but also life-threatening. Driving just one mile over the speed limit per hour reduces the driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of accidents,” said Commissioner of the California Highway Patrol, Sean Duryee. “We urge the public to choose safety over speed to ensure everyone gets home safely.”
Last Independence Day weekend, a total of 68 people lost their lives in accidents statewide. Nearly half of the fatalities within the California Highway Patrol’s jurisdiction were individuals not wearing seat belts.
Furthermore, during last year’s Independence Day MEP, the California Highway Patrol arrested 1,224 drunk drivers, equivalent to apprehending one drunk driver every five minutes.
The California Highway Patrol reminds the public that during the holiday period, it is important to designate a sober driver, utilize public transportation, or ride-sharing services to ensure the safety of oneself and others.
“The safety of the public is our top priority. Please drive at a safe speed, responsibly, and ensure that you and your loved ones arrive at your destination safely,” Duryee emphasized. #