CHP ‘LABORS’ DURING THE HOLIDAY TO
KEEP MOTORISTS SAFE
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As the country
readies for Labor Day weekend, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is reminding
motorists to employ lifesaving measures on the roadway.
The final three-day weekend of the
summer travel season is a national tribute to the contributions workers have
made to the strength, prosperity, and
well-being of our country.
In anticipation of the holiday, the
CHP is preparing for its annual Labor Day Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP),
which begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, August 29, and continues through 11:59 p.m.
on Monday, September 2. The Labor Day MEP also coincides with the ongoing national
drunk driving enforcement crackdown, “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.” If your Labor
Day celebration involves alcohol, ensure those plans also include a designated
driver.
“While many people will spend the
long weekend celebrating with their friends and family, the law enforcement
community will be on patrol working to keep the highways hazard free,” said CHP
Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Our main goal through this high-visibility
enforcement effort
is to prevent tragedies from
occurring.”
Last year during the Labor Day MEP,
49 people were killed in collisions on California roadways, which was a 40
percent increase from the same period in 2012. Tragically, more than 70 percent
of those killed in collisions within CHP jurisdiction were not wearing a seat
belt.
“Help us make the holiday weekend
safe for yourself and everyone by thinking about safety,” added Commissioner
Farrow. “Buckle up, drive at a
safe and legal speed, avoid
distractions, and designate a driver.”
Last year, CHP officers made more
than 1,200 arrests for driving under the influence. If you see a suspected
drunk driver, call 9-1-1. Be prepared
to assist the dispatcher by giving a
description of the vehicle, the license plate number, location, and direction
of travel. Before you call, be aware of your surroundings, especially streets,
highways, directions, city or nearest town within which you are calling. That
phone call may help save someone’s life.
The mission of the California
Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security
to the people of California.