Crime & Safety

CHP Plans to Catch Thousands of Fourth of July Drunken Drivers

Extra cops will be on the highways from Wednesday night until Monday morning.

Written by Jacob Bourne

California Highway Patrol isn't messing around this weekend, knowing that Fourth of July festivities mean major alcohol consumption and an increase in impaired motorists.

With the holiday falling on Thursday this year, the party is going to last four days for some people.

Find out what's happening in Pacificawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"The CHP will engage in a Maximum Enforcement Period," the agency said Tuesday. "Officers will be focusing enforcement out on the road during the long holiday break, looking for motorists who are a danger to themselves or others on our state’s highways."

The flux of CHP cars on the highway will begin Wednesday at 6 p.m. and last until midnight Sunday.  

Find out what's happening in Pacificawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“We want the public to enjoy their family, friends, food and fireworks,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “However, that fun should not come at the expense of someone’s personal safety and the safety of those on the road with them.”

Nine people were killed on California highways during last year's Fourth of July weekend. 

During the 30-hour 2012 Maximum Enforcement Period, 479 DUI arrests were made across the state. If the same arrest rate per hour occurs this year, CHP will handcuff 1,628 drunken drivers. 

To avoid ending up in jail, seriously injuring yourself or someone else, follow these simple tips offered by the CHP: 

  • Use a designated driver.
  • Always wear your seat belt. 
  • Watch your speed. 
  • Plan ahead if you will drive long distances. 


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