'Maximum Enforcement Period' Planned For Memorial Weekend: CHP

CALIFORNIA — This Memorial weekend, Californians are reminded to keep their eyes on the road and their hands at 10 and two. The California Highway Patrol announced it is enacting a Maximum Enforcement Period from 6 p.m. Friday to 11:59 p.m. Monday.

CHP officers will step up patrols throughout the state and monitor for seat belt violations, distracted driving, speeders, and anyone suspected of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

During last year’s MEP, CHP officers arrested 979 drivers on suspicion of drunk or drug-impaired driving, the agency said. Thirty-five people died in crashes during last year’s Memorial Day MEP, and 63 percent of vehicle occupants killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts. Travelers are also reminded that state law requires children under 8 years old to be safely secured in the back seat.

“Memorial Day should be a time for honoring our fallen heroes and spending time with loved ones,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said in a statement. “It should never be marked by tragedy caused by car crashes. Please buckle up, follow all traffic laws, and arrive at your destination safely.”

The Auto Club of Southern California expects more than 2.6 million drivers on the road this weekend, an increase of 11 percent from 2021, but still down 8 percent from pre-pandemic levels.