Heads Up! July 4th Holiday DUI Crackdown In Southland Begins Friday

LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CA - Authorities on Wednesday warned Southlanders that officers will be out in force during the three-day Fourth of July weekend looking for motorists driving while impaired.

The "maximum enforcement period" begins at 6:01 p.m. Friday and ends at 11:59 p.m. Monday, the CHP reported.

"All available officers will be watching for motorists who are speeding, distracted or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs," said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.

"Saving lives is always the first concern for our officers," he said. 'Motorists will help make everyone's holiday safer by driving sober, fastening their seat belts, and obeying the speed limits."

During the last year's holiday weekend, 26 people were killed on the state's roadways.

"Our officers would rather provide education and other aid to motorists than write tickets," Farrow said. "However, they will be looking for anyone who is driving impaired and posing a danger on the roadways."

People are urged to report drunken drivers by calling 911.

For the holiday weekend, also see:

• Fireworks Aren't So Festive For Your Pets
• DIY Pallet Flag Is Perfect, Easy Holiday Craft For 4th Of July Fun
• L.A. County July 4th Fireworks Guide 2016: Where To See The Shows
• Get Ready For a Sparkling 4th of July! Recipe For Easy 'Star-Spangled Sangria'

Also read: Local Gasoline Prices Rise For Ninth Consecutive Day

-- City News Service/Morguefile image