CHP calls for a safe and sober fourth of July Holiday weekend
Fourth of July is around the corner and Californians love to celebrate the holiday with their loved ones and lots of fireworks.
But this festive day can turn tragic when someone decides to drink and drive.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) wants everybody in the Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito counties to have a safe and fun Independence Day weekend, but is also asking that everybody make safe and smart choices before drinking and driving.
According to a statement from the CHP they will be out in full force during the holiday weekend in efforts to reduce roadway deaths and prevent injuries. The Independence Day Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) begins on Friday, July 3, at 6 p.m. and will continue until midnight Sunday, July 5.
All available officers throughout the state will be on duty during the MEP to focus on occupant restraints, speed violations, and those driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
“This is a time for celebration, not tragedy,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Celebrate this Independence Day by having fun but also by being responsible in the choices you make.”
According to the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 765 people lost their lives (from 2008 to 2012) in collisions involving drivers with a Blood Alcohol Concentration of .08 or more. These fatalities account for 40 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities for this period.
According to CHP, last year 32 people we killed during the Independence Day weekend in California. Of those 32 people, 70 percent were not wearing a seat belt and more than 1,300 people were arrested by the CHP for driving under the influence.
“We want this year to be different, we want everyone to celebrate responsibly and get home safely,” said Commissioner Farrow. “Designate a sober driver before you head out to celebrate and do your part to make this a safe holiday for everyone on California’s roads.”
The CHP’S mission is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service and Security to the people of California.
