The California Highway Patrol (CHP) this week announced that it will have all available officers on patrol during a Maximum Enforcement Period to help California motorists avoid tragedies. The enforcement period will extend through 11:50 p.m. Sunday.
The American Automobile Association reports that nearly 42 million motorists will take to the highways this holiday weekend; this is traditionally one of the nation’s busiest travel times. Last year over the Thanksgiving Day weekend, 45 people died on California roadways; a 36-percent increase from the same period in 2013. The CHP last year arrested about 1,000 people for driving under the influence.
The CHP offers tips to help motorists arrive safely at their destination:
—Anything that diverts your eyes from the roadway—even for one or two seconds—could result in tragedy. Stay off the phone.
—The law is explicit: Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or more is illegal. Even a lower BAC can cause driver impairment and result in jailtime.
—Prepare for potential inclement weather by leaving early, allowing plenty of time to get to your destination. If you’re heading to the mountains or anywhere you may encounter snow, bring chains, a chain tightener tool and warm, waterproof clothing.
—Bring along flares, a flashlight with new batteries, a small shovel, a windshield scraper, blankets, water and snacks.
—Check in advance for road conditions by calling (800) 427-7623.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urges “Buckle Up America—Every Trip. Every Time.” Nationwide, more than half the drivers and passengers killed in crashes are not wearing seatbelts. The NHTSA estimates that, nationally, in 2013 seat belts saved the lives of 12,854 passenger vehicle occupants who were involved in a traffic accident.
