As Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, the California Highway Patrol is reminding drivers and passengers to prioritize safety by buckling up before every trip.
The CHP will launch its annual statewide Memorial Day Holiday Enforcement Period beginning Friday, May 23, at 6:01 p.m. and continuing through Monday, May 26, at 11:59 p.m. During this time, CHP officers will be on alert for impaired or reckless drivers and anyone failing to wear a seatbelt, as part of their mission to keep California’s roadways safe.
“Our top priority is keeping the public safe, not just during the holidays but daily,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Buckling up is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your passengers in a crash. Our officers will be out in force to help everyone arrive at their destination safely.”
In addition to traditional black-and-white patrol vehicles, drivers may notice the CHP’s latest fleet of low-profile Specially Marked Patrol Vehicles. These fully marked units are designed to blend in with traffic, making it easier for officers to spot dangerous driving behaviors without being immediately recognized.
Last year, 42 people lost their lives in crashes across California during Memorial Day weekend. Nearly half of those killed in CHP jurisdiction were not wearing seatbelts. In addition, CHP officers arrested more than 1,100 individuals for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
California law requires that all drivers and passengers age eight and older wear seatbelts. Children under eight must be properly secured in a child safety or booster seat located in the vehicle’s back seat. Children under age two must ride in a rear-facing car seat unless they weigh more than 40 pounds or are taller than 40 inches.
This year’s enforcement campaign aligns with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s national “Click It or Ticket” mobilization, which runs from May 19 through June 1. During this time, CHP officers will focus enforcement on seatbelt and child safety seat violations.
As always, the CHP urges all motorists to make smart choices: Buckle up. Drive sober. Stay alert. If you plan to drink or use drugs, arrange a safe ride home before heading out. Your safety—and the safety of others—depends on it.
