The California Highway Patrol is set to launch their Maximum Enforcement Period “to help keep motorists off the naughty list” this holiday season, officials said Friday. 

This year’s Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period is set to begin at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 24, and concludes at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 25, according to officials. 

To help keep motorists safe during this busy travel season, the CHP is giving the gift of traffic safety tips. 

During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, leave the dashing to the reindeer and take your time to ensure you arrive safely at your destination, according to CHP officials.    

Another way to stay safe on the road during a time that may include increased celebrations is to designate a non-drinking driver.  

“Our goal at the CHP is for everyone to get home safe.  When a person chooses to drink and drive, it not only puts their safety at risk, but it endangers the life of everyone on the road with them,” said CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley.  “We encourage the public to help us save lives and remove these dangerous drivers from the roadway by reporting them to 9-1-1.”

In 2018 more than 1,000 drivers did not drive responsibly prior to the Christmas Day Maximum Enforcement Period resulting in 1,166 arrests by CHP officers for driving under the influence. 

When the Maximum Enforcement Period is active, all available officers will be on the road for enhanced enforcement and to assist any drivers who need help, according to officials.   

Whether your holiday travel includes destinations near or far, it is set to likely mean increased traffic on the roadways, according to the CHP.  

“It is important to practice safe driving habits, including getting plenty of rest, avoiding distractions and always buckling up,” reads an official statement from the CHP.

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