The California Highway Patrol is ramping up enforcement this Labor Day weekend, deploying every available officer in an effort to stop impaired drivers before tragedy strikes.

The CHP’s annual Labor Day Maximum Enforcement Period begins Friday, Aug. 29, at 6:01 p.m. and continues through Monday, Sept. 1, at 11:59 p.m.

 The effort aligns with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.

“Every available CHP officer will be on the road this Labor Day weekend with one mission: to stop impaired drivers before they harm themselves or others. If you choose to drive under the influence, expect to be stopped, arrested and held accountable. No excuses, no warnings. Lives are on the line,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.

Labor Day remains one of the deadliest weekends on California roads. 

Over the past five years, CHP officers have averaged 1,000 DUI arrests during the holiday, with 28 fatal crashes and more than 30 deaths each year.

Last year alone, 61 people lost their lives statewide over the holiday weekend, including 21 deaths tied to impaired driving. Officers also arrested 1,140 suspected impaired drivers.

Authorities urge the public to report dangerous drivers by calling 9-1-1.

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