The annual Christmas Day Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) is about to begin, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is getting ready for it.  

The purpose of this enforcement campaign is to improve public safety on California’s highways during peak travel times.

The MEP runs from Friday, Dec. 22, at 6:01 p.m., to Monday, Dec. 25 at 11:59 p.m.   

Although the MEP is mostly focused on enforcing speed limits, CHP officers will also keep an eye out for drivers who are intoxicated.  

“As we celebrate the joy of the season, let’s make a collective commitment to prioritize safety on our roads,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Your loved ones are waiting for you at home—buckle up, drive responsibly, and have a plan that includes a safe, sober ride before you head out for the evening.”

All of the available officers are set to be used to patrol the roads at this time, stepping up enforcement and helping drivers.

The yearly influx of holiday travelers increases the likelihood of collisions and incidents involving alcohol on the roads.  

Tragic outcomes can arise from making poor decisions while operating a vehicle, such as speeding, driving while intoxicated or texting while driving.  

Twenty-six people were killed in crashes in the CHP’s jurisdiction during the previous year’s Christmas MEP and almost half of those killed were not wearing seat belts. 

 CHP officers made 639 arrests for DUI during the previous year’s Christmas MEP, which is the equivalent of one arrest for DUI almost every seven minutes during the holiday weekend.  

To guarantee that everyone gets to their destination safely, celebrate responsibly.  Choose a sober driver at all times, or take the bus, taxi or ridesharing service.

“The CHP encourages the public to call 9-1-1 to report impaired drivers, excessive speeding, and unsafe behavior on the roadways,” states the CHP. “The life you save could be your own.”

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