LOS ANGELES, CA – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has announced plans for its annual Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) in an effort to reduce impaired driving and improve roadway safety during the holiday season.
The enforcement campaign is set to begin at 6:01 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, and will run until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, December 25, the agency confirmed in a statement Friday.
The MEP will see an increased presence of officers across the state, focusing on violations such as impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, and seat belt violations. CHP officials emphasized that the effort is intended to deter dangerous driving behaviors and prevent collisions during a time of heightened travel.
Last year’s 78-hour Christmas enforcement period resulted in more than 900 arrests for driving under the influence, according to CHP. Additionally, 20 fatalities were reported in crashes within the agency’s jurisdiction during the same time frame.
“This time of year is about celebrating with family and friends, but it’s also a time when traffic incidents increase due to poor driving decisions,” CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee said. “Each of us has a role in making California’s roads safer. Let’s work together to keep this holiday season free of tragedy.”
The Christmas enforcement period marks the first of two operations planned by the CHP in December. A similar effort will take place over the New Year’s holiday, targeting unsafe driving behaviors during one of the busiest travel times of the year.
CHP officials urged drivers to plan ahead by designating sober drivers, using rideshare services, or making alternative arrangements to avoid impaired driving. The agency also reminded the public to report unsafe drivers by calling 911 and providing detailed information, including vehicle descriptions and license plate numbers.
With the holiday season often bringing an uptick in road travel, CHP’s enforcement aims to address the risks associated with increased traffic and festivities. Officials said they hope this year’s operation will help reduce fatalities and serious injuries on California’s roads.
The investigation and monitoring efforts will continue through the holidays, and data on arrests and accidents will be released following the enforcement periods.
