December 18, 2014 - SACRAMENTO, Calif. – With holiday celebrations upon us, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is preparing for this heavily-traveled time of year by educating the motoring public about safety on our roadways. As part of its upcoming Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) the CHP is reminding travelers to buckle up, adhere to the posted speed limit, avoid distractions behind the wheel, and always designate a sober driver.

The CHP’s Christmas MEP enforcement effort begins Wednesday, December 24, 2014, at 6 p.m. and continues through Sunday, December 28, 2014, at 11:59 p.m. During this period, all available officers will be out on the roadways for enhanced enforcement efforts and assisting motorists wherever needed.

“Our intent with the enhanced enforcement efforts during the holiday season is simply to save lives,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “We want everyone to have a happy holiday season this year and ensure nobody is forced to deal with the loss of a loved one.”

An anti-DUI effort is aimed at eliminating drunk-driving by educating Californians about the dangers of driving after consuming alcoholic beverages. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 10,000 people are killed annually in America by drunk drivers. In December 2012 alone, 830 people died as a result of a collision caused by an impaired driver. This year, the CHP hopes to eliminate the added danger of intoxicated drivers on our roadways.

During the 30 hours of last year’s Christmas holiday MEP, five people were killed in traffic collisions. Among those killed were two pedestrians, one motorcyclist, and two vehicle occupants who were not wearing seat belts. The CHP made 221 arrests for driving under the influence during the same 30-hour timeframe.

“Have a safe, fun, and enjoyable holiday celebration this year,” added Commissioner Farrow. “Just do it responsibly by making the right and responsible decision before you get behind the wheel and always designate a sober driver.”