Press release from the California Highway Patrol:






The
California Highway Patrol (CHP) will launch a 12-hour Maximum
Enforcement Period (MEP) from 6 p.m. Friday, October 31, through 6
a.m. Saturday, November 1, to protect motorists and prevent
impaired driving. During the operation, all available CHP officers
will be on patrol statewide, focusing on identifying and arresting
impaired drivers before they cause harm.


Driving
under the influence of alcohol, drugs or a combination of both can
have deadly consequences. On average, more than 800 fatal crashes
involving impaired drivers claim over 900 lives each year in
California, reinforcing the CHP’s commitment to removing
impaired drivers from the road.


Impairment
is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications,
over-the-counter drugs and cannabis products can all affect a
driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.


Penalties
for Impaired Driving


Drivers
arrested for driving under the influence face serious penalties,
including:



Driver’s
license suspension

Fines

Mandatory
DUI education programs

Jail
time


During
last year’s 12-hour Halloween MEP, officers investigated nearly
500 crashes statewide. About 90 of those involved impaired
drivers, resulting in two deaths and more than 60 injuries. CHP
officers also made nearly 120 DUI arrests during that period.


For
more information about DUI penalties, visit the California
Department of Motor Vehicles website.


Make
the Right Choice


To
help ensure everyone reaches their destination safely, the CHP
urges motorists to:



Designate
a sober driver.

Use
ride-sharing services, taxis or public transit.

Never
drive impaired or ride with someone who is.


If
you see someone who appears to be driving impaired, call 9-1-1
immediately.


“Whether
it’s Halloween or any night of the year, the decision to drive
sober can save a life,” Commissioner Duryee added. “Together,
we can make our roads safer and prevent tragedies before they
happen.”


The
CHP reminds all drivers to make responsible choices behind the
wheel — never drive under the influence, always wear your seat
belt and follow the speed limit.

The
mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety,
Service, and
Security.