As tens of thousands of Californians prepare to mark Independence
Day, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reminds everyone to keep safety a top priority. This
year the holiday falls on a Sunday, so for many people it will be a three-day weekend full of
celebration and good times.

Fourth of July weekend is a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) for the CHP. All available
officers will be out on the road during the weekend looking for motorists who are a danger to
themselves or others on our state’s highways. The MEP begins at 6:01 p.m. on Friday, July 2,
and continues through midnight on Monday, July 5.

Last year 24 persons were killed statewide during the Fourth of July weekend, and 80 percent of
the vehicle occupants killed in CHP jurisdiction were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the
crash. In addition, CHP officers made 1,239 arrests for driving under the influence during that
same time period.

“The CHP wants your holiday memories to be happy ones.” said CHP Commissioner Joe
Farrow. “Please be sure to take a few simple precautions to ensure that your friends and family
have a safe Fourth of July.”
· Don’t drink and drive. If your Independence Day celebration includes drinking alcohol,
arrange for a friend or family member who will not be drinking to be the “Designated
Driver.”
· Always wear your seat belt. Make sure all passengers, adults and children, are also
buckled up, even on short trips.
· Watch your speed. Stay at or below the limit, depending upon road conditions.
· Plan ahead if you will drive long distances. Add extra time to your trip so you won’t feel
rushed and take a break every hour or so to get refreshed.