Annual Labor Day crackdown on DUI enforced this weekend

The California Highway Patrol’s “maximum enforcement period” will conclude at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 2. FILE PHOTO

LOS ANGELES – California Highway Patrol officers will be ramping up operations on highways and roads throughout the state this weekend to catch drunken and drug-impaired drivers, as part of the agency’s annual Labor Day weekend enforcement campaign.

The “maximum enforcement period” will conclude at 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 2. All available officers will deploy for targeted crackdowns.

“Everyone’s safety is our top priority, so make responsible choices,” CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee said. “Drive sober, stay focused and help keep our roads safe for all who use them. Your decisions behind the wheel can save lives — yours and others.”

During the 2023 Labor Day weekend MEP, CHP officers statewide arrested 1,064 motorists on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, compared to just over 900 taken into custody during the same period in 2022.
Thirty-eight people died in wrecks throughout California over Labor Day weekend last year, the agency said.

Officials noted that, with most CHP officers and sergeants certified as “drug recognition experts,” or DREs, they will be better equipped to spot motorists under the influence of marijuana and other drugs.

“Remember to keep yourself and others safe by designating a sober driver or using public transit. If you see a driver who seems impaired, call 9-1-1 right away,” CHP said in a statement. “Be prepared to give the dispatcher details about the vehicle, including license plate number, location and direction of travel. Your call could save a life.”

Best and worst times to travel by car

Meanwhile, INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says car travelers should avoid the afternoon and early evening hours this weekend, as those times will be the most congested.

Travelers returning on Sunday and on Labor Day should leave as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic in the afternoon.

“Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. (With CNS report)

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