Rio Linda, CA – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is launching a massive 12-hour Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) this Halloween, deploying every available officer statewide to aggressively target and arrest impaired drivers.
The operation begins at 6 p.m. this Friday, October 31st, and runs through 6 a.m. Saturday, November 1st, aiming to keep California’s roads safe during one of the year’s biggest nights for celebrations.
The focus is laser-sharp: removing drivers who are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both before they can cause a tragedy.
Deadly Consequences Spur Action
CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee stressed the zero-tolerance stance. “Impaired driving destroys lives, and even one life lost is one too many,” said Commissioner Duryee. He urged the public to plan ahead: “Arrange a sober ride and help us keep California’s roads safe for everyone who uses them.”
The push is backed by grim statistics. On average, more than 800 fatal crashes involving impaired drivers claim over 900 lives each year in California. Impairment isn’t limited to alcohol; it includes prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and cannabis products—anything that affects a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Last Year’s Warning
The danger is real, as evidenced by last year’s short Halloween MEP. During that 12-hour period:
- CHP officers investigated nearly 500 crashes statewide.
- 90 of those crashes involved an impaired driver.
- These incidents resulted in two deaths and more than 60 injuries.
- CHP officers made nearly 120 DUI arrests.
Penalties for a DUI
Drivers caught driving under the influence face serious, immediate penalties, including:
- Driver’s license suspension
- Hefty fines
- Mandatory DUI education programs
- Potential jail time
Make the Safe Choice
The CHP is imploring everyone celebrating Halloween to make responsible choices:
- Designate a sober driver.
- Use ride-sharing services, taxis, or public transit.
- Never drive impaired or ride with someone who is.
If you spot 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.
For more information about DUI penalties, motorists are advised to visit the California Department of Motor Vehicles website.
