SACRAMENTO COUNTY, Calif. — As the holiday season brings festivities and family gatherings, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is out in full force, working to ensure safer roads during the Maximum Enforcement Period.
The extra patrols are part of the CHP's efforts to deter dangerous driving behaviors, including impaired driving, and to keep the roads safer for all travelers.
The Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period began Tuesday evening and ends Wednesday around midnight. Despite the season’s spirit of joy, the dangers of impaired driving remain ever-present.
One Christmas morning crash in North Highlands serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of driving under the influence.
A family in North Highlands was shocked to find their front yard torn apart when a suspected drunk driver slammed into four parked cars, causing significant damage to their garage on Keema Avenue. Fortunately, no one was inside the garage at the time of the crash, and no injuries were reported. The family, however, was left to grapple with the aftermath of the frightening collision.
"If the Subaru wouldn’t have been there, he would have gone straight into the house where the kids were,” a family member said, expressing the close call.
The incident highlights the unpredictable dangers posed by impaired drivers.
Capt. Eric Jones, commander of CHP’s South Sacramento division, emphasized officers are focusing on key violations such as speeding, impaired driving and seat belt use during the enforcement period. These actions are crucial in preventing deadly crashes.
Sadly, this Christmas morning crash is not an isolated incident. Last year, during the 78-hour Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period, CHP reported 20 fatalities within its jurisdiction and over 900 arrests for driving under the influence (DUI).
“We are really focused on speeding, impaired driving, seat belts and other violations that can cause crashes,” said Capt. Jones, urging the public to take proactive steps to prevent accidents.
As the holidays continue, the CHP encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly.
"If you are going to go out and celebrate the holidays, please celebrate responsibly. Plan ahead, have a sober driver in mind, use rideshare, a taxi or call a family member or friend who can pick you up and get you home safely," Jones said.
The CHP also stressed the importance of planning ahead to avoid potential delays in holiday travel.
“Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. Sometimes holiday travel can be difficult, so planning ahead can make a big difference,” said Capt. Jones.
In addition, CHP urges drivers to stay vigilant. If you see any dangerous driving behavior, you are encouraged to call 911 with the location, license plate number and a description of the vehicle. However, it is important to avoid intervening and instead be a good witness.
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