Local & Community
CHP Announces Memorial Day Enforcement Campaign

RIVERSIDE (CNS) - The California Highway Patrol will launch a
statewide Memorial Day weekend enforcement campaign focused on seat belt use,
reckless driving and impaired driving as heavy holiday travel begins across
California.
The CHP's Holiday Enforcement Period will run from 6 p.m. Friday
through 11:59 p.m. Monday, with officers conducting targeted patrols on
highways and local roads statewide.
``Wearing a seat belt remains one of the simplest and most effective
ways to save lives,'' CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee said in a statement.
``Crashes are unpredictable, and taking a moment to buckle up before every trip
can mean the difference between life and death.''
According to the CHP, preliminary 2024 and 2025 data show more than
13,000 crashes statewide involved an unrestrained occupant, resulting in more
than 1,300 fatalities.
During last year's Memorial Day enforcement period, CHP officers
investigated 22 fatal crashes within the agency's jurisdiction. Of the 21
vehicle occupants killed, nine were not wearing seat belts, according to the
agency.
The CHP said officers also made more than 1,100 DUI arrests during
last year's Memorial Day enforcement effort.
Officials also reminded drivers about California's child passenger
safety laws and urged parents to ensure children are secured in the proper car
seat or booster seat.
Copyright 2026, City News Service, Inc.
By: NBC Palm Springs
May 21, 2026


