Before You Give Thanks
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration estimates that nationally,
seat belts saved the lives of 12,854 passenger
vehicle occupants in 2013.
Sacramento, California ___ Thanksgiving weekend, traditionally one of the
busiest travel times in America, can also be one of the deadliest. The
California Highway Patrol (CHP) will have all available officers on patrol
during a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) to help avoid tragedies for
California motorists.
In 2014, over the Thanksgiving weekend, 45
people died in collisions on California roadways – a 36 percent increase from
the same period in 2013. In addition, the CHP arrested almost 1,000 people for
driving under the influence.
“Having a safe Thanksgiving drive this year—and
being here to enjoy next Thanksgiving—can be as simple as buckling up,” CHP
Commissioner Joe Farrow said. “Nearly half the people who died in the CHP’s
jurisdiction over Thanksgiving last year were not wearing a seat belt at the
time of the collision.”
The MEP began Wednesday, November 25, at 6 p.m.
and continue through Sunday, November 29, at 11:59 p.m. During the MEP, CHP
officers will not only be enforcing the law, but also assisting motorists.
“Buckling up, avoiding distracted driving,
traveling at a safe speed, designating a sober driver – all are especially
important during the holidays,” Commissioner Farrow said. “During the MEP, our
officers will emphasize education and enforcement throughout the state to
ensure everyone can enjoy their holiday.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) urges “Buckle Up America – Every Trip. Every Time.”
Nationwide, more than half the drivers and passengers killed in crashes are not
wearing seat belts.