The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has initiated a 78-hour enforcement period to combat driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs over the Labor Day weekend. The crackdown began on September 4 at 6:01 p.m. and is scheduled to conclude at 11:59 p.m. on September 7.
This initiative aligns with the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, which runs from August 19 to September 7. CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee emphasized the importance of responsible choices, stating, "There is no excuse for driving impaired. If you choose to drink or use a substance that affects your ability to drive, make a plan and stay out of the driver’s seat." He added that such decisions can prevent tragedies.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is also increasing its presence, with additional officers on patrol from August 17 through Labor Day to identify and stop drivers suspected of impaired driving. Commander Pasos of the LAPD's Traffic Group urged travelers to plan ahead, stating, "Whether traveling locally or taking a longer road trip to see friends and family, please have a game plan for how to get home safely. There is never a good excuse for driving after drinking or using drugs that impair."
During last year's 78-hour Labor Day enforcement period, CHP officers made over 1,200 DUI arrests. The holiday period also saw nearly 500 impaired-driving crashes, resulting in more than 270 injuries and eight fatalities across California. According to LAPD data from 2020, drunk driving was a factor in 30 percent of all traffic fatalities in California, claiming 1,159 lives.
The LAPD has announced specific DUI checkpoint locations and saturation patrols throughout the weekend, including events on September 1, 2, 3, and 4 in various areas of Los Angeles.