CHP Issues Memorial Day Travel Warning to Drivers

By: Sierra News Posted On: May 22, 2025 View: 4

CALIFORNIA — As Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer travel season, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is ramping up its enforcement efforts to keep roadways safe. From Friday, May 23rd, at 6:00 p.m. through Monday, May 26th at 11:59 p.m., officers across the state will be out in force for the annual Memorial Day Holiday Enforcement Period (HEP).

Targeting DUI, Seat Belts, & Speed

CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee emphasized the importance of simple safety measures during one of the busiest weekends of the year.

CHP Commissioner, Sean Duryee.

“Buckling up is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your passengers in a crash,” said Duryee.

Continuing, Duyee says, “Our officers will be out in force to help everyone arrive at their destination safely.”

CHP patrols will be looking for drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs, those exhibiting reckless behavior, and anyone not wearing a seatbelt. Last year’s Memorial Day weekend resulted in 42 fatalities across California. Shockingly, nearly half of the victims in CHP jurisdictions were not wearing seatbelts. Offers also made over 1,100 DUI arrests during the 2023 holiday weekend.

New Patrol Vehicles

New stealth Durango, apart of the SMPVs.

Motorists should be aware that CHP’s efforts won’t only come from traditional black-and-white units. Drivers may also encounter low-profile, fully marked Specially Marked Patrol Vehicles, designed to discreetly monitor for unsafe driving behavior.

For more information about the new stealth vehicles, visit here.

This year’s HEP also aligns with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration‘s (NHTSA) “Click It or Ticket” mobilization. During this national campaign, law enforcement agencies — including CHP — will increase attention on seat belt and child safety seat violations.

Buckle Up & Drive Sober

California law requires that all drivers and passengers aged eight and older wear a seatbelt. Children under eight must be secured in an appropriate car seat or booster seat in the back seat. Infants under two years old must ride in a rear-facing car seat unless they exceed 40 pounds or 40 inches in height.

CHP reminds all drivers to plan ahead, drive sober, and stay alert. If you intend to consume alcohol or use any impairing substances, arrange a safe way home before going out.

With increased patrols and a shared focus on prevention, the CHP urges all California residents to do their part to ensure a safe and tragedy-free Memorial Day weekend.