Crime & Safety

Thanksgiving Crackdown Planned On Two Major Interstates

The California Highway Patrol is joining several other state highway patrol agencies from across the nation during the operation.

For motorists planning to travel this Thanksgiving holiday, expect an increased police presence on two major interstates.

The California Highway Patrol is joining several other state highway patrol agencies from across the nation to participate in two separate traffic safety challenges during the five-day period. 

The first of two campaigns beginning Wednesday, November 27, is the “Interstate 5 Challenge.”  The five-day lifesaving traffic safety effort is a joint endeavor between the CHP, Oregon State Police, and the Washington State Patrol with the focus being on seat belt usage, driving under the influence, speed, and aggressive driving.

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Interstate 5 is the main interstate highway on the West Coast. Beginning in San Diego County, it links several major California cities and stretches through 17 of the state’s counties. More than 1,300 miles in length, I-5 continues into Oregon and Washington and connects all three states’ capital cities.  

According to data from the CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, I-5 averages more than 14,000 collisions annually. Preliminary SWITRS data from 2012 indicates at least 92 people were killed in collisions on I-5 in California. 

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The second campaign to take effect this weekend is the “I-40 Challenge.” It’s a two-day campaign involving law enforcement agencies serving Interstate 40 from California to North Carolina. 

In California, the I-40 stretches 155 miles from Needles to Barstow and averages more than 200 collisions annually. Preliminary SWITRS data from 2012 indicates at least 10 people were killed in collisions on I-40 in California.

“Partnering with our colleagues throughout the nation in previous challenge campaigns was successful in increasing awareness of our focus on traffic safety,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow in a released statement. “We are determined to achieve our goals on I-5 and I-40 by continuing to educate motorists about the primary causes of traffic collisions and encouraging safe driving behaviors.”

Both campaigns conclude on Sunday, Dec. 1, and coincide with the CHP’s Thanksgiving Maximum Enforcement Period.

“A majority of collisions and roadway deaths are preventable if motorists follow basic traffic safety rules,” Farrow added.  “Enjoy the holidays but remember:  always wear a seat belt, drive at a speed safe for roadway conditions, eliminate distractions while driving, and always designate a sober driver.”

 

 



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