News & Columns > Michael P. Neufeld > Fewer Thanksgiving Traffic Deaths Reported Statewide

Fewer Thanksgiving Traffic Deaths Reported Statewide

No Local Fatalities During Holiday Weekend

By Michael P. Neufeld
Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Running Springs, CA – The Running Springs office of the California Highway Patrol has reported that there were no fatal traffic accidents, during the Thanksgiving weekend, in the mountain communities.

Local officers made four arrests of people, suspected of driving under the influence, during the Maximum Enforcement Period, which was from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 26, to 6 p.m. Sunday, November 30.

(Photo by CHP.)

Statewide, the California Highway Patrol reported that 33 people died during the four-day holiday weekend this year compared, to 41 people during the same period last year.

"While I am thankful that fewer people died during the four-day holiday weekend, I am troubled that we continue to needlessly lose lives on the state's roadways," said Commissioner Joe Farrow. "These statistics aren't just numbers; they represent real people with families and friends who mourn their loss."

During the four-day Maximum Enforcement Period, all available CHP officers were on the road.

Report Drunk Drivers By Calling 911 (Photo by Michael P. Neufeld.)

DUI arrests by CHP officers totaled 1,530 this Thanksgiving holiday, compared to 1,628 last year. Of the 20 vehicle occupants killed on the state's highways and unincorporated areas that fall under CHP jurisdiction, seven were not wearing seatbelts.

"Those seven people might still be alive today if they had simply taken the extra few seconds to buckle up," Commissioner Farrow said.

With the Christmas, and New Year's, fast approaching, the CHP warns that similar Maximum Enforcement Periods will be in effect during those holiday weekends as well.

"If people will heed our message — don't drink and drive, obey the speed limit, and always wear seat belts — upcoming holiday memories can be happy for everyone," Commissioner Farrow said.