CHP Arrests 969 Drivers For Suspected DUI In California

CALIFORNIA -- Nearly 1,000 people were arrested on suspicion of drunken driving this holiday weekend in California. The California Highway Patrol released statistics Monday as they ramp up their efforts to prevent drivers from hitting the road while under the influence this Labor Day weekend.

As of 11:59 p.m. Sunday, 17 people were killed in traffic accidents. Of the deaths, one was a motorcyclist and two were pedestrians, the CHP said.

Officers arrested 969 people for allegedly driving under the influence. CHP officers began ramping up patrols on state highways Friday and plan to through Monday to catch impaired drivers and other traffic violators as part of the agency's annual Labor Day weekend crackdown.

The CHP's "maximum enforcement period" is slated to end at 11:59 p.m. Monday.

"Impaired driving remains one of the most serious traffic-related problems on our roadways today," CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said in a statement. "Let's end the summer safely and remember to designate a sober driver, wear your seat belt, and obey all traffic laws."

During last year's maximum enforcement period for Labor Day weekend, 30 people died on California roadways, according to the CHP. The CHP arrested more than 1,000 motorists on suspicion of DUI statewide throughout the holiday weekend. (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

The CHP's maximum enforcement period coincides with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, which runs Aug. 17 through Sept. 3.

--Patch photo by Renee Schiavone/Kristina Houck contributed to this report