The California Highway Patrol (CHP) became incredibly busy over the Labor Day weekend this year — for very tragic reasons. There was a stunning number of fatalities over the weekend, with 43 people losing their lives on California’s freeways and state roads. This was a huge uptick from last year’s Labor Day weekend — almost triple the 2023 fatality number of 15. From Friday to Monday evening this year, many motorists took to the roads to begin their celebrations. Unfortunately, a lot of drivers were not driving safely. The CHP reported that they handed out over 28,000 traffic tickets over the weekend, and the number of intoxicated drivers increased since last year.
Data Is Still Being Tabulated
Although the CHP is still collecting information on all of these Labor Day weekend auto accidents, they also noted they issued a stunning 16,000 citations for speed. Over 1,700 people were cited for distracted driving; often, this ticket means that the driver was texting while driving. Upwards of 850 people were flagged for seatbelt violations, and excessive speed was also an issue. In fact, a whopping 500 drivers were cited for speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour.
A Multi-Car Accident in Cerritos Leaves Two Dead
The Southland was not immune from the traffic accidents in California over the weekend, with a horrific crash on the 91 Freeway causing havoc and tragedy on Sunday morning. Eastbound lanes were shut down, and motorists were encouraged to avoid the 91 entirely and take a detour on the 605 freeway. According to the CHP, there were another three fatalities in the Los Angeles area as well.
The CHP Commissioner Made a Personal Appeal to California Drivers
With 4,488 traffic fatalities on California roads in 2022, the state continues to battle reckless and dangerous driving. Considering the extraordinarily dangerous weekend on California roads, it is important to note that the CHP attempted to warn drivers of danger before the holiday weekend. CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee was especially somber in tone, warning California drivers their actions behind the wheel had consequences for other drivers. Unfortunately, it seems that not as many drivers heeded his message. Although the CHP is still investigating all of these fatal accidents, it seems likely that they will soon start focusing on preventive measures for Labor Day weekend next year. Hopefully, Californians will receive the message and take action to make 2025 a safer Labor Day weekend behind the wheel.
