CENTRAL COAST—Thanksgiving weekend, traditionally one of the busiest travel times in the country, can also be the deadliest, according to a press release sent out today by the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
This year, all area CHP offices within the Coastal Division have teamed up, with available officers on patrol for a Maximum Enforcement Corridor Operation (MECO) along Highway 101 beginning today.
The Coastal Division of the CHP stretches along Highway 101 from Santa Cruz to Moorpark, well over 300 miles of highly-traveled roadway. It is comprised of 11 offices.
During the MECO, officers will be looking out for unsafe driving, including seat belt violations, speeding, distracted driving and signs of impairment.
On the day before Thanksgiving last year, Coastal Division responded to 40 traffic collisions, including seven with injuries and one fatality along Highway 101. With the number of travelers increasing each year, Coastal Division will be working to ensure the number of collisions does not.
“The California Highway Patrol wishes everyone a safe, fun, and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday,” said Coastal Division Chief LD Maples. “If you plan to travel this year, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, and always be a courteous driver.”
