CHP Urges Caution to Drivers, Petaluma PD Getting Ready for Busiest Night of the Year

Patient.

That’s what the California Highway Patrol is advising drivers to be as they begin their travel this Thanksgiving holidays. 

More than 5.3 million Californians are expected to drive at least 50 miles during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, according to AAA, meaning both local and regional roadways will be crowded.

The CHP is urging all drivers to exercise extra caution, since accidents typically increase during Thanksgiving weekend, both from alcohol consumption and people just not being attentive.

“Be patient while traveling on the roadways this holiday season,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow in a statement. “People are eager to see friends and loved ones, but it’s important to get to your destination safely.”

To monitor holiday traffic, CHP is launching a “maximum enforcement period” starting Wednesday at 6 p.m. through Sunday evening. During last year’s Thanksgiving weekend, 21 people were killed in collisions throughout the state. 

And if you’re drinking, designate a non-drinking driver before the partying begins.  Last year 1,546 people were arrested for driving under the influence. 

Petaluma Police are also staffing up in anticipation of one of their busiest days of the year: the night before Thanksgiving. Last year, 12 people were arrested in Petaluma that night, mostly at downtown bars, a trend police attribute to young people returning home for the holiday and going out with their friends.