The California Highway Patrol reported on May 25 that the first night of the Memorial Day weekend period saw one traffic fatality in territory it patrols in Los Angeles County and 93 arrests of motorists suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The totals cover the period from 6:01 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday, according to the CHP.
Statewide, there were three traffic fatalities and 362 DUI arrests during that time frame, authorities said.
During the comparable period in 2013, two people were killed statewide and none in Los Angeles County, while 362 DUI arrests were recorded statewide and 75 in Los Angeles County.
Meanwhile, the countywide “Avoid the 100” anti-DUI task force announced hat 323 motorists were arrested on suspicion of DUI from 12:01 a.m. Friday through midnight Saturday.
The 100 law enforcement agencies participating in the crackdown have been setting up checkpoints and conducting anti-DUI saturation patrols and will collect arrest data through midnight Monday, according to the task force. The CHP is a participant in the task force.
Motorists should not get behind the wheel after drinking nor enter a vehicle driven by someone who has been drinking, authorities warned.
As always, those planning on drinking alcoholic beverages were advised to designate a sober driver or make alternative transportation arrangements prior to setting out.