Police will be out in force across the Southland beginning Friday night in search of impaired drivers as the Fourth of July holiday weekend begins.

The “maximum enforcement period” begins at 6:01 p.m. and ends at 11:59 p.m. Monday, according to the California Highway Patrol. Local law enforcement agencies also plan stepped-up patrols over the holiday.

“All available officers will be watching for motorists who are speeding, distracted or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.

“Saving lives is always the first concern for our officers,” he said. ‘Motorists will help make everyone’s holiday safer by driving sober, fastening their seat belts, and obeying the speed limits.”

During the last year’s holiday weekend, 26 people were killed on the state’s roadways.

“Our officers would rather provide education and other aid to motorists than write tickets,” Farrow said. “However, they will be looking for anyone who is driving impaired and posing a danger on the roadways.”

People are urged to report drunken drivers by calling 911.

—City News Service

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