While Californians observe the stay-at-home order during the coronavirus pandemic, the state’s roadways and those who use them are seeing the impact. With traffic volume down, the number of incidents on California’s roadways—including collisions and arrests for driving under the influence—continue to decline. Ernest Figueroa says the lower number of drivers on the road means fewer crashes and DUIs…
According to the CHP, there was a 75 percent decrease in the number of crashes in California this year from March 19 to April 30, compared to the same period in 2019. Additionally, there was an 88 percent reduction in the number of people killed.
Fewer motorists also means DUI arrests by CHP officers decreased nearly 42 percent during the same period.
However, not all of the state’s drivers have been on their best behavior during the pandemic. The open roads have led to a few brazen motorists testing the speed limit and eventually meeting up with a CHP officer for a citation. CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley reminds motorists, “Drivers are easier to spot when they are on a nearly empty roadway.”
