SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Memorial Day weekend kicks off one of the busiest summer travel seasons on record, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving are sounding the alarm.
"I told my kids they couldn't go anywhere this weekend and they're grown!” said Rhonda Campbell with MADD Sacramento. "Memorial day is the traditional kick off of summer time in California, but it's also the beginning of the 100 deadliest days from Memorial Day to Labor Day."
According to MADD, 37 people a day are killed in drunk driving crashes across the nation. Every driver on the road can have a part in safety this weekend.
"It's easier than it's ever been to get a safe ride home. That would include Uber, Lyft, designate a driver, spend the night wherever you're going to BBQ and have a good time. Or just don't consume alcohol."
California Highway Patrol is also launching their maximum enforcement period until Monday, watching out for drunk or distracted drivers.
“Number one thing we want people to do right out of the gate? Put their seatbelt on. Slow down. Get to your destination. We want you to get there safely. And most importantly do not drink and drive, smoke and drive, consume any drugs and drive. We don't want any impaired drivers out on the roadway,” said CHP officer Ruben Jones.
The concern isn’t just reserved for the roads, though. MADD stresses people follow these suggestions while out on the water, too.
"BUI equals DUI. Boating under the influence is driving under the influence. It will be treated the same, and you can kill somebody,” said Campbell.
The maximum enforcement period lasts through midnight Monday.
