SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Valley Division and Golden Gate Divisions are partnering with the Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP) on a campaign to reduce speeding over the Fourth of July.
The "I-80 Challenge" will begin at 6 a.m. on July 3 and continue until 11:59 p.m. on July 7. During this time officers will increase traffic safety operations by educating and taking appropriate enforcement action on drivers who violate traffic laws along Interstate 80 between San Francisco and the Nevada/Utah state line.
CHP Valley Division Chief Brent Newman said speed limits are put in place to protect all road users.
“We want to accomplish our goal of saving lives by educating motorists about the dangers of speeding and encouraging everyone to follow the rules of the road and drive safely,” Newman said.
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The CHP and NHP are asking drivers to accept the “I-80 Challenge” by promoting awareness and safe driving along the route.
“Speeding is one of the most common factors contributing to traffic crashes," said John O’Rourke, Nevada Highway Patrol colonel. "Driving too fast can turn a near miss into a crash or fatality.”
In 2017, 1,379 people were killed in speed-related crashes in California and Nevada, according to a press release about the challenge.
The “I-80 Challenge” coincides with the CHP’s annual Independence Day Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP).