The California Highway Patrol is joining several other state highway patrol agencies across the nation to participate in two separate traffic safety challenges during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Keeping in line with the CHP’s mission of saving lives, both campaigns have set a goal of zero fatalities during the five-day period.

The first of two campaigns beginning Wednesday is the Interstate 5 Challenge, a joint endeavor between the CHP, Oregon State Police and the Washington State Patrol. The focus throughout the “Arrive Alive on I-5” campaign will be on seat belt usage, driving under the influence, speed and aggressive driving.

Interstate 5 is more than 1,300 miles long, running from San Diego through California, Oregon and Washington. It connects all three states’ capital cities.

CHP data shows that the freeway sees an average of more than 14,000 collisions annually. Last year, 92 people died on I-5 in California alone.

The second campaign, the I-40 Challenge, is a two-day effort involving law enforcement agencies serving Interstate 40 from California to North Carolina. In California, 155 miles of I-40 runs from Needles to Barstow. This stretch of highway averages more than 200 collisions annually; at least 10 people died in crashes there in 2012.

“Partnering with our colleagues throughout the nation in previous challenge campaigns was successful in increasing awareness of our focus on traffic safety,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “We are determined to achieve our goals on I-5 and I-40 by continuing to educate motorists about the primary causes of traffic collisions and encouraging safe driving behaviors.”

Each of the law enforcement agencies involved in the challenges is working to ensure motorists experience the safest possible Thanksgiving travel period. Both education and enforcement campaigns conclude Sunday.

“A majority of collisions and roadway deaths are preventable if motorists follow basic traffic safety rules,” Farrow added. “Enjoy the holidays but remember: always wear a seat belt, drive at a speed safe for roadway conditions, eliminate distractions while driving and always designate a sober driver.”

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