The CHP reports more than 9,000 enforcement actions over the holiday period, cracking down on high-speed drivers while preparing for stricter 2026 laws.
CHP issued 9,308 citations during the 2025 New Year’s holiday period. Speeding, impaired driving, and seat belt violations remain top crash contributors. New laws increase penalties for drivers exceeding 100 mph.
The California Highway Patrol made it clear before the holidays: a special enforcement period was coming, during which officers would intensify efforts to catch dangerous driving behavior and traffic violations.
Now that the period has concluded, the results show significant enforcement activity, including hundreds of DUI arrests and thousands of citations issued.
CHP reports a total of 9,308 enforcement actions during the special period. This included 5,458 citations and 379 DUI arrests. Speeding was the most common reason drivers received tickets.
Of the citations, 2,972 were for exceeding the legal speed limit, and 92 of those involved drivers allegedly traveling at triple-digit speeds. Those caught at 100 mph or more now face California’s updated rules, which allow the DMV to impose penalties before cases even reach court.
Drivers exceeding 100 mph may face higher fines, potential license suspension, and points on their driving record. These measures target the most extreme speeders, who are overrepresented in serious and fatal collisions.
California is taking a multi-faceted approach to improve road safety. Alongside special enforcement periods and pre-court DMV actions, new measures are rolling out in 2026.
A pilot program using automated speed cameras, initially tested in San Francisco, is expanding to Los Angeles. This system allows fines to be issued without requiring a court appearance.
CHP officers are also employing strategic tactics to box in drivers participating in street takeovers or sideshows. As these programs progress, traffic and safety data will be closely monitored to determine their impact on California roads.
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