Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and the California Highway Patrol would like to remind motorists to drive safely. Drivers are encouraged to buckle up, follow the speed limit and designate a non-drinking driver.

This reminder, and others, are part of the upcoming CHP Maximum Enforcement Period which began at 6:01 p.m. Friday and continues through 11:59 p.m. Monday.

“We encourage the public to put measures in place ahead of time to help make their road trip safe and enjoyable,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Leave early and allow for additional traffic delays, eliminate distractions behind the wheel, buckle up, and always designate a sober driver.”

Unfortunately, last year saw 40 people killed in collisions in California during Memorial Day weekend. This was a 60 percent increase from the same period in 2012. Of those who died within CHP jurisdiction, 40 percent were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of collision.

The MEP also dovetails with the National HIghway Traffic Safety Administration’s ongoing “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which is continuing through June 1 of this year.

“Seat belts and child safety seats increase a person’s chance of surviving a collision,” added Farrow. “Protect yourself and those that you love every trip, every time, and insist they buckle up.”

The CHP is aiming to keep roadways free from impaired drivers to increase travel safety for the holiday weekend. During the 2013 Memorial Day MEP, the CHP made more than 1,200 arrests for driving under the influence and hope to continue this record of safety in the coming weekend.