By SDCN Staff
Sacramento, CA–The California Highway Patrol is deploying a new generation of low-profile, specially marked patrol vehicles to crack down on what can only be described as “video game-styled” driving on the highways.
“The new vehicles give our officers an important advantage,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “They will allow us to identify and stop drivers who are putting others at risk, while still showing a professional and visible presence once enforcement action is needed.”
The 100 Dodge Durangos-paired with the CHP’s existing high-performance fleets including Dodge Chargers and Ford Explorers—blend into traffic just enough to observe the most reckless and dangerous behaviors without immediate detection. Once enforcement begins, their markings serve as a reminder that safety is the CHP’s top priority.
With over 390,000 crashes annually in California and nearly 1,000 daily reports of reckless driving, these new tools will help CHP officers hold the most egregious violators accountable. Last year, officers issued almost 18,000 citations to drivers speeding over 100 miles per hour.
According to CHP, speed is a factor in approximately 30% of all crashes and a major contributor to traffic fatalities and injuries. It is dangerous because it decreases reaction time, extends stopping distance, and intensifies the severity of crashes.
CHP is targeting dangerous drivers to reduce injuries, prevent fatalities, and restore a sense of safety on California’s roadways.
“We urge all drivers to obey speed limits, avoid aggressive behavior, and share the road responsibly,” CHP stated in a news release.
The CHP is positioning the first 25 patrol vehicles in various regions across California this week. All 100 high-performance patrol units will be strategically placed along California’s busiest, high-risk roadways by June.
