Holiday travel spike brings surge in dangerous driving

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) - As the stretch from Thanksgiving through New Year’s gets underway, highways across the country — including right here in the Coachella Valley — are entering one of the most dangerous travel periods of the year.

National statistics show a continuing rise in holiday driving fatalities, with alcohol, drugs, and drowsy driving among the leading causes.

Local law enforcement agencies here in the Coachella Valley say they’re already seeing early signs of trouble: heavier traffic, more impaired drivers, and an uptick in fatigue-related incidents. For officers across the valley, this season isn’t just busy — it can be deadly.

Departments have increased DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols during this time.

They report that many of the crashes they respond to during the holidays are entirely preventable with a bit of planning and personal responsibility.

With celebrations ramping up and more people on the road, safety advocates are echoing the same advice: slow down, stay alert, and make smart choices before getting behind the wheel.