SANTA MONICA—On June 29, the Santa Monica Police Department issued a statement encouraging drivers to follow posted speed limit signs during the month of July, and beyond, to ensure safety on the roads.
The statement advises that during July 2026, the Police Department will have additional patrol officers monitoring traffic, speed, and drivers who are driving too fast for the roads given conditions.
The Police Department is asking drivers to plan ahead, follow posted speed limit signs, adjust their speed for weather related conditions, and avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating or weaving through traffic.
In addition to SMPD, on June 30, the California Highway Patrol department issued a statement for individuals who will be driving or on the road during the Fourth of July weekend. CHP will roll out its officers in full force, starting at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 2, and running until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 5. The CHP will be issuing out 100 undercover patrol vehicles to monitor California streets over the holiday weekend.
The California Highway Patrol reported on its website during 2025’s 78-hour Independence Day HEP, CHP officers responded to more than 850 speed-related crashes. At least seven of those collisions resulted in the loss of life, and nearly 400 crashes resulted in injuries to those involved. In addition, CHP officers made 1,311 arrests for driving under the influence – an average of one DUI arrest every three and a half minutes.
With the Fourth of July Holiday approaching, CHP advises drivers to slow down, take precautions, and report drivers who are driving dangerously on the roads by calling 9-1-1.
By Megan Hanson