New Year's Eve is a big night for CHP officers, as they look to keep everyone safe on the road.
NBC Bay Area's Cheryl Hurd went on a ride-along Wednesday night and got a behind-the-scenes look at how officers deal with the pressures of keeping the roads safe.
CHP officer Amanda Meier is ringing in the new year with a 12-hour shift. She said she is patrolling Highway 101 from Highway 92 to Woodside Road on the Peninsula.
It is a beat she is familiar with, and on Wednesday night, it may be busier than most.
"I think everyone knows that we usually go out in full force," Meier said.
Meier said officers are looking for distracted drivers and those who got behind the wheel after one too many drinks.
While she is looking out for the safety of drivers, she is also focused on the safety of fellow officers.
Local
"I mean, it's like a brotherhood I guess," Meier said. “Try to support one another, don’t want to leave anyone out there alone in an unsafe situation,” she added.
This year, officer safety has become an even hotter topic after increased threats against police agencies nationwide. Before Wednesday night’s patrols, every CHP officer was warned to be extra vigilant.
Nevertheless, New Year's Eve night will be a long one for Officer Meier.
"I think everybody sometimes makes a mistake, but hopefully not tonight."
