DUI Checkpoint Scheduled For This Weekend

HAYWARD, CA — The Hayward Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoint on February 8 from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location.

The checkpoint is part of an effort to reduce impaired driving-related crashes and improve public safety.

DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing areas with high incidents of impaired driving crashes. These checkpoints aim to identify and remove suspected impaired drivers before they pose a danger to others on the road.

"Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk," said Sgt. Cannon. "Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety."

Hayward police remind the public that impaired driving is not limited to alcohol consumption. Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can affect a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Additionally, while medicinal and recreational marijuana use is legal in California, driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal.

Drivers convicted of a first-time DUI offense can face severe consequences, including an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended driver’s license. These penalties serve as a strong deterrent against impaired driving and reinforce the importance of responsible decision-making.

The upcoming DUI checkpoint is made possible by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, funded through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Authorities encourage the public to plan ahead, use ride-sharing services or designated drivers, and avoid getting behind the wheel while impaired.