DUI Crackdown Planned In Concord

CONCORD, CA — The Concord Police Department will hold a DUI crackdown this weekend.

From 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 until 2 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 28, officers will be on the lookout for motorists suspected of driving under the influence, police said in a news release.

"Impaired driving is preventable," Lt. Renee Williams said. "It’s a choice. If you’ve been drinking or taken drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you places."

Those caught driving while impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license, according to the police department.

The Concord Police Department reminded the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving, which is why it is important to read warning labels about operating a vehicle, police said.

Further, while medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal, police said.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.