DUI Checkpoint Planned Friday In San Jose

SAN JOSE, CA — A DUI checkpoint is planned Friday night at an undisclosed location in San Jose, and police are reminding drivers to refrain from alcohol, marijuana and certain medications that can cause impairment.

Police said the location of the checkpoint was selected based on data showing a higher number of crashes related to impairment, aiming to prevent more incidents in the future. The checkpoint will be in place between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m.

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

Drivers facing a first-time DUI can expect to pay more than $13,000 in fines an penalties, along with having their license suspended. Officials also underlined that driving under the influence is not confined to alcohol, and drivers can be arrested for impairment from medicinal and recreational marijuana or other drugs that can interfere with driving.

Funding for DUI checkpoints comes from grants distributed by the state Office of Traffic Safety.