DUI, Driver's License Checkpoint Planned In North Hollywood

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA — A DUI and driver's license checkpoint is slated for Friday night in the North Hollywood area, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Friday's checkpoint will take place from 7 p.m. to midnight at Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Victory Boulevard. Checkpoint locations are subject to change or cancelation, police said.

"Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests," police said in a statement. "The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired. During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs."

Safety is the top reason for the patrols and checkpoints across the city, police said. It's part of the state's ongoing work as it pushes to stop the spread of COVID-19.

"The safety of our community is and always will be our mission," said LAPD Commander Woodyard, Commanding Officer, Traffic Group, in a statement. "We are still out there looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is still dangerous."

Impaired driving is more than just driving under the influence of alcohol, police said. It can include prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs that may interfere with driving.

It's important to read warning labels about driving or "operating heavy machinery," which includes driving a car, police said. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

"If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home," police said. "Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license."

Funding for the traffic program comes from a California Office of Traffic Safety grant, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.