DUI Checkpoints Planned For San Fernando Valley This Weekend

NORTHRIDGE, CA — The Los Angeles Police Department will ramp up drunken-driving enforcement this weekend with a series of DUI checkpoints and extra patrols across the city this weekend, including in Northridge.

The DUI checkpoint locations target areas with a record of impaired driving-related crashes and arrests. Police will also be checking to ensure drivers are properly licensed, according to the LAPD.

"The Los Angeles Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol," department officials said in a written release. "Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal."

Drivers 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 LAPD.

The checkpoints will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. at the following locations:

Thursday

• Whittier Boulevard and Fresno Street in Boyle Heights

Friday

• Century Boulevard and Western Avenue in South Los Angeles
• Vermont Avenue and Melrose Avenue in East Hollywood
• Tampa Avenue and Business Center Drive in Northridge

Additionally, additional officers will be deployed in the San Fernando Valley from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday for a DUI saturation patrol.