DUI Checkpoint Planned Friday In Novato

NOVATO, CA — Police officers will be stationed at an undisclosed location in Novato Friday evening to check drivers for signs of impairment. Drivers will also be screened for a valid license.

Locations for the DUI checkpoints are chosen based on areas where previous crashes involving impairment have occurred. Police said the primary goals of the checkpoint are to promote public safety and proactively remove drunk and high drivers from the street.

The Novato Police Department reminds drivers that impairment can be caused by more than just alcohol or marijuana, including certain prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs. Drivers convicted of a first-time DUI charge can expect to pay more than $13,000 in fines and penalties, along with having their license suspended.

DUI checkpoints are funded through grants awarded annually by the state Office of Traffic Safety.