DUI Checkpoint To Be Held In Palm Desert

PALM DESERT, CA — Police will set up a checkpoint to monitor for impaired drivers in Palm Desert on Dec. 20, officials announced Thursday.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department said the checkpoint will be held from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location in Palm Desert.

“Impaired driving is preventable,” Deputy Paul Abrego said. “It’s a choice. If you’ve been drinking or consuming drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you places.”

DUI checkpoint locations are placed in areas where impaired driving-related incidents tend to happen the most. Police hope to improve public safety through this effort by removing those who may be drunk or high behind the wheel from the road.

Police warn that it isn't just alcohol that can impair driving. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. And while recreational marijuana is legal, driving under the influence of it is not.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI can face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties and have their license suspended.

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