Checkpoint Scheduled This Weekend In Petaluma

PETALUMA, CA — The Petaluma Police Department is planning to conduct a DUI/driver's license checkpoint this weekend.

The checkpoint is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17 through 2 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 18 at an undisclosed location within Petaluma city limits.

"The deterrent effect of DUI checkpoints is a proven resource in reducing the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol or drug-involved crashes," Petaluma police Sgt. Walt Spiller said. "Research shows that crashes involving an impaired driver can be reduced by up to 20 percent when well-publicized DUI checkpoints and proactive DUI patrols are conducted routinely."

Spiller said the location of DUI checkpoints is chosen based on collision statistics and the frequency of DUI arrests, affording the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence. Locations are also chosen with the safety of officers and the public in mind.

In California, 1,370 deaths happened in 2021 because someone failed to designate a sober driver. The number, taken from the most current data available, accounted for nearly a third of all traffic deaths that same year in California. Nationally, the data showed 13,384 people were killed by an impaired driver.

During Saturday's checkpoint, officers will look for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment and check for drivers for proper licensing, delaying motorists momentarily. When possible, specially trained officers will evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving, which now accounts for a growing number of impaired driving crashes.

Recent Checkpoint Statistics

In a checkpoint held July 6 on Petaluma Boulevard North at Gossage Avenue:

• 1,202 vehicles went through the checkpoint
• 1,085 vehicles were screened
• One person was arrested for suspected DUI alcohol
• Two drivers were cited for driving on a suspended license
• 13 drivers were cited for driving without a license

Police said the person suspected of DUI entered the checkpoint at approximately 80 mph and nearly collided with another motorist who was stopped and talking with an officer.

After the near-miss, the driver failed to stop at the checkpoint as directed and had to be chased down, police said. When officers caught up to the driver, he yielded on Corona Road and was arrested for DUI.

Over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, five drivers were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

'Driving Under The Influence Is 100 Percent Preventable'

The Petaluma Police Department encourages people who visit and enjoy the city to plan ahead and avoid drinking and driving by designating a sober driver, using ride-share, or calling a taxi. Driving under the influence is 100 percent preventable, according to police.

"The Petaluma Police Department is committed to increasing overall traffic safety and reducing the number of alcohol-related collisions," Spiller said. "We will continue our efforts to locate and identify impaired drivers. Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 to $20,000 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license."

A grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration funds this weekend's checkpoint.