DUI/Driver's License Checkpoint Planned In Petaluma

PETALUMA, CA — The Petaluma Police Department Traffic Unit plans to conduct a DUI/driver’s license checkpoint this weekend.

The checkpoint is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, until 2 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 20, at an undisclosed location within the city limits, the Petaluma Police Department announced in a news release.

Officers will look for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment and check drivers for proper licensing — delaying motorists only momentarily, Petaluma police Sgt. Walt Spiller said.

When possible, specially trained officers will be on hand to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving, which now accounts for a growing number of impaired driving crashes, Spiller said.

Impaired drivers led to 780 deaths in 2020 in California. Nationally, the data from 2020 shows 11,654 people were killed by an impaired driver.

Research shows crashes involving an impaired driver can be reduced by up to 20 percent when well-publicized DUI checkpoints and proactive DUI patrols are routinely conducted. Checkpoint locations are determined by collision statistics, the frequency of DUI arrests, and whether it is safe for officers and members of the public.

The Petaluma Police Department remains committed to increasing overall traffic safety and reducing the number of alcohol-related collisions and will continue its efforts to locate and identify impaired drivers, Spiller said. 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.

People who visit and enjoy Petaluma are encouraged to plan ahead and avoid drinking and driving by either designating a sober driver, using a rideshare, or calling a taxi.

Saturday's checkpoint is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.