Crime & Safety
DUI Checkpoint Planned Friday Night In SMC
Heading into the Labor Day weekend, officers in San Mateo will be checking vehicles for impaired drivers.
SAN MATEO, CA — The San Mateo Police Department is reminding drivers to avoid impaired driving over the long weekend and will conduct a DUI checkpoint overnight Friday.
In a news release, the department said checkpoint locations are chosen based on data reflecting previous impaired-driving crashes and their primary purpose to discourage people under the influence from getting behind the wheel.
"Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk," said San Mateo Sgt. Craig Collom. "Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety."
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Officers remind drivers that alcohol is not the sole source of impaired driving, as some medications and over-the-counter drugs can interfere with abilities. While marijuana use is legal for people over 21, driving under its influence is not legal. Drivers on a first-time DUI charge can have their license suspended and pay $13,500 in fines and penalties on average.
Friday's checkpoint is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. and conclude at 2 a.m. near South Norfolk Street and Shoreview Avenue.
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