DUI, Driver's License Checkpoint Planned In Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA, CA — A DUI and driver's license checkpoint is planned in Santa Monica Thursday night, police said.

The checkpoint will be at an undisclosed location in the city from 6 p.m. Thursday to 2 a.m. Friday, Lt. Rudy Flores of the Santa Monica Police Department said.

Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests, police said.

"The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired," Flores said.

Officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

"The Santa Monica Police Department is committed to keeping the traveling public safe," Flores said. "The safety of our community is and always will be our mission. We are looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is dangerous and puts others on the road at risk."

Impaired driving is not just from alcohol — but drugs, too.

"Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving," police said. "Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or 'operating heavy machinery,' which includes driving a car."

"While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal," police said.

"If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home," police said.

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

Funding for this checkpoint is provided to the Santa Monica Police Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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