17 Drivers Arrested, Cited At Temecula Checkpoint

TEMECULA, CA -- Seventeen drivers were arrested or cited this weekend during a DUI/driver's license checkpoint in Temecula, police said. More than 1,600 vehicles drove through the checkpoint, which took place from 8 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. in the 40300 Block of Winchester Road.

Police said one driver was arrested for felony DUI, two drivers were arrested on DUI-alcohol/drug impairment and 14 drivers were cited or arrested operating a vehicle unlicensed or while suspended/revoked.

A total of four vehicles were towed, police said.

Studies of California drivers have shown that 30 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems. A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14 percent) than did for alcohol (7.3 percent). Of the drugs, marijuana was most prevalent, at 7.4 percent, slightly more than alcohol, police said.

Drivers are encouraged to download the California Office of Traffic Safety DDVIP (Designated Driver VIP) free mobile app for Android or iPhone.

Drivers caught driving impaired can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to include jail time, fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspension and other expenses that can exceed $10,000.

The checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to ‘Report Drunk Driver – Call 9-1-1’.

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