The New Santa Ana reports that the Costa Mesa Police Department has announced it will hold a DUI checkpoint on Friday, April 28, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Saturday within the city limits.
The exact location of the Orange County checkpoint was not disclosed. However, law enforcement officials say the sites are chosen based on data indicating where the highest concentration of impaired driving incidents has occurred.
According to the statement, the primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is not to make arrests but to promote public safety, taking impaired motorists off the road and providing educational information.
“Impaired driving is preventable,” Lt. Stephanie Selinske said. “It’s a choice. If you’ve been drinking or taking drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternative transportation to take you places.”
“Our preference is to have zero DUI drivers on our roadways,” Chief Ron Lawrence told reporters. “And those who choose to drink do so responsibly by always having a designated driver. DUI checkpoints are a way to educate our community, and our hope is people learn to plan ahead with alternative transportation when out drinking.”
The Costa Mesa Police Department reminds community members that a driver can be impaired not only after consuming alcohol but also marijuana and other narcotics. While marijuana is legal in our state for recreational use, getting behind the wheel while under its influence is considered illegal. Also, drivers can be cited for impairment when on some prescription or even over-the-counter drugs.
Even a first-time DUI can cost $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as having a suspended license for a year.
Friday’s checkpoint is funded through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety and the National Highway Traffic Administration.
