The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) is holding a driving under the influence (DUI) and driver’s license checkpoint on the east side this Friday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes, according to LBPD. The primary purpose of DUI/CDL checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking impaired drivers off the road, increase awareness of the dangers associated with drinking and driving, and serve as a deterrent to potential impaired and unlicensed drivers.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” LBPD Commander Jeremy Boshnack said in a public statement. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”
Alcohol is not the only cause of impaired driving. Some prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and marijuana may also interfere with driving.
Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
