Modesto police to hold DUI checkpoint Friday night for second consecutive weekend
The Modesto Police Department will conduct a DUI checkpoint on Friday, March 27, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce impaired driving and improve road safety.
The checkpoint is scheduled from 8 p.m. Friday to 3 a.m. Saturday, the Modesto Police Department said in a social media post.
Officials said checkpoint locations are selected based on data showing areas with a history of impaired driving-related crashes.
The goal of the enforcement effort is to improve public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Traffic Safety Officer Ryan Olson said in a statement. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety.”
Police reminded the public that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs can also affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
While marijuana is legal in California, driving under the influence of cannabis remains illegal, officials said.
Drivers arrested for a first-time DUI can face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for the checkpoint was provided through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Authorities encouraged drivers to plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using a rideshare service or staying overnight if they plan to drink.
