Yo! Venice reports that the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) will conduct saturation patrols in the Venice area over the weekend.
According to a statement released by the LAPD, the DUI checkpoints include neighborhoods in Venice, Del Ray, Manchester Square, Mar Vista, Oakwood, Palms, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista, and Westchester.
The law enforcement agency says that the DUI saturation patrols or checkpoints are determined based on the greatest number of incidents of DUI-related crashes and arrests in the past. The LAPD stresses that the emphasis of the checkpoints is to ensure public safety and to get DUI motorists off the road.
LAPD Commander Pasos told reporters, “Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk. Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety,” he said.
The public is reminded that the charge of DUI is not only for motorists who choose to drive while under the influence of alcohol. A DUI arrest can result if someone drives while under the influence of marijuana, prescription drugs, or over-the-counter medications. Each has the potential to cause impairment.
While using marijuana for recreational or medical purposes is legal in California, driving while under its influence is illegal.
Because even a first-time charge of DUI can carry an average cost of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license, it is better not to take the risk.
