Hoodline reports that the San Jose Police Department is planning a DUI checkpoint on the night of December 15 to curb the number of motorists behind the wheel who are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
According to the statement issued by the SJPD, the checkpoint will be held at an undisclosed location from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Friday. The law enforcement agency is keeping the location secret so that drivers do not have a chance to maneuver around it.
DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data that shows past incidents of impaired driving-related crashes or arrests.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Lieutenant Nqui Scherry with the San Jose Police Department said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves public safety.”
The San Jose Police Department reminds motorists that impairment is not only caused by alcohol. While it is legal to consume marijuana in the state of California, it is illegal to drive while under its influence. Some prescription and even over-the-counter drugs may also interfere with driving ability.
On average, drivers who are charged with DUI, even for a first-time offense, can face $13,500 in fines and penalties as well as a suspended license for one year.
Funding for this and other area checkpoints comes from a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
