Gilroy Police will conduct a DUI checkpoint next weekend at an undisclosed location within the city limits, according to the Gilroy Police Department. The checkpoint will take place from 7pm May 17 to 1am May 18.
Authorities select DUI checkpoint locations based on data that show a concentration of incidents of impaired driving related crashes, says a press release from the police department. The chief purpose of DUI checkpoints is to take suspected impaired drivers off the road, thereby promoting public safety.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Gilroy Police Sgt. Michael McMahon said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”
The press release reminded motorists that impaired driving offenses are not only alcohol related. It is also illegal and dangerous to drive while under the influence of certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
And even though recreational marijuana is legal, driving under the influence of cannabis is not permitted, authorities said.
Furthermore, impaired driving is not only dangerous to you and others on the roads. A DUI conviction can be costly, with an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties for a first-time offense, police said.
Funding for the May 17-18 DUI checkpoint comes from a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
