Crime & Safety

Police Step Up DUI Crackdown

The national 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign will last through the Labor Day weekend.


—Written by Laura Dudnick

Law enforcement agencies throughout California and the nation will be stepping up DUI enforcement through the Labor Day holiday, from Aug. 16
through Sept. 2.

During the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, there will be an increase in law enforcement presence on the roads and additional checkpoints throughout the state, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) andCalifornia Highway Patrol.

Those caught driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs will be arrested.

"As people get together to celebrate the holiday weekend, it is important that they remain responsible behind the wheel," said OTS Director Christopher J. Murphy. "Driving under the influence is extremely dangerous. California is increasing enforcement during the holiday to ensure that those who choose to drive while impaired will be caught and arrested."

Statistics show that, on average, two people die every day in California in an impaired driving collision, and many times that are seriously injured.

The CHP, Avoid DUI Task Forces and more than 115 local police departments across the state will be setting up DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols to deter potential impaired drivers and take those under the influence off the road.

In 2011, 774 California drivers with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes.

A first-time DUI conviction can cost up to $10,000 in fines, legal fees, and insurance increases.

Also on Patch:

Sheriff Gives 10 Tips for Avoiding Traffic Tickets

Identified: Man Killed in 280 Party Van Crash

Missing California Amber Alert Teen Rescued in Idaho; Suspect Killed



Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.