If you’ve been looking for an excuse to try a driverless Waymo, here you go.
Santa Monica police will be setting up a DUI checkpoint on Friday, July 10, stopping cars as part of a high-visibility push to catch — and deter — impaired drivers.
The checkpoint runs from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location, chosen based on past crashes involving drugs or alcohol.
And yes, the heads-up is on purpose.
By announcing checkpoints ahead of time, police are hoping drivers think twice before getting behind the wheel while impaired.
“Research shows that accidents involving impaired drivers can be reduced by up to 20 percent when well-publicized, enforcement checkpoints and proactive DUI patrols are conducted routinely,” SMPD Lt. Richard Lewis said.
So what actually happens?
Officers briefly stop drivers, check for signs of impairment, and make sure they have a valid license. If something seems off, the driver may be directed to a secondary screening.
“Traffic officers will be looking for objective signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment and verify that motorists are in possession of a valid driver’s license,” Lewis said.
And it’s not just alcohol. Prescription meds, over-the-counter drugs, and even legal marijuana can all lead to a DUI if they affect your driving.
Getting caught isn’t cheap — a first-time DUI can cost around $13,500, plus a suspended license.
The checkpoint comes as SMPD continues stepping up enforcement. Officers have made dozens of recent DUI arrests, and in one case, police say an impaired driver nearly hit a pedestrian in a beach parking lot before fleeing — and getting caught soon after.
If you’re going out Friday night, plan ahead. A ride home is a lot cheaper than a DUI.
You’ve been warned.
