DUI, Driver's License Checkpoint Planned Friday In Marina Del Rey

MARINA DEL REY, CA — A DUI, driver's license checkpoint is planned for Friday night in Marina del Rey, Los Angeles police announced.

The checkpoint will be near Lincoln Boulevard and Maxella Avenue from 6 to 11 p.m., officials said.

Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests, officials said.

"The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired," police said in a statement. "During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs."

The state and LA County community continues to work to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

“The safety of our community is and always will be our mission,” Commander Woodyard, Commanding Officer, Traffic Group, said in a statement. “We are still out there looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is still dangerous.”

Impaired driving is not just from alcohol, LAPD said.

"Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving," police said. "Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or” operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal."

"If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home," police said.

Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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