During a recent DUI checkpoint in Encinitas, deputies from the North Coastal Sheriff's Station were actively monitoring drivers for signs of impairment due to alcohol or drugs. The operation, which spanned from Friday evening into the early hours of Saturday, was situated on the 1800 block of S. Coast Highway 101, a stretch known for its bustling nightlife and proximity to popular dining and entertainment spots in the area.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Department reported that over the course of the six-hour initiative, 680 vehicles passed through the checkpoint, with 419 of those directed into the checkpoint for inspection. A total of 27 cars were sent to a secondary evaluation, resulting in nine DUI evaluations and two DUI alcohol arrests, although they noted no DUI drug arrests were made that evening.

Additionally, the subset of drivers faced enforcement actions for other violations; three drivers were cited for operating a vehicle without a license, another received a citation for driving with a suspended license, and two vehicles were towed from the scene.

In a clear message regarding road safety, the Sheriff's Department reminded the public, "don't drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs", acknowledging the complexity of impairment that extends beyond alcohol -- to prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs that may impact driving abilities. A special mention of marijuana, which, despite its legal status both for medicinal and recreational use in California, still carries legal implications when implicated in impaired driving incidents, conveying the simple yet urgent reminder that "driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal."

The Encinitas checkpoint was not just a randomly planned exercise; the endeavor was strategically funded through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), which in turn is supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).