The San Diego County Sheriff's Department sends a stern warning to drivers: steer clear of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In a statement released to the public, the Santee Sheriff's Station announced plans to conduct a DUI checkpoint from 8:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. this Saturday, June 8, with its location within the City of Santee kept under wraps, which is a tactic-based on where past incidents involving impaired drivers have occurred, the very essence of these checkpoints is to serve the public's safety by identifying and removing potentially impaired drivers from the street.
While alcohol often comes to mind when thinking of DUIs, the Sheriff's Department was keen to remind that impairment can also come from legal substances, such as certain prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications, as well as marijuana that despite its legality for medicinal and recreational use still illegal to use while driving, it's illegal to operate a vehicle under their influence.
To sidestep the risk of DUI, the Sheriff's Department urges the use of alternative transportation for those who've been drinking or taking medications that might impair driving abilities – whether it be a sober friend, ride-share services, taxis, or public transport – always have a plan in place before you indulge, also imploring those walking while impaired to take precautions by having a sober companion or waiting until a sober ride is available. It doesn’t end there. Party hosts are advised to keep an eye on their guests' alcohol consumption and their subsequent means of getting home responsibly.
A DUI charge isn't light on the wallet either, with first-time offenders looking at shelling out an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, not to mention a suspended license. The efforts to curb DUI incidents are funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, funneled through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, part of ongoing efforts to enhance traffic safety – according to the official statement from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.
