The Escondido Police Department has announced they will be conducting DUI patrols on Saturday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., targeting those driving under the influence of not just alcohol but drugs as well, including prescription medications and marijuana. Interim Chief of Police Kevin Toth underscored the department's commitment to safety, as per the Escondido Police Department, "We urge everyone to be responsible when consuming alcohol, using recreational marijuana and even taking prescription drugs."
To those thinking a little weed or a few pills won't affect their driving, the Escondido Police Department reminds you that the legal ramifications are as serious as those for alcohol. It's a message that bears repeating, especially considering that driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal, even though it's legal for medicinal and recreational use. "Any time you are impaired, we urge you to not get behind the wheel of a vehicle," Toth said, as cited by the Escondido Police Department.
Getting nabbed while driving impaired is not just a matter of facing the music with law enforcement but also a financial symphony of fines and penalties. Those caught and charged with a first-time DUI can expect an average of $13,500 in fines on top of a suspended license. The numbers alone should be enough to encourage would-be revelers to think twice before driving impaired.
The funding for this operation comes through a solid stream of support from the California Office of Traffic Safety, which flows through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
