Residents and visitors in Lemon Grove should prearrange their rides home this weekend, as the San Diego County Sheriff's Office has announced a DUI checkpoint. Set for Saturday, September 20, deputies will be screening drivers from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. at a location that remains to be disclosed, in an effort to catch those driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office, this proactive measure seeks to curb impaired driving by setting up checkpoints at sites with a history of related crashes.
In line with findings that have identified where these incidents are most likely to occur, the undisclosed checkpoint aims to directly challenge the act of driving under its influence. The Sheriff's Office underscores that the effects of impairment can come from legal substances such as prescription medication and marijuana, which can still be legally purchased. Despite this legality, getting behind the wheel after consumption of these substances remains against the law. Drivers found to defy these regulations, especially when first-time offenders, face steep consequences starting at $13,500 in fines, not to mention suspension of their driving privileges.
The department reminds everyone that alternatives like sober designated drivers, taxis, ride-shares, or public transit exist to prevent getting behind the wheel impaired. Further, they caution that walking while impaired can present its own dangers, advising individuals to ensure they get home safely with the assistance of a sober friend or transportation service. In addition to self-care, the public is urged to care for the community by reporting drunk driving to authorities.
