The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department will conduct a DUI/driver license check at an undisclosed location in West Hollywood, between 7 p.m. Saturday and 4 a.m. Sunday.
According to the department, DUI checkpoints have been proven to reduce the number of people killed or injured in alcohol- or drug- involved car accidents. Research shows that crashes involving an impaired driver can be reduced by up to 20 % when well-publicized DUI checkpoints and DUI patrols are conducted routinely. DUI checkpoints are placed in locations based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests.
Deputies will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment with officers checking drivers for proper licensing. When possible, specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving, which now accounts for a growing number of car accidents. Recent statistics reveal that 30% of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems. A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14%) than did for alcohol (7.3 %). Of the drugs, marijuana was most prevalent, at 7.4%, slightly more than alcohol.
Yesterday the City of West Hollywood launched its annual holiday campaign to alert residents to the dangers of driving while under the influence. A press conference was held in front of a car smashed in an accident involving an intoxicated drive. The car will be on the display on the southeast corner of Santa Monica Boulevard at San Vicente through the campaign. The city also is distributing napkins in local bars and restaurants to promote the “Don’t Drink and Drive” campaign.
Good!! I’m tired of avoiding drunk drivers weaving down Santa Monica Bl. after the bars close.