Sheriff’s deputies will be screening vehicles, looking for intoxicated drivers in Rancho Mirage next Friday, it was announced Friday.
A planned DUI checkpoint is planned for an undisclosed location in the city beginning at 7 p.m. and continuing until about 3 a.m., according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputy Frank Avila said deputies will be searching for motorists driving under the influence of any impairing substance, not just alcohol. Marijuana can also lead to a DUI, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs.
In recent years, California has seen an increase in drug-impaired driving crashes, according to the sheriff’s department.
Checkpoint locations are chosen based on historical data related to DUI crashes and arrests.
Those arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can spend time in jail and pay up to $13,500, including fines, fees, classes, license suspensions and other expenses.