Saturday, March 28th, the LASD will be conducting a DUI checkpoint in West Hollywood between 7 p.m. and 3 a.m. The location of the checkpoint has not yet been disclosed. DUI checkpoints like this one have been a proven deterrent to would-be drunk drivers and are a tool that is often used by the LASD. According to Sgt. Daniel A. Dail, 33 people have been killed and 1,330 have been injured over the past 3-years in alcohol-related traffic collisions.
At DUI checkpoints like this, deputies look for signs of possible alcohol or drug impairment in the drivers of the vehicles, as well as check for proper licensing. Deputies are typically able to tell quickly whether or not someone is under the influence, and traffic through the checkpoint is usually only briefly delayed. For moments when a deputy isn’t sure about a driver, specially trained officers will be available to make evaluations.
Listed below are some tips provided by the LASD for those who choose to consume alcohol when they go out.
- Try and arrange a ride home before drinking begins, not just for yourself, but for friends, co-workers and anyone else who may be with you.
- If you have a designated driver, make sure there are non-alcoholic drinks available for him or her.
- If you’re hosting a party, make sure to keep an eye on how much people are drinking. If anyone tries to leave after consuming alcohol, don’t let them.
- Again if you’re hosting, make sure to provide food. Food slows the absorption of alcohol and also gives designated drivers something to munch on.
