NEWARK, CA — The Newark Police Department will conduct a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint Saturday, July 6, from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. The exact location has not been revealed publicly.
According to preliminary data from the California Highway Patrol, seven people were killed and 73 injured in alcohol-related crashes statewide on the 4th of July last year.
“Drinking and driving is a bad combination,” Newark Police Chief Michael Carroll said. “The consequences are abundantly clear, yet people still make the poor decision to drive after drinking. Please be smart and make this 4th of July holiday a fun and memorable one.”
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The police department suggests that if you are headed to 4th of July parties, designate a sober driver before heading out for the evening. If you are hosting a party, offer nonalcoholic drinks for designated sober drivers and monitor who is drinking. When you see people leave who have been drinking ask them how they are getting home. Call a cab, call Uber or Lyft, or offer to let them stay the night if a sober driver is not available to take them home.
“Driving with just a buzz doesn’t cut it,” Officer Johnson said. “With the rise in ride-share options, there really is no excuse for driving impaired.”
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The average cost of a DUI arrest is approximately $13,500, which takes into account vehicle impound fees, fines, attorney fees, auto insurance hikes and other penalties.
Don't forget that prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and marijuana can all land you a DUI, especially when used in combination with alcohol or other drugs.
Funding for the DUI checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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