Novato DUI, Driver’s License Checkpoint Set For Friday

NOVATO, CA – The Novato Police Department is conducting a sobriety and driver’s license checkpoint on Friday, Dec. 16 at an undisclosed location within the city limits.

According to a statement from the department, officers will be contacting drivers passing through the checkpoint for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment. Officers will also check for valid licensing.

“Research shows that crashes involving alcohol drop by an average of 20 percent when well-publicized checkpoints are conducted often enough,” the statement reads.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any DUI enforcement strategies, while also yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent. Checkpoints are placed in locations that give officers the best chance to deter drunk and drugged driving.

Drivers caught driving impaired can expect jail, license suspension, towing fees and insurance increases, as well as fines, fees, DUI classes and other expenses that can exceed $10,000.

The Novato Police Department’s checkpoint is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which reminds people to report suspected drunk driving by calling 911.

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