DUI/Driver License Checkpoint Coming Up In South Bay

REDONDO BEACH, CA – The Torrance Police Department will be conducting a DUI/Driver License Checkpoint on December 20, 2018, at an undisclosed location within the city limits between 8:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.

"DUI Checkpoints like this one are placed in locations based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests, affording the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence," the Torrance Police Department press release said. "Locations are chosen with safety considerations for the officers and the public."

Officers will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment as well as checking drivers for proper licensing, delaying drivers only momentarily. When possible, specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving, which now accounts for a growing number of impaired driving crashes, the press release said. Torrance police warn that if you’re taking medication – whether prescription or over-the-counter – drinking even small amounts of alcohol can greatly intensify the impairment affects.

The Torrance Police Department offers these reminders to ensure everyone has a safe night that doesn’t involve a DUI:

• Decide before you go out whether you plan to drink or drive. You can’t do both.
• If you plan to drink, designate a sober driver before going out or map out another safe way to get home by taxi, ride-share or public transportation. You can also look up designated driver services in your area using the National Directory of Designated Driver Services.
• See your friend or other patron impaired trying to get behind the wheel? Take the keys and help them make other arrangements to get where they are going safely.
• Report drunk drivers – Call 911. People are encouraged to be a part of the designated driver very important person (DDVIP) program. As a DDVIP, you can ensure those drinking get home safely and get rewarded for it. Partnering bars and restaurants statewide have created non-alcoholic specialty drinks (“DDrinks”) for sober drivers.

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