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Community Corner

DUI Checkpoint Planned in Pacifica

Police in Pacifica will screen motorists at an undisclosed area on Friday, July 26.

The Pacifica Police Department plans a Driving Under the Influence/Drivers License Checkpoint starting at 7 p.m. Friday, July 26.

Police aren’t saying exactly where in the city the check will take place, only that it will continue until 1 a.m. Saturday, July 27.

Motorists passing through the checkpoint should expect short delays while officers speak with drivers and look for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment. They also will verify that motorists have a valid driver’s license.

Find out what's happening in Pacificawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Motorists who are caught driving impaired by drugs or alcohol can expect jail time, license suspension, and an increase in their auto insurance rates. They also will face fines, miscellaneous fees, DUI classes, and other expenses that can exceed $10,000.

While police officials acknowledge the delay to motorists can be frustrating, they will strive to minimize the wait.

Find out what's happening in Pacificawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In 2010, more than 10,000 people were killed nationally in motor vehicle traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 percent or higher. In California, there were 791 deaths.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while also yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent.

Funding for the Pacifica checkpoint is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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