CARLSBAD–The Carlsbad Police Department teams with the California Office of Traffic Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to promote DUI prevention and awareness in December.
The department will enhance enforcement from December 16 to January 1. Their mission is to prevent DUI related collisions and deaths that are common during this holiday period. Officers will be looking for drivers who appear to be driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
“Our goal is to prevent tragic and unnecessary deaths during the holiday season,” said Traffic Unit Lieutenant Christie Calderwood. “We would like to remind everyone to make good choices by designating drivers or using rideshare services to ensure everyone arrives safely home.”
Calderwood went on to note that impaired driving is not just caused by alcohol. It can be caused by some prescription medications or even over-the-counter drugs. Always read medication warning labels. Likewise, driving under the influence of marijuana is also illegal.
The fines and penalties for impaired driving average $13,500 and include a suspended license.