The Chula Vista Police Department will be on the lookout for those driving under the influence on Saturday at an undisclosed location.
The Driving Under the Influence (DUI) checkpoint will be held on March 18 at an undisclosed location from 6:30 p.m. through midnight, according to a statement released Wednesday by the department. According to CVPD Agent Brian Carter, these checkpoints are determined based on data that shows impaired-driving crashes.
The checkpoint is also held on St. Patricks Day Weekend.
According to California Highway Patrol Commissioner Amanda Ray, three people were killed and 76 people were injured statewide due to DUI crashes last St. Patrick's Day. Additionally, 211 people were arrested by CHP on suspicion of DUI.
"If you plan on drinking alcohol on St. Patrick's Day, do not rely on luck … use a ride-share service, public transit, or a taxi to ensure you reach your destination safely," Ray said. "Not having a plan in place if your celebration includes the use of alcohol can result in a crash, jail time, injuries, or even death."
According to CVPD Agent Carter, the use of prescription
medications and over-the-counter drugs may also interfere with driving. Medicinal and recreational marijuana may be legal, but driving under the influence of the psychoactive drug is illegal.
Anyone who sees a suspected impaired motorist is urged to call 911.
