LOMPOC P.D. CHECKPOINT SEEKS TO SAVE LIVES

LOMPOC- APRIL 29th, 2010

Drunk driving is one of America’s deadliest crimes.  In California last year 1,029 people died in crashes involving a driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.  That is why Lompoc Police announced today they will be holding a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint on Friday April 30 th, 2010, from 6 p.m. to midnight, somewhere within the City Limits.

“Make no mistake. Our message is simple. No matter what you drive—a passenger car, pickup, sport utility vehicle or motorcycle—if we catch you driving impaired, we will arrest you. No exceptions. No excuses,” said Sergeant Ed Lardner.  “We will be talking to drivers, making sure they are not impaired, arresting those who are, and getting the word out that impaired driving and driving without a proper license is not acceptable in Lompoc.

Lompoc Police advises that by following these easy steps, a driver can enjoy a safe and festive evening without jeopardizing their life and the lives of the others who may be on the road. 

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and give that person your keys;

• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely;
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to call 911.

Driving impaired is simply not worth the risk. The consequences are serious and real. Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for driving while impaired can be significant. Violators face jail time, the loss of their driver’s license, higher insurance rates, and dozens of other unanticipated expenses.

Funding for this checkpoint comes from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.