source: San Diego Union-Tribune
April 9, 2017
Lyndsay Winkley at the San Diego Union-Tribune reported a DUI checkpoint in Escondido over the weekend. One driver was arrested on suspicion of being drunk and 23 citations were issued. The checkpoint was set up at Second Avenue and Broadway between 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 a.m. Sunday.
Of the 1,447 drivers that passed through, 44 vehicles were sent to a secondary screening for failing to produce a driver’s license or for appearing to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Twenty-three drivers were ticketed for driving on a suspended license, driving without a license or for driving without insurance. Two motorists were cited for having unrestrained children in the car. Four vehicles were impounded.
Here are some tips to keep in mind should you encounter a DUI checkpoint.
Know When and Where
Understand that under federal law, all sobriety checkpoints must be publicized before they occur. Many California residents don’t know this, and that knowledge can make a very real difference. Find out where your local community publishes checkpoint dates and times, and stay abreast of the news.
Don't Change Course
If you’re approaching a sobriety checkpoint, do not turn off the road unless you’re approaching your destination. Any vehicles leaving the line are automatic red flags, and you can expect to see flashing lights in your rearview mirror.
What Police Look For
The officer will be looking for slurred speech, the smell of alcohol, and other obvious signs that you’ve been drinking. If the office suspects that you’ve had a drink, he or she will either ask you to breathe into a Breathalyzer or ask you to step out of the car to take field sobriety tests.
Can You Refuse Testing?
Unless you’re currently on probation for DUI, you have the right to refuse any and all tests. However, this might not be the right course of action if you are a minor.
If You're Arrested
If you are arrested for DUI at a sobriety checkpoint, your first call should be to an experienced DUI attorney. Contact Mr. Joshua Price for a free consultation on your case by calling (760) 613-5384?.