As the summer season draws to a close and Labor Day approaches, Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff Station deputies will be stepping up DUI enforcement in partnership with California Highway Patrol, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and other local police departments throughout Los Angeles County.
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The Avoid the 100 campaign started on Aug. 16 and will run through Monday, Sept. 2. During the crackdown period, there will be an increased law enforcement presence on the roads, including additional officers and DUI checkpoints throughout the county, and those caught driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs will be arrested.
Local deputies have scheduled another DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint for Friday, Aug. 30 between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location within Santa Clarita city limits.
The California Office of Traffic Safety reminds motorists to plan ahead during the crackdown and every day by designating a sober driver.
“The end of summer and Labor Day weekend is traditionally a time to have fun,” said Santa Clarita Valley Station Captain Becker. “Don’t let it turn into a time of tragedy or jail visit by driving impaired by alcohol or drugs. We will be out looking for those making that unwise and dangerous choice.”
The Avoid the 100 campaign involves the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station and CHP, among more than 115 local police departments across the state. Specially trained officers will be on hand to detect drivers under the influence of alcohol as well as legal or illegal drugs.
In 2011, 774 California drivers with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes. A first-time DUI conviction can cost as much as $10,000 in fines, legal fees and insurance increases.
During the Labor Day weekend in 2011, a total of 138 people across the county were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes involving drivers or motorcycle riders with a .08 BAC or higher. Of those fatalities, 83 percent occurred during early evening and overnight.
Funding for the Aug. 30 checkpoint is provided to Santa Clarita Valley Station by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to continue to work together to bring an end to these tragedies. If you see a drunk driver call 911.
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