LOS ANGELES—The Los Angeles Police Department has been supporting efforts from the California Office of Traffic Safety to teach drivers the importance of not driving under the influence.
According to a press release from the LAPD, DUI checkpoints and DUI Saturation patrols have proven to decrease the number of people who have been injured and killed from crashes involving drugs and alcohol. The state of California has seen an increase in drug-impaired driving crashes, in recent years. Prescriptions drugs, and marijuana can impair drivers and lead to a DUI.
DUI checkpoints are implemented in locations where the Department has seen an increase of accidents based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the LAPD will be conducting these checkpoints for their continuing commitment to lower deaths and injuries.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, from 2003-2012, a total of 10,327 people have died in alcohol-impaired crashes in California. In 2014, alcohol involved collisions led to 1,155 deaths and almost 24,000 injuries, the LAPD reported.
The LAPD notes that drivers can download the Designated Driver VIP app (DDVIP). The app helps to find nearby bars and restaurants that have free incentives such as free appetizers and non-alcoholic drinks for sober designated drivers. To report a drunk driver, call 9-1-1.
