The Modesto Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence checkpoint on Friday from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. at an undisclosed location.

Officials said checkpoint locations are selected based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes, with the goal of improving public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.

“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Traffic Safety Officer Ryan Olson said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety.”

Police reminded the public that impairment is not limited to alcohol, noting that some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Authorities also emphasized that while marijuana is legal for medicinal and recreational use, driving under its influence remains illegal.

Drivers convicted of a first-time DUI can face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, in addition to a suspended license.

The checkpoint is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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