The Modesto Police Department will conduct a DUI checkpoint Friday from 6:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. at an undisclosed location, authorities said.

Police said checkpoint locations are selected based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. Officials said the primary purpose of the checkpoints is to improve public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.

The department reminded the public that impaired driving is not limited to alcohol use. Police said some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs can interfere with driving ability. Authorities also noted that while medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal in California, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

According to the department, drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, in addition to a suspended driver’s license.

Funding for the checkpoint program was provided through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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