The Madera Police Department will conduct a DUI checkpoint Saturday night at an undisclosed location, police said.

The checkpoint will operate from 7:30 p.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday. Police said checkpoint locations are selected based on data showing where impaired driving-related crashes have occurred.

The department said the primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.

Madera police reminded drivers that impairment can involve more than alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs can interfere with driving. Although medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

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

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