The Madera Police Department will conduct a DUI checkpoint Saturday from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location, the department said.

Police said checkpoint locations are selected based on data showing impaired driving-related crashes. The checkpoints are intended to improve public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.

The department reminded drivers that impairment can be caused by substances other 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, police said.

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

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

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