Sobriety checkpoint planned beginning Friday
A DUI sobriety checkpoint is scheduled for this weekend, beginning Friday, Nov. 12, 2010. The operation will take place at an undisclosed location in Lee County as the Sheriff’s Office continues its commitment to getting impaired drivers off our roadways and in support of education efforts such as the national “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.” campaign.
Checkpoint emphasis is placed on the following:
1. Remove impaired drivers from the roadway.
2. Reduce the likelihood impaired drivers will operate their vehicles on our roadways.
3. Heighten awareness.
4. Educate the public on the dangers of drunk driving.
Motorists are reminded it is a crime to mix alcohol, drugs and driving. Citizens are encouraged to avoid the risk of driving if they consume alcoholic beverages. While it may take several drinks for someone to become legally impaired, impairment begins with the first drink. Also, drunk driving is not a victimless crime. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, in 2009, 25 fatalities and 447 injuries in Lee County were alcohol related.
Daily enforcement, sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols by deputies with the Sheriff’s Office are a part of on-going efforts to curb traffic fatalities, injuries and crashes in Lee County. Additionally, responsible citizens can help by promptly reporting drunk drivers to law enforcement. Your best defense while driving is to wear your seat belt while in a car or use a helmet and protective gear when on a motorcycle. Finally, “Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk.” If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.
The Florida Highway Patrol will also be conducting D.U.I. checkpoints starting
Nov. 12, in Lee County.
Since DUI related crashes result in more deaths each year than total homicides, it is quite obvious impaired driving and impaired related crashes cons
safety and well being of the public. Reducing the deaths and injuries associated
with this violation is one of the most important goals of this and other law
enforcement agencies.
By the use of D.U.I. Enforcement information and education, we hope to maximize the deterrent effect and increase the perception of “risk of apprehension” of motorist who would operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.