The Garden Grove Police Department will conduct a DUI and driver’s license checkpoint this Friday, September 11, 2026, focusing on corridors with a long history of impaired‑driving crashes, unlicensed‑driver stops, and nighttime violations.
These checkpoints are funded through California Office of Traffic Safety grants supported by NHTSA.
Where Garden Grove PD Usually Sets Up DUI Checkpoints
Garden Grove PD consistently selects high‑risk intersections with heavy DUI‑collision data and prior fatal crashes. Common checkpoint locations include:
- Brookhurst & Lampson — high nighttime traffic and prior DUI collisions
- Chapman & Gilbert — repeated enforcement site
- Harbor & Westminster — major corridor with DUI‑related crashes
- Garden Grove Blvd & Euclid — historically high collision zone
- Valley View near Lampson — proximity to prior fatal DUI incidents
Criminal Charges and Impound Fees Drivers Face
Drivers stopped at these checkpoints may face:
- CVC 23152(a)/(b) — DUI charges with total costs often exceeding $13,000
- CVC 12500(a) — driving without a valid license
- CVC 14601 — driving on a suspended license, often a misdemeanor
- Impound fees typically include:
- $250–$350 tow fee
- $50–$75 per day storage
- Total often $500–$700+ depending on hold duration
Top CVC Violations Issued at Garden Grove Checkpoints
Garden Grove checkpoints frequently result in citations for:
- CVC 23152 — DUI
- CVC 12500 — unlicensed driver
- CVC 14601 — suspended license
- CVC 16028 — no proof of insurance
- CVC 26708 — illegal window tint
- CVC 24252 — inoperative lighting
What to Say If You’re Pulled Over
Keep your interaction short, calm, and professional. Provide your license, registration, and insurance when asked. You are required to identify yourself, but you do not need to volunteer extra information. Recommended statements include:
- “I prefer not to answer questions.”
- “I’m not sure.”
- “I’d like to remain respectful and cooperative.”
Tony Romo’s infamous traffic stop is a perfect example of what not to do. He talked too much, volunteered unnecessary details, and escalated the situation by trying to explain himself instead of staying quiet. Don’t repeat his mistakes.
Impact of a DUI on Employment and Auto Insurance
A DUI can severely affect employment, especially in fields requiring driving, background checks, or professional licensing. Consequences include:
- Job suspension or termination
- Professional license review or discipline
- Background check complications
- Auto insurance increases of 40–80%
- Possible carrier cancellation and mandatory SR‑22 for three years
Fatal DUI Trends in Orange County
Orange County continues to see rising DUI‑related fatalities, averaging 60–70 deaths per year. The trend has worsened over the past five years due to alcohol, marijuana, and polysubstance impairment.
Examples of fatal DUI crashes in Garden Grove include:
- 2023 Garden Grove Blvd & Brookhurst fatal DUI — pedestrian killed by impaired driver
- 2024 Westminster Ave DUI collision — two passengers killed
- 2025 wrong‑way DUI on the 22 freeway — local father killed driving home
Tips to Stay Out of Trouble
Drivers can avoid legal issues and stay safe by planning ahead:
- Use Uber or Lyft
- Choose a designated driver
- Leave your car at home if you expect to drink
- Check your license status
- Verify your insurance is active
- Keep documents accessible to avoid delays during a stop