The Orange Police Department will be conducting a DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint tonight, at 1800 W. Chapman Avenue, between the hours of 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
DUI Checkpoints like this one are placed in locations based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests. Officers will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment, with officers checking drivers for proper licensing.
DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes and frequency of DUI arrests. The primary purpose of a DUI checkpoint is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Sergeant David Barr said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety.”
The Orange Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While 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 this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Here’s what happens if you get caught at a CDL and DUI checkpoint in California:
Legal Repercussions
- For Regular Drivers:
- DUI arrest if BAC ≥ 0.08%.
- Penalties include fines, license suspension, DUI school, and possible jail time.
- For CDL Holders:
- Stricter BAC limit: 0.04% when operating a commercial vehicle.
- First offense: CDL suspended for 1 year (3 years if transporting hazardous materials).
- Second offense: Lifetime CDL disqualification under California and federal law.
- You must notify your employer within 30 days of a DUI arrest or conviction.
- Criminal penalties: fines, probation, DUI education, and possible jail time.
Impact on Employment
- CDL suspension means you cannot legally drive commercial vehicles, often resulting in job loss.
- Many employers have zero-tolerance policies for DUI convictions.
- Future employment in trucking or logistics becomes very difficult.
Impact on Auto Insurance
- Personal Auto Insurance:
- A DUI can increase premiums by 148% to 186%, adding $3,000+ annually.
- Some insurers may cancel or refuse renewal.
- You may need an SR-22 filing for 3 years to reinstate driving privileges.
- High-risk classification lasts 3–7 years, sometimes up to 10 years on your DMV record.
- Commercial Insurance:
- CDL DUI makes you a high-risk driver, leading to steep premium hikes or denial of coverage.
- If you own your truck, this can make continuing your business nearly impossible.