Checkpoints planned in Coachella, Palm Desert and Palm Springs

Law enforcement agencies will be operating DUI and driver’s license checkpoints in three Coachella Valley cities tonight.

Sheriff’s deputies will conduct a checkpoint in Coachella from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., and in Palm Desert from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., both at undisclosed
locations. The Palm Springs Police Department will operate a checkpoint from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. at an undisclosed location in the city.

Officers will be checking drivers for signs of alcohol or drug impairment and making sure they have valid licenses.

The checkpoints are aimed at reducing the number of people killed or
injured on local roads by impaired drivers, getting impaired drivers off the streets and bringing attention to the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Motorists found to be under the influence can expect jail time, license
suspension, insurance increases and fines.

The checkpoints are funded by grants from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.