Van Nuys DUI Checkpoints
Whether or not you are a new driver in Van Nuys, CA, you should know about DUI checkpoints in Van Nuys. These days, the Los Angeles police department is more than eager to apprehend drunk drivers. Several drivers have fallen victim because they do not understand the many technicalities involved in going through DUI checkpoint locations.
If you are facing a DUI charge, schedule a consultation with a seasoned DUI defense attorney to discuss an effective strategy for a smooth and successful resolution.
What Is a DUI Checkpoint?
A DUI checkpoint is a traffic stop placed at random intersections or roadways in cooperation with the California Office of Public Safety. The primary purpose of the checkpoint is to permit law enforcement officials to identify impaired drivers through screening and sobriety tests. DUI checkpoints are usually in areas with high amounts of traffic. In the long run, these checkpoints prevent drunk driving.
These checkpoints are often called roadblocks because Los Angeles law enforcement officials may block off a section of the roadway.
Saturation patrols serve the same purpose, but they also serve other legal purposes, such as checking for valid driver’s licenses and registrations, enforcing Van Nuys traffic safety rules such as seatbelt usage, and policing borders.
How Do Police Conduct DUI Checkpoints?
You will find DUI checkpoints in areas known for frequent drunk driving accidents and where there are many drunk driving arrests. Officials must make a public announcement beforehand and set up a proper sign and signal to notify drivers of the closure of city lanes for checkpoints. DUI checkpoints cannot be set up randomly, and any arrests must have probable cause.
Several laws and protocols guide DUI checkpoints, and officers and drivers must comply with all DUI laws.
What Happens at DUI Checkpoints in Van Nuys?
At a DUI checkpoint, a Los Angeles police officer will engage you in a discussion to find out if you are an impaired driver under the influence of alcohol, recreational marijuana, or prescription medications.
If an officer pulls you over, you will first be asked to roll down your window and provide your driver’s license and registration for general information purposes.
During the discussion, the police officer conducting the test will be looking to see if you are uncoordinated, smell like alcohol or recreational marijuana, have trouble answering questions, or exhibit any other signs of intoxication.
If you show signs of being drunk or impaired by over-the-counter drugs or prescription medications, you will be required to perform a DUI field sobriety test or a preliminary alcohol screening test.
How Do You Get Around a DUI Checkpoint?
When you see a DUI checkpoint, you can turn around or take a different route, so long as you do so legally. However, the law requires that once you are at a checkpoint, you must stop. Failure to stop will likely lead to a ticket.
The customary traffic safety laws are still in effect and must be obeyed. You still risk being pulled over for violating traffic safety laws, endangering other road users, or for impaired driving.
Although you can make a U-turn, you need to understand that the purpose of checkpoints is to promote public safety. If you are at a checkpoint, try to be patient and cooperate. This can help your misdemeanor attorney defend you if you are charged with DUI.
What Time Do DUI Checkpoints Start in Van Nuys?
Checkpoints in Los Angeles are usually set up late at night or early in the morning when there are more likely to be impaired drivers on the road. There is no specific time perimeter on the operations of a sobriety checkpoint. A checkpoint can last a whole weekend or a few days so long as it does not significantly inconvenience Los Angeles drivers.
How Effective Are DUI Checkpoints?
Los Angeles DUI checkpoints are put in place to help prevent injuries and death caused by drunk driving. While not everyone gets checked due to the random system of singling out drivers, data shows that these consistent and highly publicized sobriety tests have reduced the incidence of fatal car crashes in Van Nuys.
If you get arrested for DUI at a sobriety checkpoint in Van Nuys, you will need the help of Van Nuys DUI Attorneys. Get in touch today!
Are DUI Checkpoints Legal in Van Nuys?
According to California DUI laws, drivers of motor vehicles must stop and submit to a sobriety test by a Los Angeles police department official when asked to pull over. If you drive a motor vehicle in Van Nuys, law enforcement officials can single you out, question you, and administer field sobriety tests. A
s a driver, things could get complicated for you quickly when you violate the guidelines and procedures of a DUI checkpoint.
States where DUI Checkpoints Are Illegal
DUI laws vary by state, and some states do not permit DUI checkpoints. DUI checkpoints are only allowed by law in 38 states in the country, while there are 12 states where they are considered illegal. The 12 states include:
- Alaska
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Texas
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Where Are DUI Checkpoints Listed in Van Nuys?
The police department often announces where and when they will conduct a sobriety checkpoint in advance. This announcement is usually made via Van Nuys local media. The administrators of DUI checkpoints are tasked with choosing a reasonable time and location for a checkpoint to be in operation.
How Can California Criminal Defense Lawyers Help You?
You can jeopardize your clean record, future employment opportunities, and driving privileges if you are charged with DUI. In some cases, you may even get jail time.
If you have any DUI checkpoint issues, it is advisable to consult a California criminal defense attorney to prepare a solid defense and represent you in court if the need arises.
Contact the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney to ensure your rights are protected and your DUI issues are resolved in the smoothest way possible.
