DUI checkpoints are designed to protect the public from those who are driving under the influence. Arresting officers that conduct these DUI sobriety checkpoints have specific guidelines that they should follow in order for the stop and potential arrests are valid.
Unfortunately, many officers have been known to see the guidelines as a mere suggestion and often form their own rules. Because of this, a state assembly bill has been set forth to combat these issues and provide specific guidelines and procedures that officers must follow.
According to the Pasadena Star News, DUI checkpoints are being used more as a way to generate revenue rather than to protect the public from drunk drivers. Officers at DUI checkpoints utilize the stop to seize vehicles of drivers who are driving without licenses; in 2009 alone, more than 24,000 vehicles were impounded which is about 7 times more than the 3,200 DUI offenders who were arrested during these check points.
The new law would require police officers to follow and abide by specific guidelines that include: establish a neutral formula for inspecting motorists, use proper lights and warning signs, perform DUI checkpoints during appropriate times, notify the public of the DUI checkpoint 48 hours prior and refrain from impounding vehicles of unlicensed drivers.
By following these guidelines, DUI checkpoints might actually become worth tax payers money as they will begin to protect the public rather than make the checkpoint a hassle for the surrounding businesses.
If you find yourself arrested during a DUI checkpoint, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys immediately as you have only 10 days to contact the DMV to request a hearing on the automatic suspension of your license.
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