BLM schedules DUI checkpoints on public land within Imperial County
EL CENTRO, CA – Bureau of Land Management Law Enforcement Rangers will conduct driving under the influence (DUI) and registration checkpoints from noon to 2 a.m., Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, on BLM-managed public lands in Imperial County, within the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area.
Officers will be on the lookout for signs of alcohol and drug impairment, while verifying proper registration and licensing where required. DUI checkpoints are placed in locations based on collision statistics, the frequency of DUI arrests and overall safety considerations. These measures aim to deter impaired driving both on and off-road to keep visitors safe on public lands.
“The BLM encourages everyone to enjoy a fun and safe Thanksgiving holiday weekend,” said El Centro Field Manager Matthew Lohr. “Please remember that DUI laws apply both on and off the road. Always designate a sober driver and never drink and ride.”
The BLM reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. 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.
Law Enforcement Rangers are reminding the public to ‘Report Drunk Drivers – Call 9-1-1.’ For more information, visit www.blm.gov and the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area’s Facebook page.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.