A DUI sobriety checkpoint is scheduled for this weekend, beginning Friday, Oct. 14, 2011. The operation will take place at an undisclosed location in Lee County as the Sheriff’s Office continues its commitment to getting impaired drivers off our roadways and in support of education efforts such as the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.

Checkpoint emphasis is placed on the following: Remove impaired drivers from the roadway, reduce the likelihood impaired drivers will operate their vehicles on our roadways, heighten awareness and educate the public on the dangers of drunk driving.

Motorists are reminded it is a crime to mix alcohol, drugs and driving. Citizens are encouraged to avoid the risk of driving if they consume alcoholic beverages. While it may take several drinks for someone to become legally impaired, impairment begins with the first drink. Also, drunk driving is NOT a victimless crime. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, in 2010, there were 521 alcohol related crashes in Lee County resulting in 20 fatalities and 368 injuries.

Daily enforcement, sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols by deputies with the Sheriff’s Office are a part of on-going efforts to curb traffic fatalities, injuries and crashes in Lee County. Additionally, responsible citizens can help by promptly reporting drunk drivers to law enforcement.