The holiday season can be dangerous for people on the roads. In
December 2023 alone, 1,038 people were killed in the U.S. in alcohol-impaired-driving
crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Eureka Police
Department wants to remind the public of the dangers of driving impaired and to
celebrate the holiday season responsibly by not driving under the influence.
From December 12 through New Year’s Day, Eureka Police Department will have
additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of
alcohol and/or drugs. The high-visibility enforcement effort is part of a national campaign,
Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, with the goal of stopping suspected impaired drivers who
put others at risk.
To that end, On Thursday, December 18th 2025, the Eureka Police Department will conduct
a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. at an
undisclosed location.
DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired
driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints are to promote public
safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Eureka Police Department’s
Chief Brian Stephens said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired
drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”
Drivers charged with a first-time
DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as
well as a suspended license.
“We want to make sure everyone gets home safely so that they can celebrate the holiday
season with their families and loved ones,” Eureka Police Department’s Commander Rabang said. [Ed. That’s Wayne Rabang.] “Not only is driving impaired illegal, but it is also dangerous and never
acceptable. We are asking everyone to do their part to keep themselves and everyone
on the roads safe.”
Eureka Police Department encourages everyone to stay in for the night or plan ahead by
designating a sober driver, using public transit or calling a taxi or rideshare service if you
intend to drink.Impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications,
cannabis products and other drugs may also cause impairment. If you plan on drinking or
taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. If you see
someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety
through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
CLICK TO MANAGE