Lincoln Police to hold DUI checkpoint Aug. 15

The Lincoln Police Department will hold a DUI and Driver's License Checkpoint on Aug. 15, from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., at an undisclosed location within the city limits. The police department wants to remind the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over the counter drugs may impair driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or operating heavy machinery, which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana is legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal. Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired. During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs of impaired drivers that may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average $13,500 in fines and penalties as well as a suspended license. If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying home.