Vallejo Police Department’s Traffic Division will conduct a checkpoint Thursday to make sure motorists are carrying their driver’s licenses and are not driving while impaired, Sgt. Michael Nichelini said.

The checkpoint will be set up in an undisclosed location within Vallejo’s limits, Nichelini said.

He said alcohol and drug-impaired deaths made up the largest category of overall vehicle fatalities in 2012, with 29 percent of all deaths caused by a drunken driver.

“A DUI checkpoint is a proven effective method to lower these numbers,” he said.

He said besides checking for impairment, officers will ask for the driver’s license. “When possible, specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug impaired driving.”

He said Vallejo Police Department is advising those who may be planning a gathering or celebration where alcohol will be served, or who are out of town, to designate a non-drinking, sober driver.

Even if no accident is involved, driving while impaired can be expensive, Nichelini said. “A DUI and drug-impaired arrest can costs up to $10,000 or even more, including time in jail, the loss of your driver’s license and high insurance rates.”

The checkpoint is being underwritten by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Nichelini said.

Those who see someone who appears to be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol may call 9-1-1 to report the incident, he said.

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