The California Highway Patrol (CHP) will conduct a statewide DUI crackdown during Halloween night, deploying all available officers for a 12-hour maximum-enforcement operation from 6 p.m. on October 31 to 6 a.m. on November 1.
Drivers caught under the influence could face license suspension and financial penalties exceeding $15,000, including fines, legal fees, insurance hikes, and mandatory ignition interlock devices.
The CHP said it is mobilizing its entire force because 18% of all Halloween-period crashes last year were caused by DUIs. During that period, there were 90 DUI-related collisions, resulting in two deaths, 60 injuries, and 120 arrests statewide.
Attorney Dave Noh explained that DUI arrests in California trigger both administrative and criminal penalties, making daily life difficult after an arrest. Police seize the driver’s license immediately and issue a 30-day temporary permit. The state later confirms the suspension period after reviewing blood-alcohol test results and administrative findings.
For first-time offenders over 21, licenses can be suspended for up to four months. However, installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) — a breath-based engine lock — allows an immediate switch to a restricted license. The device prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected and requires periodic breath samples while driving.
Since 2019, California has required the IID for up to four years for first-time offenders who cause injury and for repeat offenders. A first-time DUI with injury leads to a minimum one-year license suspension and mandatory IID installation, while repeat offenders who cause injury or death can lose their licenses for up to five years.
Legal experts estimate even first-time DUI offenders in California face at least $10,000 in total costs, including $2,500–$10,000 in bail, $2,000 in court fines and fees, and an average $2,500 attorney fee. Additional expenses include vehicle towing, license reinstatement, DUI education programs, increased insurance premiums, and IID installation and maintenance costs ($100–$150 for installation and $70–$100 monthly). Altogether, the financial impact can exceed $15,000.
The CHP urged drivers to designate a sober driver or use rideshare, taxi, or public transportation after drinking. It also advised the public not to drive or ride with anyone under the influence and to report suspected DUI drivers by calling 911.
CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee emphasized that responsibility saves lives: “Whether it’s Halloween or any other night of the year, choosing not to drive after drinking can save a life. When everyone drives responsibly, we can prevent tragedy.”
BY YOONJAE JUNG [jung.yoonjae@koreadaily.com]
