DUI checkpoint scheduled for today on Highway 50 East

A DUI checkpoint is slated for today on Highway 50 East in Carson City.

The checkpoint will be in the area of Mills Park. Motorists passing through will be stopped and have their identification checked between 5-11 p.m.

"Drunk driving is one of the America's deadliest crimes. Driving with a blood- alcohol content of .08 or higher is illegal in every state, yet we continue to see far too many people suffer as a result of impaired driving," said Sheriff Ken Furlong.

Since January, more than 200 people have been arrested in Carson City for drunk driving, he said.

"Making matters worse, 2010 has been a very deadly year for fatal automobile accidents along the Highway 50 corridor connecting Carson City and Lyon County," he said.

Motorists suspected of driving while intoxicated will undergo a field sobriety test and breath test. Under Nevada law drivers may not refuse a breath test. If a driver does not consent to a breath or a blood test the officer may force the driver to give a blood sample.

Bail for a DUI is set at $1,132. If convicted on a first offense, the person faces up to six months in jail, a $1,175 fine and loss of their driver's license for 90 days. They also must attend DUI school and a victim impact panel, both of which charge a fee.

The checkpoint is paid for by a grant from the Office of Traffic Safety.