Sheriff conducting two special patrols in Yucca Valley today (8/27)

The deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Morongo Basin Station will be conducting two special traffic patrols in Yucca Valley on Thursday (August 27).

Beginning at noon, the deputies will conduct a traffic safety operation focusing on drivers who endanger pedestrians and cyclists. They will be on the look out for driver behavior that endangers others, including speeding at intersections, running stop signs, and blocking crosswalks. 

Deputies also offered safety tips for pedestrians, encouraging them to use crosswalks and pay attention to vehicles when walking. They also remind cyclists to wear a helmet, obey traffic laws, and yield to pedestrians.

At 4:00 p.m., deputies will move into another traffic operation, as they focus their attention on impaired drivers who are under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Morongo Basin deputy R. Quiroz Falcon said, “Impaired driving is preventable. It’s a choice. If you’ve been drinking or taking drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you places.”

Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.