DUI Checkpoints in San Benito County, CA

 

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San Benito County, nestled in the rolling hills of Central California, includes communities like Hollister, San Juan Bautista, and smaller towns surrounded by farmland and vineyards. Highways like Highway 25, Highway 156, and Highway 101 serve as main arteries connecting locals and travelers.

In 2024, San Benito County reported over 40 DUI-related crashes, including a few serious injuries. To keep the roads safe, law enforcement runs regular DUI checkpoints, especially during weekends, holidays, and local festivals such as the Hollister Hills Motorcycle Rally and the San Benito County Fair.

Hollister – Monterey Street near 4th Street

Exact Location: Downtown Hollister, close to city parks and restaurants.

Agency: Hollister Police Department

Details: This checkpoint is commonly active on Friday and Saturday nights from 6 PM to midnight. Officers stop vehicles to look for signs of impairment, check driver’s licenses, and ensure vehicle compliance.

San Juan Bautista – Fourth Street near Monterey Street

Exact Location: Historic downtown area near the Mission San Juan Bautista.

Agency: San Benito County Sheriff’s Office

Details: Checkpoints here are set up during local events and weekends, running from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Officers focus on alcohol and drug impairment, suspended licenses, and open container violations.

Hollister – Highway 156 near Fairview Road

Exact Location: Busy intersection near shopping centers and gas stations.

Agency: California Highway Patrol

Details: A strategic spot for holiday and weekend checkpoints. Officers usually operate between 6 PM and 11 PM, stopping every few vehicles to check for DUIs, cannabis use, and other infractions.

Tres Pinos – Highway 25 near Little Panoche Road

Exact Location: Rural crossroads near vineyards and ranches.

Agency: San Benito County Sheriff’s Office

Details: This checkpoint is less frequent but used during holiday travel periods or special events. Officers run checkpoints from 6 PM to 10 PM, targeting impaired drivers and unlicensed vehicles.

DUI Penalties in San Benito County

If you’re caught driving under the influence in San Benito County, expect serious legal consequences, even for a first offense.

First DUI Offense:

  • Up to $2,000 in fines and fees

  • 6-month driver’s license suspension

  • Mandatory DUI education programs

  • Possible jail time up to 6 months

  • Increased car insurance rates

Repeat Offenses:

  • License suspension can extend to 1–3 years

  • Ignition interlock device required

  • Jail sentences or formal probation

  • Costs can exceed $10,000 including fines, fees, and classes

Enhanced Penalties:

  • Felony charges if DUI causes injury or death

  • Longer prison terms

  • Permanent license revocation possible

  • Difficulty securing jobs or housing

Don’t risk it. If you plan to drink or use cannabis, make sure you have a safe way home. Use a designated driver, rideshare, or public transportation. DUI checkpoints aren’t about punishing—they’re about saving lives.