The Goleta Police Department is urging residents to make safe choices during the holiday season as part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign. The department highlighted that December can be a dangerous month for drivers, noting that in December 2023, 1,038 people died in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes across the United States, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
As part of their efforts, Goleta police will conduct a DUI checkpoint on Friday, December 12, 2025. The checkpoint will take place at an undisclosed location within Goleta city limits and will operate from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
The national enforcement campaign begins on December 12 and continues through January 1, 2026. During this period, law enforcement agencies across the country focus on reducing impaired driving incidents.
The Goleta Police Department advises community members to plan ahead if they intend to drink by designating a sober driver or using public transportation, taxis, or rideshare services. They also remind drivers that impairment can result not only from alcohol but also from prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other substances.
“If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive,” the department stated. “If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.”
Funding for this program comes from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
