How DUI Checkpoints Work to Keep You Safe 

DUI checkpoints are a common method used by law enforcement to identify impaired drivers and promote road safety. Sometimes called drunk-driving checkpoints, DUI checkpoints are set up in specific locations where officers stop vehicles and check for signs of impairment. The goal is simple: to prevent accidents caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

While DUI checkpoints serve an important public safety purpose, they can sometimes feel like a hassle for drivers who are sober or have had just a drink or two and believe they are safe to drive. The process can be stressful—no one enjoys being pulled over unexpectedly. However, it's important to remember that these stops are about keeping everyone safe by identifying those who may be impaired and helping to prevent potentially dangerous situations on the road. 

What is a DUI Checkpoint? 

A DUI checkpoint is a place where police officers stop cars to check if drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These checkpoints are usually set up in busy areas, especially on weekends or holidays when people are more likely to drink and drive. Officers stop cars at random or in a certain order to quickly see if the driver is impaired. DUI checkpoints are legal in many states and help keep roads safer by stopping drunk drivers. 

How DUI Checkpoints Work 

At a DUI checkpoint police stop cars in a pattern, like every third or fifth car. When a driver is stopped, the officer will ask for a driver’s license and may ask a few questions to check for signs of drinking, such as slurred speech or the smell of alcohol. If the officer thinks the driver may be drunk, they might ask them to take a breathalyzer or do a simple sobriety test. If the driver fails, they can be arrested for DUI right there. These checkpoints are quick and meant to help keep roads safe. 

Effectiveness of DUI Checkpoints 

Not all states use DUI checkpoints—currently, only 38 states allow them—but they have been shown to reduce alcohol-related accidents and injuries. Studies, such as a 2009 CDC study showed that crashes involving alcohol are reduced by 17%, and that all crashes independent of alcohol involvement are reduced by 10-15%. 

A 2022 study found that DUI checkpoints led to a significant reduction in the number of local drivers testing with a breath alcohol content (BrAC) over .05% for up to a week after the checkpoint took place. 

Balancing the Inconvenience 

For many responsible drivers, the inconvenience of DUI checkpoints can feel frustrating. But it’s worth considering the larger picture: these checkpoints save lives and reduce the overall cost of alcohol-related accidents. According to research from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), for every dollar spent on DUI checkpoints, communities save between $6 and $23 in costs related to alcohol-related crashes. This includes medical expenses, property damage, and other associated costs. 

Despite the hassle they may sometimes cause, DUI checkpoints play a crucial role in ensuring that fewer impaired drivers are on the road, making it safer for everyone. 

Need Help After a DUI? 

Need help navigating the aftermath of a DUI? DUI.org is here to guide you through the process, from understanding your penalties to safely and responsibly getting back on the road. Contact a DUI.org state specialists today for help installing an IID or finding affordable SR-22 or FR-44 insurance after a DUI.