Drivers are screened at DUI checkpoints by law enforcement.
What Are DUI Checkpoints?
DUI checkpoints are used by law enforcement as a net to capture and arrest suspected drunk drivers. They’re usually set up in cities in the vicinity of establishments that serve alcohol and during the hours that most people would be DUI, typically between the hours of 9pm-2am on weekends. These checkpoints are also utilized by law enforcement during holidays in which the consumption of alcohol is commonly associated, such as New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day, 4th of July and Labor Day.
The goal of DUI checkpoints is to remove impaired drivers and to bring awareness to the public of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. However, these checkpoints must be set up in a specific manner. Because drivers are being pulled over for no reason other than the checkpoint itself, DUI checkpoints must comply with the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution. A failure to comply with those standards invalidates a checkpoint.
What Happens At DUI Checkpoints?
Police will set up DUI checkpoints on high-volume roads, typically between alcohol-serving establishments and freeway on/off ramps. Drivers are ushered into lanes for vehicle inspection. Officers approach every vehicle that passes through will usually simply ask, “Have you been drinking this evening?” or some other probing question. The driver’s answer allows them to determine if you’re DUI and if you’ll need to pull the vehicle over for further investigation.
DUIAuthority Tip: When approaching a DUI checkpoint, if you make an abrupt maneuver to turn away from it and change direction so that you don’t have to go into the DUI checkpoint, you’ll most likely be pulled over by the number of cops situated just outside of the checkpoint. They’ll presume that you’re deliberately avoiding the checkpoint because you are driving under the influence and don’t want to be arrested.
Find Out Where DUI Checkpoints Are Going To Be Held In Your Area
Law enforcement is required to ANNOUNCE that there is a DUI checkpoint scheduled. However, they are not required to disclose the location or time of that DUI checkpoint. If you would like to find out if there are planned DUI checkpoints in your area, you can always call your local law enforcement agency and ask if there is one. There are also a few websites, such as duiblock.com, that will show for some states, the planned checkpoints, the dates/times, and locations of planned DUI checkpoints.
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