This holiday season, be prepared for an increase in DUI checkpoints at night. As much of an annoyance as you may think they are, they are set up to ensure a safe and fun evening for all.
DUI checkpoints may or may not be announced ahead of time, and they are not set up in the same locations each night. For those who have not experienced driving through a checkpoint, here is what to expect:
- An officer will motion you to slow down and drive over to the side of the road. Do not worry, they do this for all cars they choose. It does not mean you are in trouble.
- In some cases they will just want you to slow down and then you can drive off. In other cases, you will be asked to stop the car and roll down your window.
- They will ask questions like where you are going, where you are coming from, and if you have been drinking. They may ask to see your license and registration as well.
- If you are cleared, you can drive on. If you are determined not safe or coherent enough to continue driving, you may have to wait at the checkpoint for a while, or you may be taken to a drunk tank.
That is it. DUI checkpoints are nothing to be afraid of, and they can prevent a lot of people from driving drunk, which in turn keeps the roads safer for everyone.