Sobriety checkpoints are an effective law enforcement tool involving the stopping of vehicles or a specific sequence of vehicles, at a predetermined fixed location to detect drivers impaired by alcohol and/or other drugs. These operations not only serve as a specific deterrent by arresting impaired drivers who pass through the checkpoints, but more importantly, as a general deterrent to persons who have knowledge of the operation. Sobriety checkpoints increase the perception of the risk of arrest, if they are adequately publicized and highly visible to the public.

Staffing requirements for checkpoints are dependent on many factors, but most importantly the location and traffic volume of the selected site. The traditional sobriety checkpoint is resource intensive for both uniform and support personnel, in order to set up and conduct the operation safely. Resource intensive operations discourage a number of law enforcement agencies from conducting sobriety checkpoints, particularly smaller agencies or others that can ill-afford to dedicate limited staff to such an operation. The end result is that some small agencies are reluctant to use this effective tool. This results in less frequent use of checkpoints, and correspondingly, less exposure and awareness by the public and a reduced perception of risk of arrest for DUI. This may be overcome by partnering with other agencies in the immediate area.

The key to deterring impaired driving is highly visible enforcement. Prevention and not arrest is the goal. The research is clear on the affect highly visible enforcement has on deterring impairing driving. When drivers perceive the risk of being caught is high, their behavior changes immediately. This is the basis of the Drunk Driving - Over the Limit. Under Arrest Crackdown. The message is simple, direct, relevant and it works -- having already influenced thousands of citizens not to drink and drive nationwide. In most cases, reduced staff checkpoints can be as effective as large scale activities in preventing impaired driving if the effort is correctly publicized to increase the perception of being caught.

More Efficient Use Personnel Resources

Increased Visibility and General Deterrence Through Greater Mobility

More Participation By Smaller Agencies

Duties can be shared by all personnel assigned to staff the checkpoint.

Sobriety checkpoints must be staffed by uniformed officers.

Checkpoints should be well publicized to establish a "perception of risk" in the community.

Detection, Investigation Techniques and Training

Chemical Testing Capability

Data Collection and Evaluation