On a night out, you may have overheard other people discussing about a sobriety checkpoint nearby, or maybe you read something about the controversy with smart phone companies having apps that list DUI checkpoints.

But, what exactly is a DUI checkpoint? Are you bound to get in trouble if you drive up to one?

A DUI checkpoint or a sobriety checkpoint is a roadblock on a public roadway where police are stationed to monitor for drunk drivers. Additionally, the police are on the lookout for any drivers driving without a license or with a suspended license.

As you approach a sobriety checkpoint, the police officer will signal for you to stop. Some checkpoints stop every car that passes by while ones in heavily trafficked areas may stop every other car.

The officer will ask you to roll down your window and ask to see your license, proof of insurance, and registration. They may ask you a series of questions such as where you came from or where you are headed. While they do this, they are going to be looking for signs of intoxication, such as blurred speech, the smell of alcohol, or if your eyes are bloodshot.

If the officer has no reason to conclude that you have been drinking, he or she will send you on your way. However, if the cop has a suspicion that you are intoxicated they may ask you to take a breathalyzer or perform a field sobriety test.

Police departments are required by law to announce that they will be having a sobriety checkpoint. They’re usually announced very discreetly and specific information such as the exact address may be undisclosed. However, it is easy to assume that a checkpoint will likely take place in an area of your town where people are prone to drink and drive.

When we list sobriety checkpoints, you may notice that the police tend to set up checkpoints near the same popular hotspots every week. That’s because DUIs tend to happen in the same locations all the time. You may think that the cops came out of nowhere and pulled you over. However chances are you were probably driving or parked in one of these places.

1. The Obvious One – Bars

Yes, a lot of DUI arrests occur within the vicinity of bars and especially near a cluster of bars. (Think touristy areas in cities.)

2. No Parking Zones

Many times a police officer will see a car parked on the side of the road or on a lot that is closed to public parking. Even if you’re sitting in the car, the officer is allowed to infer that you’ve been drinking and driving if they detect alcohol.

3. One-Way Streets

There have been so many DUI arrests made due to a person going down a one-way street. I understand its appeal. It is a faster route and maybe the police won’t be around this time. So many people take this risk and end up getting pulled over. However, they also end up in way more trouble than they think if they’ve been drinking. Don’t take shortcuts.

4. Drive-Thrus

I’ve read plenty of news stories where a drunk driver pulls up to a drive-thru and passes out while ordering a combo meal. Not a good move.

5. Highways

Highways have their own patrol unit which makes it more likely for you to get pulled over. They also have tollbooth workers, plus more drivers on the road, which means that more people are likely to notify the police of erratic driving.

Are there any other places you think police are likely to suspect a drunk driver? List them below or share on our Facebook page!