DUI Checkpoints: What You Need to Know this Holiday Season

Getting arrested over the holidays is not ideal. In fact, it’s the last thing you want to do as your family all gets together to celebrate the season. Unfortunately, it’s especially common to get arrested over the holidays, because more people are drinking and driving than normal. Because of this, the police often set up DUI checkpoints to keep the public safe. Here’s everything you need to know about DUI checkpoints this holiday season.

What is the Purpose of DUI Checkpoints?

DUI checkpoints are blockades that the police set up along busy highways and intersections. They park their vehicles, with the lights flashing, on either side of the road, and flag down vehicles. Once they stop, the police officers speak to the drivers with the purpose of checking for signs of intoxication. The purpose of this routine is to catch drivers who are driving under the influence, to protect the public. These checkpoints are set up more often during the holidays, when people are more likely to be drinking and then driving home. Not all states allow DUI checkpoints, so if you’re traveling to another area, it’s important to know the law in that area.

More about DUI Checkpoints in Delaware

In Delaware, during a sobriety checkpoint, the police will briefly stop each car and speak with the driver of each vehicle. If a police officer suspects that a driver is intoxicated, they will be asked to complete a sobriety test. While the Constitution requires that officers have probable cause to stop drivers, the Supreme Court has ruled that the danger to the public from drunk driving outweighs the intrusion of privacy. Therefore, the police must publicize checkpoints before they are set up. If you are stopped at a checkpoint, charged with DUI, and arrested, 1^st Choice Bail Bonds is here to help. Making bail over this season is important, as being home with your family for the holidays is important. Give us a call and we’ll help you get out of jail and back home quickly!