Sobriety Checkpoints Among the DUI Prevention Tools TN Uses

It can’t be overstated how important it is to discourage drivers from engaging in the extremely dangerous conduct of driving while drunk. The human cost of drunk driving is remarkably high; drunk driving accidents have killed or injured many here in Tennessee and the rest of America.

Among the things that can sometimes help discourage drunk driving are strong laws against drunk driving and effective enforcement of such laws. There are a wide range of different DUI enforcement methods.

One such enforcement method are sobriety checkpoints. This is when police set up a checkpoint somewhere along the roads and, at this checkpoint, check to see if any of the drivers going through the checkpoint are exhibiting signs of impairment or intoxication.

Now, not all states have sobriety checkpoints as part of their DUI enforcement strategy. Around three-fourths of states (38 states) use checkpoints while around one-fourth (12 states) do not.

Tennessee is one of the states that uses sobriety checkpoints. The estimated frequency of sobriety checkpoints in Tennessee is once or twice a month.

What do you think of sobriety checkpoints? Do such checkpoints help in preventing drunk driving? Are you glad that Tennessee uses such checkpoints? Should such checkpoints be used more often here? What are the best enforcement tactics for discouraging drunk driving?

Sadly, there are drivers out there who disregard the law and the safety of others by taking to the wheel of their car when they are drunk. DUI accident attorneys can help those hurt by a drunk driver determine what sort of legal claims they may be able to bring in response to the harm done to them by the drunk driver’s misconduct.

Source: Governors Highway Safety Association, “Sobriety Checkpoint Laws,” January 2015

Brack Terry

Attorney F. Braxton “Brack” Terry has the legal skill, integrity, and trial experience to offer a high level of professional services to all of our East Tennessee clients. He strongly believes in the importance of strengthening and preserving civil advocacy throughout Tennessee’s legal community.