Along with the cold weather and the New Year, you can count on there being an increased number of roadblocks in sporadically placed through South Carolina.
Law Enforcement officers target DUI offenders with roadblocks during the end of each month to reach their specified “quota” assigned to them. However, there are several ways to avoid being stopped at a DUI Sobriety checkpoint or roadblock. A few of the more sensible tips are included below.
1. Avoid Obvious Sobriety Checkpoint Locations
DUI Enforcement Police Officers are most likely going to set up their checkpoints where they think they can catch the most offenders. You should realize that federal law does not allow roadblocks on interstate highways so getting to the interstate to avoid a roadblock is common strategy used to avoid being stopped. Keep in mind that police are permitted to set up their checkpoints along main highways or roads that lead to interstate highways so this tactic is not fool proof.
2. If possible, avoid late night locations where there are a lot of bars and restaurants.
These areas generate a lot of police patrol due to the high volume of people and the large amount of people in the area consuming alcohol. It makes sense that police officers want to set up in areas near bars and restaurants that stay open later than all the other establishments because it is a target rich environment.
3. Be aware that police officers sometimes will have “chase” cars stationed at each roadblock location to stop any drivers who turn around from a checkpoint.
These cars will usually be placed in strategic locations so officers can target drivers who blatantly try to turn around or erratically avoid the checkpoint. Unfortunately, police officers often times assume that any driver who turns before a checkpoint is automatically trying to avoid the checkpoint because they’ve been drinking.
4. And, of course, the very best way to avoid being arrested at a DUI sobriety checkpoint is simple: Don’t drink and drive.
This tactic seems obvious but it is honestly the only guaranteed method to avoid any repercussions from a DUI Checkpoint. At the end of the day, it is a much smarter decision to take a taxi or get a ride from a designated driver.
If you have been arrested for a DUI because of a DUI Checkpoint or DUI Roadblock it is critical that you hire an attorney with experience fighting these types of cases. The consequences of a DUI conviction are greater than they ever have been before. So make sure you have an attorney who is aggressive in representing you.
If you have been charged with a DUI or have been arrested at a DUI checkpoint, contact the attorneys at Reeves, Aiken & Hightower, LLP. Contact us toll-free at 877-374-5999 or contact us at this link for a private consultation.