Personal Injury Lawyers Georgetown, Delaware
(302) 854-5400
Free Case Consultation (302) 854-5400

Delaware Revives DUI Checkpoints to Curb Impaired Driving

A police checkpoint at night with officers checking for drunk drivers. Background of a busy road and flashing lights.

Despite improvements in vehicle safety and numerous public awareness campaigns, traffic fatalities remain a persistent issue in Delaware. In 2022, the state recorded 165 deaths on the roads, tying a 34-year-old record for fatalities. Last year, the number dropped to 137, and this year's figure stands at 87 so far, putting the state on track for 125 deaths in 2024. Even with this downward trend, more than one person dies every three days in Delaware car accidents.

How are traffic fatalities trending in Delaware?

Delaware has seen some progress in reducing traffic deaths since the record-setting 2022 figures. The decline to 137 fatalities in 2023 offers a glimmer of hope, and the state is currently on pace for about 125 deaths in 2024. However, officials remain concerned, as even one life lost is too many. The state's small size doesn't make it immune to the dangers posed by reckless or impaired drivers. With the rate of fatalities still alarmingly high, authorities are stepping up their actions to prevent more lives from being cut short.

What is the impact of impaired driving on traffic deaths?

Over the past five years, at least 30 traffic deaths annually have involved alcohol-impaired drivers. Impaired driving is a leading factor in fatal crashes. It affects not just those who choose to drive under the influence but also innocent drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Plus, the impaired driving risks extend beyond alcohol. Opioid use has also contributed to many car accidents.

How is Delaware addressing impaired driving?

To combat impaired driving, state and local law enforcement have reintroduced DUI checkpoints—commonly known as roadblocks—for the first time in five years. The previous checkpoint occurred in late 2019, and the practice was paused due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. The first renewed checkpoint occurred on Sept. 6 in the Milford area, where officers stopped 340 vehicles from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. The operation resulted in four DUI arrests, one drug-related arrest, and several traffic citations. These efforts aim to remind drivers that impaired driving won't be tolerated and to remove those under the influence from the roads.

What do safety advocates and officials say?

Safety advocates and officials support the use of DUI checkpoints to prevent tragedies. Meghan Niddrie from the Delaware Office of Highway Safety calls checkpoints "very effective countermeasures" that help get impaired drivers off the road. "You could be the one doing everything right, and an impaired driver swerves into your lane. You're putting everyone's life at risk on the road," said Niddrie.

According to Jana Tidwell of AAA, who also supports the use of checkpoints, impaired driving crashes are completely preventable. "It shouldn't happen because there are so many alternatives out there, especially in this day and age where we should not see people getting behind the wheel and driving after consuming alcohol," she said.

What are lawmakers doing to enhance road safety?

Delaware legislators are taking steps to make roadways safer by addressing other risk factors, such as speeding and distracted driving. Recent laws include making speeds over 90 mph a reckless driving offense and launching a five-year trial for speed cameras in work zones and residential areas. Another law requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching any vehicle pulled over with its warning lights on. State Rep. Ed Osienski supports these measures and the return of DUI checkpoints, which he claims serve as an important reminder of the dangers of drunk driving.

Why are DUI checkpoints considered effective?

DUI checkpoints are viewed as a "five-star" enforcement tool by federal transportation authorities. They serve as a deterrent to impaired driving by increasing the likelihood of encountering law enforcement on the road. While authorities publicize the existence of checkpoints in advance, the exact locations and times remain undisclosed, which could enhance their effectiveness.

Get a car accident lawyer who can help you demand justice

If you were hurt in a drunk driving accident in Delaware, don't settle for anything less than justice. The attorneys at Gill, Welsh, and Chamberlain, P.A. bring over 80 years of combined experience to fight for your rights. We know the tactics drunk drivers and insurance companies use to avoid responsibility, and we're prepared to challenge them at every turn. From investigating your crash to negotiating with the insurance company, we will work tirelessly to build a strong case and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.

Our legal team is committed to standing by your side from start to finish. We ensure you understand your legal options and advocate for the justice and full compensation you deserve. To get started on your claim, contact us today for a free consultation and let us demand the compensation you're entitled to.

Email Us
Free Case
Consultation

    *Free consultations are only available for personal injury cases.