Sobriety checkpoint

Local News

November 21, 2008

Indiana State Police troopers from the Versailles post will conduct a sobriety checkpoint at an undisclosed location in Ripley County Saturday, Nov. 22, according to Sgt. Noel Houze Jr., ISP public information officer.

“Those drivers passing through the checkpoint area should have their licenses and registrations ready to present to troopers and will only be detained briefly while troopers determine whether further investigation is necessary.

“The purpose of sobriety checkpoints is to remove those motorists from the highways who are alcohol or drug impaired and pose a danger to all who use the roadways. Impaired drivers are responsible for billions of dollars in property damage, personal injury and death annually. Every 33 minutes someone in America dies in a crash involving an impaired driver,” Houze points out.

“To help ensure your weekend is safe and enjoyable, observe the following tips:

• Plan ahead and always use a designated driver;

• Don’t get behind the wheel of a vehicle if you’ve been consuming alcoholic beverages. Call a taxi, a family member or a friend who has not been drinking to give you a ride;

• If you are hosting a party, always offer alcohol-free beverages and make sure all your guests leave with a sober driver or allow them to spend the night;

• Remember, friends don’t let friends drive drunk. Take the keys and never let a friend leave your sight if you think that they are about to drive while impaired.”

The trooper stresses, “If you see a vehicle exhibiting erratic driving behavior, call 911 and give a complete description of the vehicle, its location and direction of travel. These reports can be made anonymously.”