If you’re heading out this Friday night, September 19, 2025, be aware that multiple DUI and OVI checkpoints are scheduled across California and Ohio. Local law enforcement agencies will be setting up sobriety and driver’s license checkpoints to discourage drunk driving, remove impaired drivers from the road, and remind everyone to drive responsibly.
These checkpoints are not just about catching people breaking the law—they’re about preventing accidents, injuries, and fatalities. A single poor choice behind the wheel can change your life forever. That’s why police departments announce these operations ahead of time, giving drivers the chance to plan safe rides home.
Let’s break down exactly where and when checkpoints will be happening.
DUI Checkpoints in California
California has some of the most active checkpoint operations in the country, especially in areas with busy nightlife. Here are the confirmed spots for Friday, September 19:
Santa Barbara County
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Isla Vista (Unincorporated Area)
Police will conduct a sobriety and driver’s license checkpoint near Isla Vista. This is a popular college community near UC Santa Barbara, which means lots of foot traffic, nightlife, and potential risk for impaired driving.
Time: 6 PM to 2 AM
Los Angeles County
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Los Angeles – Florence Boulevard and Main Street
One of the busiest areas in South LA will see a checkpoint in place. Officers will be watching closely for impaired drivers, as well as verifying valid driver’s licenses.
Time: 6 PM to 11 PM -
Los Angeles – La Brea Avenue and Oakwood Avenue
Another checkpoint is scheduled for the heart of Los Angeles. Expect traffic delays in the area as officers stop vehicles to ensure everyone on the road is driving safely.
Time: 6 PM to 11 PM
San Mateo County (Redwood City Area)
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Redwood – Woodside Road near Bay Road
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Redwood – El Camino Real near Carlos Avenue
While no specific times have been released for Redwood City’s checkpoints, drivers in these areas should expect evening operations and prepare for possible delays.
OVI Checkpoints in Ohio
Ohio refers to DUI checkpoints as OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) checkpoints. These operations are strategically placed in high-traffic areas and near entertainment districts. Here’s where they’ll be on Friday, September 19:
Cuyahoga County
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Solon – Harper Road
Officers will be set up in the vicinity of Harper Road. Drivers moving through Solon should expect sobriety checks during the evening.
Sandusky County
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Fremont – Rawson Avenue (between North Street and the US 6 Fremont Bypass)
A short two-hour checkpoint is planned here. Fremont drivers should expect increased enforcement.
Time: 8 PM to 10 PM
Butler County
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Oxford – S. Locust Street (500 Block)
This checkpoint is right in the City of Oxford, home to Miami University, where nightlife activity is high. Officers will be monitoring closely for college-aged drivers under the influence.
Time: 7 PM to 10 PM
Hamilton County
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Mariemont – 6900 Block of Wooster Pike (US-50)
Located in the east side of Cincinnati, this checkpoint will slow down drivers traveling through Mariemont.
Time: 8 PM to 10 PM
Hocking County
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Logan – West Hunter Street (between Betty and Riff Avenues)
Logan residents can expect a late-night checkpoint in a busy stretch of town.
Time: 6 PM to 11 PM
Why DUI and OVI Checkpoints Matter
Police checkpoints often spark debate, but the reality is they save lives. Here’s why they’re so important:
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Deterrence: Just the knowledge that checkpoints are happening reduces the likelihood of people drinking and driving.
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Enforcement: Impaired drivers who do take the risk are taken off the road before they can cause harm.
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Awareness: Drivers are reminded that alcohol, drugs, and even prescription medication can impair driving ability.
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Education: Many checkpoints also involve handing out educational material about DUI consequences.
What Happens at a DUI Checkpoint?
If you come across a checkpoint, here’s what you can expect:
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Traffic Stop: Officers will direct some or all cars into a screening lane.
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Initial Contact: Police may ask for your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
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Observation: Officers will look for signs of impairment, such as slurred speech, smell of alcohol, or bloodshot eyes.
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Field Sobriety Test: If they suspect impairment, you may be asked to perform a sobriety test.
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Breathalyzer or Arrest: If impairment is confirmed, further testing or arrest may follow.
The process is usually quick for sober drivers, often lasting only a couple of minutes.
Stay Safe and Avoid a DUI
The cost of a DUI goes beyond fines and legal trouble. It can affect your job, your reputation, and even your ability to travel. In some states, a single DUI conviction can cost $10,000 or more once you add up fines, fees, and insurance hikes.
Here’s how to avoid becoming another statistic:
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Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll be drinking, arrange for a designated driver or rideshare.
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Use Public Transit: Buses, trains, and taxis are cheaper than a DUI.
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Stay Overnight: If you’re far from home, book a hotel or crash at a friend’s place.
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Know Your Limits: Even “a couple drinks” can put you over the legal limit.
Final Thoughts
On Friday, September 19, 2025, checkpoints will be active in California and Ohio throughout the evening. If you’re planning a night out, don’t take chances. These operations are meant to protect you and everyone else on the road.
Bottom line: A safe ride home is always the smarter and cheaper option.
