DUI Checkpoints in Arizona

County	City	Location	Date
Maricopa	Mesa	Dui Saturation Patrols and A Sobriety Checkpoint	Memorial Day Weekend
Maricopa	Mesa	Power Road - Area North Of Thomas Road	1pm To 6pm - Mon May 30 - Memorial Day, 2022

DUI Checkpoints in Arizona: A Detailed Guide to Common Locations

Arizona is known for its scenic desert highways, bustling cities like Phoenix and Tucson, and outdoor attractions that draw many visitors. However, like other states, Arizona has an active DUI enforcement program to curb impaired driving. DUI checkpoints are frequently set up in high-traffic areas, near popular tourist destinations, and around busy nightlife districts. The state’s law enforcement officers are dedicated to promoting road safety and preventing accidents caused by impaired drivers.

This article delves into some of the most common DUI checkpoint locations across Arizona, detailing where law enforcement typically sets up sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols. Understanding where these checkpoints are located can help you stay safe and avoid legal consequences while driving through Arizona.

1. Phoenix

Phoenix, the state capital, is home to a large population, heavy traffic, and a vibrant nightlife scene, which makes it a prime location for DUI checkpoints. Law enforcement regularly conducts sobriety checkpoints in areas with high concentrations of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Phoenix:

Central Avenue and Camelback Road: This intersection is located in one of Phoenix’s busiest neighborhoods, near shopping centers, restaurants, and bars. DUI checkpoints are often set up here late in the evening or early morning when people are leaving bars and restaurants.
7th Avenue and McKinley Street: Located near downtown Phoenix, this intersection is a hotspot for DUI enforcement. The area is close to bars, nightclubs, and concert venues, making it a prime location for sobriety checkpoints, especially on weekends.
Interstate 10 and 7th Street: This major intersection connects Phoenix to other areas of the city and surrounding regions. DUI checkpoints are frequently set up here during peak hours, especially during holidays or major events that increase traffic and the potential for impaired driving.
East Thomas Road and North 40th Street: Another busy area in Phoenix, near commercial and residential areas. DUI checkpoints are often held here in the evenings, especially on weekends when traffic is heavier and alcohol consumption increases.

2. Tucson

Tucson, Arizona’s second-largest city, has a bustling downtown area, a vibrant college scene, and several popular bars and clubs. DUI checkpoints are commonly set up in high-traffic areas or near popular student hangouts to prevent impaired driving.

Tucson:

Broadway Boulevard and Wilmot Road: Located near shopping centers and restaurants, this intersection sees regular DUI checkpoints, particularly during the evenings and weekends, when alcohol consumption is higher.
Interstate 10 and 22nd Street: As a major highway through Tucson, I-10 is frequently patrolled by DUI enforcement officers. DUI checkpoints are often set up along this corridor, particularly during peak travel times or after large events.
North Stone Avenue and East Grant Road: This intersection is close to Tucson’s nightlife and is often the site of DUI checkpoints. Officers target this area to catch impaired drivers leaving bars or restaurants in the late hours of the evening.

3. Flagstaff

Flagstaff, located in northern Arizona, is known for its proximity to the Grand Canyon and its popular outdoor activities. DUI checkpoints in Flagstaff are often set up near highways, especially during the tourist season, to prevent impaired driving and ensure safety on the roads.

Flagstaff:

Route 66 and Milton Road: Flagstaff’s historic Route 66 is a major thoroughfare, attracting tourists and locals alike. DUI checkpoints are often set up in this area, particularly on weekends when traffic is heavy, and travelers are more likely to be impaired.
Interstate 40 and Country Club Drive: As a key intersection in Flagstaff, DUI checkpoints are commonly set up here to catch impaired drivers, especially during the busy tourist season or holidays when more drivers are on the road.

4. Scottsdale

Scottsdale, a popular resort town and a part of the Phoenix metropolitan area, attracts many tourists and residents who visit its high-end restaurants, bars, and nightlife venues. DUI checkpoints are frequently set up in areas with high concentrations of nightlife.

Scottsdale:

North Scottsdale Road and East Shea Boulevard: This busy intersection near shopping malls and restaurants sees regular DUI checkpoints, particularly during the evenings when people are leaving bars or dining establishments.
East Camelback Road and North 64th Street: This area is home to upscale restaurants, resorts, and shopping centers. DUI enforcement is common here, especially on weekends or holidays when many people are out enjoying the city’s entertainment scene.

5. Mesa

Mesa, part of the Phoenix metro area, is another city that experiences frequent DUI enforcement. Law enforcement regularly sets up DUI checkpoints in high-traffic areas near restaurants, bars, and shopping centers.

Mesa:

Main Street and Alma School Road: This busy intersection, located near restaurants, shops, and residential areas, is a common location for DUI checkpoints in Mesa. Officers monitor this area during peak hours, especially on weekends when traffic is heavy.
U.S. Route 60 and Power Road: A major highway in Mesa, this route sees frequent DUI checkpoints, particularly during holidays or peak travel times when the risk of impaired driving is elevated.

6. Yuma

Yuma, located in southwestern Arizona near the California and Mexico borders, sees DUI enforcement due to the high volume of cross-border traffic and its proximity to popular tourist spots. DUI checkpoints are often set up to catch impaired drivers.

Yuma:

Interstate 8 and Avenue 3E: As a key route through Yuma, Interstate 8 is a frequent location for DUI checkpoints. Officers set up checkpoints along this highway to catch impaired drivers traveling between Arizona and California.
South 4th Avenue and 16th Street: This intersection is near several local businesses and residential areas, making it a prime location for DUI enforcement, particularly during late-night hours.

7. Other Common DUI Checkpoint Locations in Arizona

In addition to the cities listed above, there are numerous other locations across the state where DUI checkpoints are commonly set up. These include smaller towns, rural highways, and major roads that connect different regions of Arizona.

Interstate 17:

Interstate 17 Near New River: DUI checkpoints are commonly set up along I-17, especially in areas like New River, which sees heavy traffic during holidays and weekends. This route connects Phoenix to northern Arizona, making it a prime location for DUI enforcement.

U.S. Route 89:

U.S. Route 89 Near Prescott: U.S. Route 89 runs through northern Arizona and is a common location for DUI checkpoints, particularly during weekends or after large events in Prescott or Flagstaff.

Conclusion

Arizona is dedicated to reducing impaired driving through proactive DUI enforcement. From the urban centers of Phoenix and Tucson to rural stretches like U.S. Route 66 and Interstate 40, DUI checkpoints are regularly set up to prevent impaired driving and protect public safety. If you’re driving in Arizona, especially during busy weekends, holidays, or after attending events, stay aware of DUI checkpoints, plan ahead, and always designate a sober driver. Impaired driving is dangerous for everyone on the road, and avoiding it can help you avoid severe legal and financial consequences.

Stay safe, and remember: Don’t drink and drive.