DUI Checkpoints in Inyo County, CA

Inyo County, located in Eastern California, is known for its vast deserts, mountain ranges, and popular destinations like Bishop and Independence. Major highways such as US Highway 395 and State Route 136 run through the county, serving as main routes for locals and visitors heading to outdoor recreation spots. Despite its low population, Inyo County still faces challenges with impaired driving, especially during weekends, holidays, and tourist seasons.

In 2024, Inyo County reported around 70 DUI-related crashes, resulting in 1 fatality and several injuries. To improve road safety, local law enforcement has increased DUI checkpoints and patrols, targeting times and locations with higher DUI risks.

If you’re searching for DUI checkpoints near me, roadblocks tonight, or police checkpoints in Inyo County, here are the key locations to be aware of.

Bishop DUI Checkpoints

Main Street near North Fowler Street

Location: Downtown Bishop, close to restaurants, bars, and shopping areas.
Agency: Bishop Police Department
Details: This checkpoint is commonly set up on Friday and Saturday nights, typically operating between 6 PM and midnight. Officers stop vehicles to check for signs of alcohol or drug impairment and verify driver documentation.

US Highway 395 at East Line Street

Location: A main entry point into Bishop from the south, near residential neighborhoods and businesses.
Agency: California Highway Patrol (CHP)
Details: Checkpoints here are frequent during holiday weekends and special enforcement campaigns, running from 7 PM to 2 AM. This location helps catch impaired drivers before they enter the city.

Independence DUI Checkpoints

Center Street near Market Street

Location: Central Independence, near government offices and community centers.
Agency: Inyo County Sheriff’s Office
Details: DUI checkpoints here usually occur during holidays and community events, typically from 6 PM to 11 PM. Law enforcement focuses on preventing DUI crashes during peak social hours.

Other Key DUI Checkpoint Locations in Inyo County

  • Big Pine – Route 168 & South Main Street
    Agency: Inyo County Sheriff’s Office
    Time: 6 PM to midnight on weekends and holidays

  • Lone Pine – Whitney Portal Road & South Main Street
    Agency: Inyo County Sheriff’s Office
    Time: 7 PM to midnight during busy tourist seasons

  • Tecopa – Tecopa Hot Springs Road & County Road
    Agency: California Highway Patrol
    Time: 6 PM to 1 AM, mostly on weekends

How DUI Checkpoints Work in Inyo County

Law enforcement agencies in Inyo County set up DUI checkpoints in safe, well-lit locations with clear signage and traffic cones to guide drivers. Officers stop every few vehicles to observe for signs of intoxication, including impaired speech, the smell of alcohol, and erratic driving behavior.

Checkpoints are typically scheduled on weekends, holidays, and during local events or tourist peak times when alcohol consumption tends to rise.

Why DUI Checkpoints Matter in Inyo County

DUI checkpoints are essential for preventing impaired driving crashes and protecting lives in Inyo County. With long stretches of rural highways and limited emergency services, driving under the influence can have especially serious consequences.

If you’re searching for police checkpoints near me or roadblocks in Inyo County, the locations listed above are the most active and reliable.

Always plan to drive sober. Use a designated driver or rideshare service to keep yourself and others safe on Inyo County roads.