DUI Checkpoints in Delaware

County	City	Location	Date
Kent	Smyrna	Delaware State Police, and local law enforcement are partnering to conduct a DUI/DL Checkpoint in the Smyrna area.	Friday, December 27, 2024
Kent	Dover	Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Checkpoint in the Milford Area.	Friday, September 6, 2024
Kent	Dover	Nearby De-10	Saturday night from 10 PM to 2 AM. 5 Aug 2023

DUI Checkpoints in Delaware: A Detailed Overview of Common Locations

Delaware, a small state with a big impact on traffic safety, is proactive in addressing the dangers of impaired driving. DUI checkpoints are a key part of Delaware’s strategy to prevent drunk driving and protect its residents. These checkpoints are often set up in areas with high traffic volume, near popular nightlife spots, and on highways that connect major cities. In this article, we will explore the common DUI checkpoint locations in Delaware and explain why these areas are frequently monitored by law enforcement.

1. Wilmington

As the largest city in Delaware, Wilmington sees a significant amount of traffic daily. The city has a bustling downtown area, bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, which makes it a prime location for DUI checkpoints. Wilmington also connects to major highways and is near the Pennsylvania and New Jersey borders, contributing to a high volume of travelers.

Wilmington:

Route 202 and Naamans Road: This busy intersection connects Wilmington to the surrounding suburban areas and is frequently targeted for DUI enforcement. Officers often set up checkpoints here to monitor drivers, especially during rush hours and weekends when traffic is at its peak.
Interstate 95 and Martin Luther King Boulevard: I-95 runs through Wilmington, making it a major route for commuters and travelers. DUI checkpoints are commonly set up along this highway to catch impaired drivers, particularly during peak traffic times and after major events.
Kirkwood Highway and Limestone Road: A well-traveled route, this intersection sees a lot of local traffic. DUI checkpoints are often set up in this area, especially during weekends when bars and restaurants are active.

2. Dover

As the state capital, Dover is another city in Delaware that regularly conducts DUI checkpoints. With its proximity to popular tourist attractions and the state fairgrounds, as well as its central location within the state, Dover is an ideal place for law enforcement to monitor for impaired drivers.

Dover:

U.S. Route 13 and Wyoming Mill Road: A busy intersection that leads to both residential areas and commercial establishments, DUI checkpoints are frequently set up here. This area experiences high traffic volumes, especially during the evenings and weekends.
Delaware Route 1 and Route 8: As a major north-south route, Route 1 runs through Dover, making it a prime location for DUI checkpoints. Officers often set up checkpoints in this area during times of heavy traffic, particularly around holiday weekends and events at the nearby Dover International Speedway.
North DuPont Highway and Kenton Road: This key intersection is another target for DUI checkpoints, especially on weekends when more people are traveling between Dover and nearby towns. The presence of restaurants, bars, and hotels makes this an area of concern for impaired driving.

3. Rehoboth Beach

Known for its vibrant tourism industry, Rehoboth Beach is a coastal city that attracts visitors year-round. With its busy beaches, boardwalk, and nightlife scene, the area is heavily monitored by law enforcement for impaired driving. DUI checkpoints are regularly set up to ensure public safety during high-traffic periods.

Rehoboth Beach:

Coastal Highway and Rehoboth Avenue: As the main thoroughfare leading to the beach and popular shops, this intersection sees a lot of traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. DUI checkpoints are often set up here to monitor for impaired drivers leaving the bars and restaurants along the route.
Route 1 and Bay Vista Road: Another frequently monitored intersection, particularly during the summer months when Rehoboth Beach is flooded with tourists. DUI enforcement is common in this area, especially on weekends when alcohol consumption is higher.
Route 24 and Warrington Road: Serving as an access point to the beaches and surrounding areas, this intersection is another popular location for DUI checkpoints. Police often target this area to ensure impaired drivers don’t endanger public safety.

4. Newark

Located in northern Delaware, Newark is home to the University of Delaware and a bustling college town atmosphere. With a significant student population and a number of bars and restaurants, Newark is a prime location for DUI checkpoints. Law enforcement is active in this area, especially during weekends and after big events.

Newark:

South College Avenue and Main Street: As a central part of Newark, this intersection is often monitored for DUI enforcement. It’s near popular student bars and is heavily trafficked during university events and weekends, making it a frequent spot for DUI checkpoints.
Interstate 95 and Route 896: I-95 is a major highway that runs through Newark and connects it to both Wilmington and Baltimore. DUI checkpoints along this route are common, particularly during high-traffic periods when out-of-town travelers are passing through.
Delaware Avenue and East Main Street: This busy intersection near the University of Delaware is a hotspot for DUI checkpoints, especially during weekends when students are more likely to be out late. Police regularly monitor this area for impaired drivers.

5. Lewes

A small coastal city with a growing tourism industry, Lewes is another place in Delaware where DUI checkpoints are frequently set up. Located near Rehoboth Beach, this area sees its share of visitors and residents who may be driving under the influence after visiting local attractions.

Lewes:

Route 1 and Savannah Road: A major route to and from Lewes, this intersection is often monitored for impaired driving, especially during tourist season when alcohol consumption is higher.
Route 9 and Kings Highway: This area is commonly monitored by law enforcement, particularly during the summer months when more people are in the area for vacation. DUI checkpoints are set up here to ensure safe driving along the busy road.
Coastal Highway and Church Street: DUI checkpoints are regularly conducted at this location to prevent impaired driving, especially during evenings and weekends when alcohol consumption is more prevalent.

6. Other Notable DUI Checkpoint Locations in Delaware

In addition to the primary locations mentioned above, law enforcement in Delaware conducts DUI checkpoints in various other cities and high-traffic areas. Some of these locations include:

Route 113 near Georgetown: This is a busy highway that runs through Delaware’s rural areas and connects several towns. DUI checkpoints are frequently set up along this route, especially during peak hours and weekends.
U.S. Route 1 near Milford: Another major highway that runs through the state, Route 1 is often targeted for DUI checkpoints in Milford and other towns along the route. This stretch sees a lot of traffic, particularly from travelers heading to the beach.
Delaware Route 40 near Middletown: This key east-west route connects several towns in Delaware, and DUI checkpoints are often set up along it. It is a busy road with heavy traffic, especially during the evening hours when drivers may be coming from local bars or restaurants.

Conclusion

Delaware’s law enforcement agencies are committed to reducing impaired driving and making the roads safer for everyone. DUI checkpoints are a critical part of this effort, especially in high-traffic areas such as Wilmington, Dover, Rehoboth Beach, and Newark. These locations are often chosen due to their heavy traffic volume, proximity to nightlife, and their role as gateways to other parts of the state.

As a driver in Delaware, it’s essential to be aware of these checkpoint locations and to make responsible decisions when it comes to alcohol consumption. If you plan to drink, always designate a sober driver, use a ridesharing service, or take public transportation. Remember, the goal is to keep the roads safe for everyone. Never drink and drive.