DUI Checkpoints in Maine
| County | City | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
Driving under the influence is a serious offense in the state of Maine, and law enforcement agencies are actively working to reduce impaired driving through regular DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols. These operations are often conducted by local police departments, county sheriff’s offices, and the Maine State Police, especially during holidays and weekends when alcohol consumption is more prevalent. Below are key areas across the state where DUI checkpoints are commonly conducted:
1. Interstate 95 (I-95) – Bangor to Augusta
The stretch of I-95 from Bangor to Augusta is a critical route heavily patrolled by the Maine State Police Troop E and Troop C. This highway is often used by commuters and travelers alike, making it a strategic location for DUI checkpoints. Troopers target this area particularly on weekends and during major holiday travel periods to deter impaired driving.
2. U.S. Route 1 – Portland to Brunswick
This coastal highway sees high traffic volumes, especially during the summer months. The Portland Police Department and Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office frequently operate sobriety checkpoints in this corridor, focusing on the nightlife areas near downtown Portland and along the scenic coastal towns like Freeport and Brunswick.
3. Route 302 – Windham to Naples
Route 302, known for its recreational traffic toward the lakes region, is a hotspot for DUI enforcement. The Windham Police Department often partners with the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety to conduct mobile DUI checkpoints and roadside sobriety testing stations near Raymond and Bridgton, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.
4. Route 202 – Lewiston to Augusta
This corridor connects two of Maine’s larger cities and is frequently targeted by the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office and the Lewiston Police Department for DUI enforcement. Sobriety checkpoints are often set up near Winthrop and Monmouth, especially during sports and community events when alcohol consumption is more common.
5. Route 11 – Southern Aroostook County
Northern Maine, particularly along Route 11, sees increased enforcement by the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office and Maine State Police Troop F. This rural highway is used by long-distance travelers and local residents heading to small towns. Checkpoints are often conducted during harvest festivals or local events.
6. Route 27 – Farmington to Eustis
A popular road for skiers and outdoor enthusiasts, Route 27 is heavily patrolled by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office during ski season. DUI checkpoints are often placed near Carrabassett Valley and Stratton, targeting visitors heading to Sugarloaf Mountain.
7. Route 1A – Brewer to Ellsworth
This secondary coastal route serves as an alternative to U.S. Route 1 and is known for its winding curves and traffic to Acadia National Park. The Brewer Police Department and Hancock County Sheriff’s Office operate frequent sobriety stops in this corridor to intercept impaired drivers before they reach congested areas near Bar Harbor.
8. Route 9 – Known as “The Airline”
Route 9, a key rural corridor connecting Bangor to the New Brunswick border, is closely monitored by the Maine State Police. This long, remote route has few services, making DUI stops crucial to preventing dangerous incidents. Law enforcement places mobile checkpoints near towns like Aurora and Beddington.
9. Downtown Portland Entertainment District
The downtown area around Congress Street and Commercial Street is the hub of nightlife in Maine. The Portland Police Department often sets up sobriety checkpoints at major exit points of the downtown area, especially around closing hours of bars and clubs.
10. Old Orchard Beach
As a major summer tourist destination, Old Orchard Beach becomes a focal point for DUI enforcement from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Old Orchard Beach Police Department, with support from the York County Sheriff’s Office, operates both fixed and roving DUI checkpoints around West Grand Avenue and Saco Avenue to monitor beachgoers leaving local bars and events.