DUI Checkpoints in Missouri

CountyCityLocationDate
Saint Louis CitySaint LouisState Rte 30 and Delores Dr - Area In Murphy, Mo4 July 2024
JacksonKansas CityMain St and 41st St Area4 July 2023 Independence Day
Saint Louis CitySaint LouisForest Park AreaSat May 28, 2022

 

Missouri is a state with a rich blend of rural landscapes, vibrant cities, and bustling roadways. While known for its hospitality and heritage, Missouri also faces the ongoing challenge of reducing impaired driving across its road network. To combat this, law enforcement agencies routinely conduct DUI checkpoints across the state—especially in high-risk areas where impaired driving incidents tend to occur most frequently.

This article explores the most common DUI checkpoint locations in Missouri, diving into specific roads, intersections, and regions that are frequently targeted due to traffic volume, nightlife activity, or historical accident data.

Why Missouri Law Enforcement Uses DUI Checkpoints

Missouri’s DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws are strictly enforced. DUI checkpoints (also known as sobriety checkpoints) serve as proactive measures to catch and deter impaired drivers before accidents happen. These operations are often announced in advance to stay compliant with constitutional standards and ensure transparency, although the exact locations and times are not always disclosed.

Let’s break down the areas where you are most likely to encounter a DUI checkpoint in Missouri:

Kansas City (Jackson County)

As one of the largest and most populous cities in Missouri, Kansas City sees a large number of DUI checkpoints every year. The combination of sports venues, downtown entertainment, and suburban nightlife makes it a hotspot for enforcement.

Common DUI Checkpoint Areas:

  • Interstate 70 & The Paseo: A major junction near downtown that connects travelers from multiple directions. DUI stops often happen here during weekends and holidays.

  • Ward Parkway near Brookside Boulevard: Close to the Country Club Plaza, this area is known for its nightlife and restaurants. Checkpoints are common here after midnight.

  • Troost Avenue & 63rd Street: With proximity to residential and commercial areas, this corridor is often targeted late at night on weekends.

St. Louis (St. Louis City & County)

St. Louis is another major DUI enforcement hub, particularly due to its dense urban environment and many bars, clubs, and sporting events.

Common DUI Checkpoint Areas:

  • South Broadway near Anheuser-Busch Brewery: A popular location due to brewery tours and bar activity.

  • Lindell Boulevard & Grand Avenue: Near Saint Louis University, this area sees frequent enforcement, especially during college weekends and sporting events.

  • Interstate 55 & Arsenal Street: A major access point for both local and commuter traffic; often the site of surprise checkpoints.

Columbia (Boone County)

As home to the University of Missouri, Columbia has a large college-aged population, making it a common location for alcohol-related incidents. Law enforcement agencies are highly active here, particularly during the academic year.

Common DUI Checkpoint Areas:

  • Providence Road & Stadium Boulevard: Major traffic artery near the university and commercial areas.

  • Broadway Street near Downtown: Especially active on Friday and Saturday nights, when bars are full.

  • Interstate 70 & Highway 63 Interchange: A hotspot for late-night travelers coming in and out of Columbia.

Springfield (Greene County)

With a thriving university, nightlife, and shopping centers, Springfield is one of Missouri’s top areas for DUI patrols and sobriety checkpoints.

Common DUI Checkpoint Areas:

  • Glenstone Avenue & Sunshine Street: A heavily trafficked commercial area known for its nightlife.

  • Campbell Avenue & Battlefield Road: Close to restaurants, shopping centers, and bars.

  • Downtown Springfield near Walnut Street: With a dense bar district, DUI saturation patrols and checkpoints are frequent here on weekends.

Jefferson City (Cole County)

As Missouri’s state capital, Jefferson City has a mix of government activity and local nightlife. While not as populous as KC or STL, checkpoints are often set up along major state routes.

Common DUI Checkpoint Areas:

  • Missouri Boulevard & West Stadium Boulevard: A busy intersection near the retail district.

  • Highway 54 & Ellis Boulevard: This interchange is regularly used by commuters, especially during late-night hours.

  • Downtown area near High Street: Popular during events and festivals.

Branson (Taney County)

Branson, known for tourism and family entertainment, also has a surprisingly active nightlife. Law enforcement often targets major routes in and out of town to deter vacationers from driving impaired.

Common DUI Checkpoint Areas:

  • Highway 76 (The Strip): The main entertainment corridor in Branson, full of shows, bars, and attractions.

  • Shepherd of the Hills Expressway: A common area for checkpoints as it connects different tourist zones.

  • Highway 65 Interchange near Hollister: Often used to stop drivers heading north toward Springfield or south to Arkansas.

Other Frequent DUI Checkpoint Areas in Missouri:

1. Lake of the Ozarks Region

  • Known for boating, bars, and lake parties—DUI checkpoints here are common during the summer months, especially near Highway 54 and Route KK.

2. Blue Springs & Independence (Eastern Jackson County)

  • DUI stops often occur along U.S. Route 40 and Highway 7, especially near popular late-night establishments.

3. O’Fallon, Wentzville & St. Charles (St. Charles County)

  • These growing suburban areas experience checkpoints along Highway K, I-70, and Route 94. Proximity to bars and commuter roads makes this region a major focus of enforcement.

4. Cape Girardeau (Southeast Missouri)

  • Located along the Mississippi River and home to a college campus, checkpoints are common on Kingshighway and Broadway Street, especially during college weekends and holidays.

What to Expect at a DUI Checkpoint in Missouri

At a typical DUI checkpoint in Missouri, you may be asked to:

  • Provide your license, registration, and insurance

  • Answer basic questions (e.g., “Have you been drinking?”)

  • Perform a field sobriety test if there’s suspicion

  • Submit to a breathalyzer test if requested

Your Rights:

  • You have the right to remain silent beyond identifying yourself.

  • You do not have to consent to a search of your vehicle.

  • You can refuse a breathalyzer, but it may lead to automatic license suspension under Missouri’s implied consent law.

Don’t Drink and Drive in Missouri

DUI checkpoints are strategically placed throughout Missouri to keep roads safe. If you’re planning to drink, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi service. DUI arrests in Missouri can lead to jail time, license suspension, heavy fines, and a criminal record—not to mention putting lives at risk.

Make the responsible choice. Stay safe. Don’t drink and drive.