DUI Checkpoints in Nebraska
| County | City | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lancaster | Lincoln | Police did not specify where the checkpoint will be | Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024 between 7 p.m. and midnight. |
Nebraska’s relatively open roads and the ease of long-distance travel across its plains do not mean that law enforcement overlooks impaired driving. The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) and local law enforcement agencies regularly establish DUI checkpoints, aiming to reduce alcohol-related accidents and fatalities. These checkpoints help deter impaired driving, increase road safety, and educate drivers on their legal rights.
Below is a breakdown of the most common DUI checkpoint locations across Nebraska, along with their enforcement agencies and why these areas are targeted:
1. Lincoln (Downtown and Surrounding Areas)
Enforcing Agencies: Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
Downtown Lincoln and the surrounding neighborhoods, especially around O Street, 27th Street, and the intersections near the University of Nebraska, are frequent locations for DUI checkpoints. Given the high volume of students, nightlife, and significant traffic, law enforcement focuses on these areas during weekends, game days, and holidays. The city’s dense nightlife makes it a priority for DUI enforcement.
2. Omaha (Central Omaha, West Omaha, and Highway 75)
Enforcing Agencies: Omaha Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
Omaha, as Nebraska’s largest city, has a concentration of DUI checkpoints, particularly in its central and western districts. Notable areas of enforcement include 72nd Street, Dodge Street, and parts of Highway 75 running through the city. The area around the Old Market District is also frequently targeted, given the high concentration of bars and restaurants. DUI patrols are especially active during major events like Omaha’s College World Series, as well as weekends and major holiday weekends.
3. Grand Island (Highway 281, Interstate 80 Interchanges)
Enforcing Agencies: Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
Grand Island, located at the intersection of several major highways, experiences a high volume of long-distance traffic, particularly along Highway 281 and Interstate 80. Law enforcement often sets up DUI checkpoints at interchange exits and along major roads leading into the city. Checkpoints are especially common during major events like the Nebraska State Fair or major holiday travel periods when traffic spikes.
4. North Platte (Interstate 80, Highway 83)
Enforcing Agencies: North Platte Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
North Platte is a crucial stopping point for long-haul truckers and travelers crossing the state. The area around Interstate 80 and Highway 83 often sees DUI enforcement, particularly near rest stops and truck stops. The city is also near several recreation areas and is known for heavy alcohol consumption during certain seasonal events, such as local rodeos, festivals, and the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway. DUI checkpoints are set up to target impaired drivers after these events.
5. Kearney (Highway 30, U.S. 83)
Enforcing Agencies: Kearney Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
Kearney is an important travel corridor, located at the intersection of Highway 30 and U.S. 83. DUI checkpoints here are typically set up at key intersections, especially near the University of Nebraska-Kearney campus, where young drivers and students are a focus. Checkpoints are often set up at night after bars close or during major local events, such as concerts or festivals.
6. Hastings (Highway 6, Highway 281)
Enforcing Agencies: Hastings Police Department, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
Hastings, located along U.S. Highway 6 and Highway 281, serves as a central hub for travelers passing through southern Nebraska. DUI enforcement in this area typically focuses on high-traffic roads leading into the city, especially during peak travel seasons or after local festivals, such as the Hastings Sodbuster Days Festival. Officers target drivers who may be returning home after drinking at local establishments or attending public events.
7. Scottsbluff (U.S. 26, Highway 71)
Enforcing Agencies: Scottsbluff Police Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
In the western part of the state, Scottsbluff is one of the main population centers. DUI checkpoints are often set up along U.S. Highway 26, especially near the intersections with Highway 71. Law enforcement targets these areas due to the high volume of travelers and the proximity of several tourist attractions, including the Scotts Bluff National Monument, which can bring out-of-town visitors and increased DUI risks.
8. Norfolk (Highway 81, U.S. 275)
Enforcing Agencies: Norfolk Police Department, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
Norfolk, located along U.S. 275 and Highway 81, is another area where DUI checkpoints are frequently set up. Norfolk is the regional hub for business and commerce in northeast Nebraska. Officers focus on key roads leading into and out of the city. DUI checkpoints are often set up during festivals, fairs, and holiday weekends when traffic volumes spike.
9. Sioux City (Near the Nebraska-Iowa Border)
Enforcing Agencies: Nebraska State Patrol, Sioux City Police Department (Iowa), Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office (Iowa)
Sioux City is located on the eastern edge of Nebraska and is a key crossing point between Nebraska and Iowa. DUI enforcement typically focuses on the border crossing points, including intersections along U.S. Highway 20, especially around the Missouri River. Officers coordinate with neighboring Iowa law enforcement to target potential impaired drivers crossing state lines.
10. Fremont (Highway 30, Interstate 80)
Enforcing Agencies: Fremont Police Department, Dodge County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
Fremont, located along U.S. Highway 30 and Interstate 80, is a critical checkpoint location in eastern Nebraska. DUI enforcement focuses on exits from I-80 and roads leading into the city. Fremont’s proximity to Omaha and Lincoln makes it a high-risk location for DUI incidents, particularly during the holiday season and major summer events.
11. Bellevue (South Omaha and Military Road)
Enforcing Agencies: Bellevue Police Department, Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office
Located just south of Omaha, Bellevue sees significant traffic, especially around the Offutt Air Force Base. DUI checkpoints are often placed along Military Road and other key access points into the city. Officers focus on nighttime enforcement during weekends and military-related events to ensure the safety of both civilian and military drivers.
12. Lincoln County (Sutherland, Brady, Wallace)
Enforcing Agencies: Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol
This area, known for its wide-open roads and agricultural traffic, sees DUI enforcement primarily along major highways like Highway 30. DUI checkpoints are typically established in smaller towns like Sutherland, Brady, and Wallace, particularly during harvest season or after community events.
DUI checkpoints are conducted across Nebraska to ensure the safety of its residents and visitors. Law enforcement agencies, such as the Nebraska State Patrol and local police departments, strategically place these checkpoints at key traffic intersections and high-risk areas where alcohol-related incidents are most likely. Whether you’re traveling through Nebraska’s bustling cities or its rural heartland, always stay alert, drive sober, and know that DUI enforcement is actively working to keep Nebraska roads safe for everyone.