Crime & Safety

Police Plan Sobriety Checkpoint in Howard County

Weekend checkpoint aims to educate drivers, reduce number of impaired individuals on the road.

The Howard County Police Department will conduct a sobriety checkpoint this weekend.

Police announced Thursday, June 11, that the checkpoint will occur at an undisclosed location this weekend to reduce the number of alcohol-impaired drivers on the road.

In 2014, approximately 27 percent of fatal crashes in Howard County were related to alcohol, according to police.

Find out what's happening in Columbiafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The checkpoint will be marked with lights and signage and be staffed with support from Maryland State Police and personnel from Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

A Maryland Highway Safety Office grant will help fund the checkpoint.

Find out what's happening in Columbiafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Howard County police arrested 994 drivers last year for driving under the influence, police reported.

Police encourage drivers to always drive sober, obey the speed limit, wear a seat belt and eliminate distractions. If you see an impaired driver on the road, please call 911.

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