Cinco De Mayo Sobriety Checkpoint Planned In Montgomery County

GAITHERSBURG, MD — During Cinco de Mayo, there are many celebrations where people choose to drink alcohol, but it's essential to have a sober driver. The Montgomery County Police Department and other agencies will have a sobriety checkpoint Friday, May 5, to get drunk and impaired drivers off the road.

The exact location of the checkpoint will not be disclosed in advance, police say.

Officers from the Montgomery County Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police, and Maryland Natural Resources Police will all take part in the sobriety checkpoint. The enforcement is part of the department’s ongoing effort to curb impaired driving and underage drinking, officials said.

The penalties for a DUI or DWI in Maryland consist of potential jail time, fines, and a minimum of a 6-month license suspension.

Reminders for Drivers

Authorities remind drivers not to use their cell phones while driving. If you must make a call or text, pull onto the shoulder or exit the road, stop your vehicle and then use your phone.

• If practicable, move into an available lane away from the emergency vehicle or tow truck with due regard for safety and traffic conditions; or
• If the driver is unable to safely change lanes, then they must slow to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe for existing weather, road, and vehicular or pedestrian traffic conditions.

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