Sobriety Checkpoint Set For Friday In Solon

SOLON, OH — As you prepare for your upcoming long weekend, be aware that Solon Police will be conducting an impaired driving checkpoint on Friday. The checkpoint is designed to detect impaired drivers before they can cause harm to others.

“Because impaired driving accounts for so many of our region’s traffic safety deaths, it is imperative that we find ways to keep impaired drivers off the roadways and to convince those who’ve been drinking not to get behind the wheel in the first place,” notes Ptl. Roy Cunningham in a statement.

Ohio has struggled to contain alcohol-related crashes. In 2016, there were 12,243 alcohol-related crashes throughout the Buckeye State. Those crashes led to 346 deaths and 7,199 injuries.

During the checkpoint, officers will stop vehicles in a predetermined sequence to evaluate drivers for alcohol or drug impairment. There will also be saturation patrols on Friday, meaning police will increase their enforcement of traffic laws in specific geographic areas.

“Highly visible and well publicized checkpoints are an important part of the equation because they increase the perceived risk of arrest and make people think twice about drinking and driving,” explains Ptl. Cunningham. “We want the public to know where we are, and we want those who read about the checkpoint to tell everyone they know that we’re cracking down on impaired driving in the City because we want everyone on our roadways to be safe.”

The Solon Police Department also released a list of tips for drivers during the Memorial Day weekend. If you're planning on going out and partying, remember these tips:

• designate a driver
• call a cab
• stay at your home or a hotel
• call a friend or family member

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