Howard County Police to Hold Sobriety Checkpoint

Don't be surprised to see police out in force this weekend in Howard County.

The Howard County Police Department announced Wednesday that officers would hold a sobriety checkpoint at an undisclosed location over the weekend.

Police said the checkpoint would be clearly marked with signage, lights and uniformed officers.

Funded in part by a grant from the Maryland Highway Safety Office, the sobriety checkpoint initiative is designed to raise awareness about impaired driving while reducing the number of drunk drivers on the roads, according to police.

In 2013, the Howard County Department reported that it arrested 1,165 individuals for driving under the influence.

Throughout the year, the Howard County Police Department holds sobriety checkpoints and has special details focused on targeting drivers impaired by drugs and alcohol, police said. 

Most recently, a checkpoint that was slated for March was postponed due to inclement weather, police said.

Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for Maryland residents, according to police.

Approximately 27 percent of fatal collision in Howard County in 2013 were alcohol related, police said.

Police encourage driving sober, obeying speed limits, wearing a seat belt and eliminating distractions. Anyone who sees a drunk driver on the road should call 911.