New Jersey State Police recently announced that they will be setting up more DWI checkpoints this summer season. These checkpoints are part of an aggressive crackdown that police are launching in response to drunk driving around the Jersey Shore. According to a division spokesman for the NJ State Police, troopers will use state crash data to identify areas on Long Beach Island that are considered problematic. Checkpoints will then be set up in those locations.

More Information About Summer DWI Checkpoints on Long Beach Island

Police announced Toms River in Ocean County as a starting point for this summer's drunk driving crack down. Police have stated that because alcohol has been a contributing factor in nearly a third of all fatal crashes over the last decade, discouraging drunk driving is their top priority.

Since deterrence is part of this program, targeted areas will be announced in advance via the New Jersey State Police Facebook page. However, information won't be disclosed about exact details or locations of checkpoints. Additionally, police have announced that citizens can report suspected drunken drivers by calling #77 and provide a description of the vehicle and occupants, a location & direction and a license plate if possible.

Are New Jersey DWI Checkpoints Legal?

One common question about checkpoints in New Jersey is if they are actually legal. The answer to that question is yes. The constitutionality of DWI checkpoints has been affirmed by both the New Jersey and United States Supreme Courts. Since DWI checkpoints sidestep the standard requirement that police must have reasonable suspicion of a violation in order to initiate a traffic stop, some drivers have refused to speak to officers at checkpoints.

For drivers considering that option, it's important to know that a driver's refusal to answer questions may not preclude police from finding probable cause to conduct a further search or make an arrest. In terms of what police need to do to make checkpoints legal, requirements include:  using visible locations for checkpoints, having minimal time for each stop, utilizing random mathematical formula to choose which vehicles to stop and only using checkpoint time to check for overt signs of impairment.

Dealing with a DWI Charge in New Jersey

Any driver driving under the influence in NJ can be charged with DWI. A driver who is arrested for DWI is required to take a breath test. Refusing to do so can result in additional penalties. If you've been charged with DWI in New Jersey or are ever arrested for this offense, you can call 609-389-9470 for a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney at Villani & DeLuca.