Are Sobriety Checkpoints Legal in New Hampshire?

Even though sobriety checkpoints can be frustrating for drivers to experience, they are completely legal in the state of New Hampshire. If you are unsure as to why or how these checkpoints are conducted, this article is for you. Read further to find out more about what to expect at sobriety checkpoints and how and why police are able to conduct these random stops legally.

Laws Officers Must Follow Guidelines at Sobriety Checkpoints in New Hampshire

Police can conduct sobriety checkpoints in the state of New Hampshire as long as they follow state guidelines for setting up the checkpoints. The guidelines were developed by NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). NHSTA has a report that states the guidelines and protocols for legally conducting a sobriety checkpoint. The guidelines state that police should provide advance notice to the public of where and when the sobriety checkpoint will take place. There must also be approval from a local judge in order for the police department to conduct the sobriety checkpoint, and the officers have to follow all the guidelines set in place by the courts of New Hampshire in regards to what takes place at the checkpoints.

What Happens at a Sobriety Checkpoint in New Hampshire?

If you find yourself at a sobriety checkpoint in New Hampshire, here is what you can expect. It is the goal of the sobriety checkpoints to decrease drunk driving and prevent accidents and DUI and DWI incidents. They usually take place in heavily trafficked areas or on busy holidays. A police offer will approach your vehicle and ask to see your license and registration. He/she will ask you a few routine questions such as where you are going or where you have been, if you have been drinking, etc. Hopefully, that is the extent of the sobriety checkpoint for you. However, if the officer suspects that you have been drinking or using drugs, you will be asked to step out of the car for a sobriety test or breathalyzer. In the state of New Hampshire, the police have access to a DUI Mobile Command Center which is equipped with state of the art sobriety testing equipment for field tests and breath or blood alcohol testing. If you fail the tests you could face arrest and be taken into custody.

Benefits to Hiring an Experienced DUI Lawyer in NH

If you find yourself at a sobriety checkpoint and are at risk of being identified as driving drunk or facing DUI or DWI charges, you will need a DUI lawyer to help you through this difficult time. It is likely that you will face jail time, license suspension, and other life changing consequences. Having a DUI lawyer on your side that is knowledgeable about New Hampshire DUI laws can make a major difference in the outcome of your case. If you or someone you know is being charged with DUI or DWI, contact a New Hampshire DUI lawyer today to discuss your case. You will be thankful you did.


By Joseph Annutto

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