Residents of Knoxville should prepare to slow down and sober up for the upcoming sobriety checkpoint scheduled for April 27. The Knoxville Police Department (KPD) will be manning the station on Magnolia Avenue in the Parkridge area, ready to rigorously examine drivers for signs of intoxication. In an effort to firmly reduce incidents of impaired driving, this initiative aims to prevent serious crashes, a strategy not unseen in previous police endeavors.
The checkpoint comes as a renewed attempt after a prior scheduled check on March 22 was cancelled because of inclement weather. With over 43 percent of last year's fatal crashes in Knoxville bearing the mark of alcohol or drug impairment, the KPD is doubling down to try and drastically cut these preventable tragedies. Citing records, police officials have indicated a chilling correlation between impairment and fatal outcomes on the road.
In addition to the KPD's arsenal, a DUI checkpoint trailer will be deployed during this operation. The trailer, a new acquisition facilitated by a grant from the Tennessee High Safety Office (TNHSO), has been procured cost-free to the taxpayers and represents the department's continued investment in public safety infrastructure.
Roadway vigilance is not only the duty of the police but also a shared responsibility with the community. "The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always practice safe driving habits in all situations. Motorists are encouraged to slow down, buckle up, reduce distractions, pay attention to the road, and never drive while under the influence." a statement released by the department emphasized. Motorists are advised to consciously engage in behaviors that support road safety – slowing down, buckling up, reducing distractions, and paying full attention to the road. But most importantly, never to dare drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The KPD is taking proactive steps to ensure public awareness is heightened, and the roads of Knoxville are kept safe for all who travel on them.
