MINOT, N.D. (NDHP) – On Friday, November 3, the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the Ward County Sheriff’s Office, and the Minot Police Department will conduct a sobriety checkpoint at a predetermined location in Ward County. A Saturation Patrol will commence following the checkpoint.

Impaired driving and impaired driving related motor vehicle crashes are a continued threat to the safety of those traveling on North Dakota’s roadways. Through October 22 of this year, there have been 81 fatal crashes on North Dakota roads resulting in 91 fatalities. Seventeen of these fatalities (18.7%) were alcohol related. The sobriety
checkpoint reflects NDHP’s ongoing efforts to maintain roadway safety by targeting specific times and locations to have a greater impact at reducing incidence of impaired driving.

NDHP Northwest Regional Sergeant Michael Brown stated, “Impaired driving is completely preventable; NEVER drive impaired. We encourage motorists to ensure their safety and the safety of others and to plan ahead and designate a sober driver or arrange for a safe trip home before going out.”

The North Dakota Highway Patrol is committed to the Vision Zero strategy which aims to establish a culture of personal responsibility where motor vehicle fatalities and serious injuries are recognized as preventable by driving sober, wearing seat belts, and driving distraction-free. Results from this planned enforcement will be released early the week following the event.