Norman police plan on using checkpoints, saturation patrols, and educational tactics in order to reduce the number of intoxicated drivers this holiday season. This is the beginning of a larger initiative that will continue through 2010. Oklahoma City will also be setting up random checkpoints throughout the rest of the year at unspecified locations, stopping all vehicles passing through and asking for drivers licenses. Any driver suspected of operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be directed to a safe area off the roadway for further observation and possible testing for intoxication.

DUI checkpoints are especially important in a college town like Norman. According to statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2008, 21- to 24-year-olds account for the highest percentage of impaired drivers during the month of December. They also constituted 18 percent of all alcohol-impaired drivers involved in fatal crashes throughout the entire year of 2008. The weekend of November 17 marked the first of many checkpoints that will be scheduled for various locations around the City of Norman through the holiday season into 2010. Norman Police are encouraging citizens to do the right thing this holiday season and throughout the year. There will be a large number of officers dedicated to reminding those that don’t.