Charleston police set up safety checkpoints to ensure a safe New Year's Eve celebration.
As Charleston prepares to celebrate New Year’s Eve, the police department is taking precautions by setting up safety checkpoints on December 31, 2025. These checkpoints will operate from 9:30 PM to midnight at key locations to ensure the safety of those on the road. The initiative aims to combat impaired driving and ensure that drivers are licensed and sober. With a notable increase in DUI arrests in recent years, officials are urging the community to plan ahead for a safe night out and enjoy the festivities responsibly.
As the clock winds down and we get ready to toast to a brand new year, Charleston is taking extra steps to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and responsible night out. The Charleston Police Department is rolling out safety checkpoints on Thursday, December 31, 2025, to keep our roadways safe as the festivities kick off!
Mark your calendars! The checkpoints will be operational from 9:30 PM to midnight—the very time when many revelers will be celebrating the incoming year. So if you’re planning to head out, be sure to keep an eye out for the added police presence. You’ll spot checkpoints at two major spots: Highway 61 near Penn Ave and Folly Road near Sawgrass Road. Remember, this is not just another routine check; it’s all about making sure our community remains safe as we ring in the new year!
At these checkpoints, police officers will be focused on a few specific things. They’ll be checking for valid licenses to ensure that all drivers are legally allowed to be behind the wheel, looking for any signs of impairment, and making sure that children are safely buckled in their car seats, if applicable. This initiative is part of a larger effort to combat impaired driving, especially during New Year’s celebrations when many might be tempted to have one too many.
Well, it’s no secret that Charleston has seen an uptick in DUI arrests, much to the concern of local law enforcement. For instance, the number of DUI arrests reported by the Charleston Police has jumped from 419 in 2023 to 531 through November 2024. That’s quite a leap! In the nearby Mount Pleasant area alone, there had been 233 total DUI arrests as of December 12, 2024.
To tackle this problem, the Charleston Police Department is collaborating with organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). This partnership aims to bring awareness to the dangers of drunk driving and to foster safer practices during celebrations.
Did you know that South Carolina ranked with the fifth-highest number of drunk driving fatalities in the U.S. back in 2022? That’s a pretty alarming statistic and underscores the urgent need for initiatives aimed at reducing instances of impaired driving. The police want to emphasize how crucial it is to plan ahead—if you’re planning on enjoying some drinks, consider using rideshare services or designating a sober driver. It’s all about making sure you get home safely!
The Charleston Police aren’t just gearing up for checkpoints; they are also preparing for the large crowds expected in downtown Charleston. With the celebration for the New Year set to draw many, it’s essential for officers to maintain a high presence, including both uniformed personnel and traffic patrols, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their evening without any problems.
So as we get ready to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026, let’s keep our focus on fun while being responsible. Remember to abide by traffic laws, stay safe, and most importantly—have a blast! Here’s to a safe and joyous New Year!
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