The Knoxville Police Department will conduct a sobriety checkpoint on the night of Friday, August 9.

KPD officers will staff the checkpoint, which will be set up in the 8000 block of Kingston Pike. The checkpoint was originally scheduled for July 19th, but was rescheduled due to weather.

The purpose of the sobriety checkpoint is to deter impaired driving, prevent serious or fatal crashes, and increase public awareness of the consequences of driving while under the influence.

During the checkpoint, officers will check motorists for signs of alcohol or drug impairment.

Alcohol or drug impairment possibly contributed to over 43 percent of the fatal crashes that happened in Knoxville in 2022.

In 2022, the KPD acquired a DUI checkpoint trailer through the Tennessee High Safety Office (TNHSO) Traffic Services grant at no cost to Knoxville taxpayers that will be used during the August 9th sobriety checkpoint.

KPD has hosted two previous sobriety checkpoints in 2024. One was in January in the Fort Sanders area, while the other was on Magnolia Avenue in April.

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.