South Dakota Highway Patrol to Target Impaired Driving with February Sobriety Checkpoints

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The South Dakota Highway Patrol has announced it will conduct sobriety checkpoints in 15 different counties throughout February.

The initiative aims to reduce alcohol-related accidents and discourage motorists from getting behind the wheel while under the influence. The checkpoints are a collaborative effort, funded by the South Dakota Office of Highway Safety and executed by the Highway Patrol with support from local law enforcement agencies.

Locations for February 2026

Motorists can expect to see increased law enforcement presence and checkpoints in the following counties:

Region	Counties Included
East River	Brookings, Charles Mix, Codington, Davison, Lincoln, Minnehaha, Roberts, Sanborn, Yankton
West River	Jackson, Lawrence, Meade, Pennington, Stanley
Northern Border	Walworth

A Commitment to Public Safety

While the Highway Patrol releases the list of counties to raise public awareness, officials emphasize that the goal is prevention, not just enforcement.

“The monthly checkpoints are intended to discourage impaired driving,” the Department of Public Safety (DPS) stated in the announcement.

State officials are urging drivers to plan ahead. Regardless of whether a checkpoint is scheduled in their specific area, the message remains clear: Do not drink and drive.

Safe Alternatives

To ensure everyone reaches their destination safely, the DPS recommends the following alternatives for those who plan on consuming alcohol:

·        Designate a sober driver before the festivities begin.

·        Utilize ride-sharing services or local taxi companies.

·        Use public transportation where available.

The South Dakota Office of Highway Safety and the Highway Patrol are both agencies of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.