Multiple Checkpoints Planned Across Oklahoma To Combat Drug-Impaired Driving

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and other local law enforcement agencies will team up to conduct ENDUI checkpoints and saturation patrols across the state during a 42-hour enhanced enforcement campaign to end drug-impaired driving.

The campaign, titled END420DUI, is focused on drug-impaired drivers who may be getting high during Marijuana Day, April 20. Historically, the number 420 has been associated with marijuana use.

In 2014, 63 people died in drug-related crashes in the state of Oklahoma. Drug-related crashes, are those where at least one driver has tested positive for any amount of drugs, or where a law enforcement officer suspected that a driver might be under the influence of either illegal drugs or medication. These numbers include prescription medication and other drugs that may or may not cause impairment.

In 2016, the number of people killed in drug-related crashes in Oklahoma rose to 134. These numbers reflect an almost 115% increase in the number of people killed by drivers who may be under the influence of drugs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes after 4:20 pm on April 20 is higher compared to the same times on days one week earlier and one week later.

“The stakes are too high to drive under the influence of anything,” said Lt. Joe Williams with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. “We will be out in force looking for people who may be driving while impaired. This includes alcohol, marijuana, other narcotics, or prescription medication.” 

Checkpoints around the state will be in the following areas in partnership with the listed agencies:

Alva – Alva Police Department, Woods County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Lawton – Lawton Police Department, Comanche County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Oklahoma City – Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, Midwest City Police Department, Oklahoma City Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Tulsa – Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Highway Patrol