Berkshire County residents know drunk driving is no joke. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that nearly 30 people die every day in drunk-driving crashes across the U.S. — about one death every 52 minutes. Those numbers hit home for many, including the writer of the original report, who survived two serious crashes years ago without harming anyone else.
The Massachusetts State Police announced they will conduct another sobriety checkpoint this weekend. The checkpoint is scheduled for the overnight period from Friday, November 14, into Saturday, November 15.
Hours may vary, but MSP says sharing the information ahead of time helps reduce driver anxiety and ensures motorists understand the checkpoint’s purpose. They emphasized that safety will be a top priority.
This checkpoint will take place in Hampden County, funded by a grant from the Office of Grants and Research within the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
The goal is straightforward: educate drivers about the dangers of impaired driving and remove anyone operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. State Police also highlighted that vehicles will not be stopped arbitrarily — selection follows a specific, non-discriminatory pattern.
Their message remains clear: If you’ve been drinking, do not drive. Always wear your seatbelt — it’s your best protection against impaired drivers on the road.
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