Law enforcement agencies often set up sobriety checkpoints on major roadways and highways – especially on weekends, holidays, and other times when people are more likely to be drinking. In theory, checkpoints can get unsafe drivers off the road, as well as deter would-be drunk drivers from getting on the roads. At the same time, some argue that checkpoints are not only inconveniences, but serious infringements on privacy rights. Who is affected by these checkpoints? For all affected, what good comes from checkpoints? What harms? Are there long-term consequences? Are there indirect or unintended consequences? Do the overall good effects outweigh the overall harm caused?
