South Dakota Highway Patrol Announces February Sobriety Checkpoints

Checkpoints planned in 15 counties, including 4 in West River region

Jan. 27, 2026 at 1:47pm

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The South Dakota Highway Patrol is holding sobriety checkpoints in 15 counties across the state in February. Four of the counties are located in the West River region, including Pennington, Jackson, Lawrence, and Meade. The checkpoints will be staffed by state troopers with assistance from local law enforcement.

Why it matters

Sobriety checkpoints are a common tactic used by law enforcement to deter drunk driving and improve public safety on the roads. South Dakota has historically had higher rates of impaired driving incidents compared to the national average, making these checkpoints an important tool for the Highway Patrol.

The details

The South Dakota Highway Patrol conducts sobriety checkpoints on a regular basis, sending out monthly warnings to remind drivers not to drink and drive. The upcoming February checkpoints will involve state troopers working alongside local law enforcement officers to screen drivers for signs of impairment.

  • The sobriety checkpoints will take place across 15 counties in South Dakota during the month of February 2026.

The players

South Dakota Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling highways and enforcing traffic laws in South Dakota.

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The takeaway

Sobriety checkpoints are an important tool for law enforcement to combat drunk driving and improve public safety on South Dakota's roads. The upcoming February checkpoints in 15 counties, including 4 in the West River region, demonstrate the Highway Patrol's commitment to this effort.