DUI Checkpoints in Merced CA

Where Are The Sobriety Checkpoints Tonight in Merced County, CA?

Merced County

Merced County, nestled in California’s Central Valley, is home to a variety of vibrant cities, each with its own unique charm. The county seat, Merced, boasts a rich agricultural heritage and is home to the University of California, Merced. Other notable cities in Merced County include Los Banos, known for its small-town charm and proximity to recreational areas, and Atwater, a growing city with a strong agricultural base. Additionally, Livingston, Dos Palos, Gustine, and Winton contribute to the county’s diverse landscape and tight-knit communities.

DUI Checkpoints

DUI checkpoints in Merced County are typically conducted by local law enforcement agencies, including the Merced County Sheriff’s Office and the California Highway Patrol. These checkpoints are strategically placed at various locations throughout the county to deter impaired driving and ensure the safety of all road users.

1. Merced: Checkpoints may be set up on major roads such as Highway 99, Highway 140, and Highway 152, as well as in residential areas and near popular nightlife spots.
2. Los Banos: DUI checkpoints may be conducted on roads like Pacheco Boulevard, Highway 152, and Mercey Springs Road, as well as near recreational areas like San Luis Reservoir.
3. Atwater: Checkpoints may be positioned on main roads such as Bellevue Road, Winton Way, and Highway 99, as well as near shopping centers and residential neighborhoods.
4. Livingston, Dos Palos, Gustine, and Winton: DUI checkpoints may also be set up in these cities at various locations, including major thoroughfares and intersections.

DUI checkpoints in Merced County are typically conducted during weekends, holidays, and special events when there is a higher likelihood of impaired driving. These checkpoints are usually announced in advance to alert drivers and encourage responsible behavior behind the wheel.

DUI Checkpoints in Merced County, CA: 

Bob Hart Square

• Location: Downtown Merced
• Details: Checkpoints may occur near Bob Hart Square, particularly during downtown events and festivals.
• Types: Sobriety and License Checkpoints.
• Where: Main roads leading to and from downtown.
• Who: Merced Police Department or Merced County Sheriff’s Office.
• When: During downtown events and festivals, typically on weekends.
• Why: To ensure safety during high-traffic events in the heart of Merced.

UC Merced Campus Checkpoint

• Location: University of California, Merced
• Details: Checkpoints might be set up around the university, especially during major events.
• Types: Sobriety and Documentation Checkpoints.
• Where: Entrances and key roads within and around the university.
• Who: UC Merced Police Department.
• When: During university events and weekends.
• Why: Promoting safety within the university community and surroundings.

Main Street Bars and Nightlife Area

• Location: Main Street, Merced
• Details: Occasional checkpoints near popular bars and nightlife spots.
• Types: Sobriety and License Checkpoints.
• Where: Along Main Street and adjacent streets.
• Who: Merced Police Department.
• When: Friday and Saturday nights, from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
• Why: Focusing on areas with increased nighttime activity.

Castle Air Museum Events

• Location: Atwater
• Details: Checkpoints during events at the Castle Air Museum.
• Types: Sobriety and Documentation Checkpoints.
• Where: Entrances and nearby access points.
• Who: Atwater Police Department or Merced County Sheriff’s Office.
• When: Event nights and weekends.
• Why: Ensuring safety during large gatherings at the museum.

Merced Mall Shopping District

• Location: Merced
• Details: Checkpoints near Merced Mall, especially during holiday seasons and sales events.
• Types: Sobriety and License Checkpoints.
• Where: Mall entrances and surrounding roads.
• Who: Merced Police Department.
• When: During holiday seasons, sales events, and weekends.
• Why: Addressing safety concerns during busy shopping periods.

Rancho Del Rey Golf Course Area

• Location: Atwater
• Details: Checkpoints near the golf course, particularly during tournaments and events.
• Types: Sobriety and Documentation Checkpoints.
• Where: Entrances and roads leading to the golf course.
• Who: Atwater Police Department or Merced County Sheriff’s Office.
• When: During golf tournaments and events.
• Why: Ensuring safety in and around recreational areas.

El Capitan High School Events

• Location: Merced
• Details: Checkpoints near El Capitan High School during events or games.
• Types: Sobriety and License Checkpoints.
• Where: School entrances and nearby streets.
• Who: Merced Police Department.
• When: Event nights and weekends.
• Why: Ensuring safe travel around educational institutions.

Tioga Pass Resort Events

• Location: Groveland (near Merced County)
• Details: Checkpoints during events at Tioga Pass Resort.
• Types: Sobriety and Documentation Checkpoints.
• Where: Entrances and key access points.
• Who: Groveland Police Department or Merced County Sheriff’s Office.
• When: Event nights and weekends.
• Why: Addressing safety concerns during gatherings near the resort.

Le Grand High School Football Games

• Location: Le Grand
• Details: Checkpoints near the high school during football games.
• Types: Sobriety and License Checkpoints.
• Where: School entrances and nearby roads.
• Who: Le Grand Police Department or Merced County Sheriff’s Office.
• When: Friday nights during football season.
• Why: Ensuring safety during high-attendance events.

The Branding Iron Bar

• Location: Merced
• Details: Occasional checkpoints near The Branding Iron Bar and surrounding nightlife areas.
• Types: Sobriety and License Checkpoints.
• Where: Near the bar and along main routes.
• Who: Merced Police Department.
• When: Friday and Saturday nights, from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
• Why: Focusing on areas with increased nighttime activity.

Remember, these checkpoints are strategically placed by local law enforcement to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Drive responsibly, and if you’ve been drinking, consider using designated drivers or alternative transportation options. Stay informed and stay safe on the roads of Merced County, California!