News & Updates | Greenberg & Greenberg

Summer brings heavier traffic, packed holiday events, and more time spent on Florida’s waterways. With that increase in activity, law enforcement often steps up DUI and BUI enforcement to help prevent impaired driving and boating accidents. Understanding how these checkpoints work can make the experience smoother and less stressful if you ever encounter one.

At Englander Peebles, we know how dangerous impaired driving can be for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and passengers. While our firm is known for helping injury victims as a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer team, our goal is also to help people stay informed and safe—whether they’re on the road or on the water.

Why DUI And BUI Checkpoints Increase During Summer

Travel spikes during the summer months as families head out on vacations, friends gather for weekend outings, and boaters take advantage of warm weather. With more vehicles and vessels in motion, alcohol-related incidents tend to rise as well.

To reduce these risks, agencies frequently schedule more DUI and BUI checkpoint operations during high‑traffic times. These stops are meant to prevent crashes before they happen by discouraging people from getting behind the wheel—or the helm—while impaired.

Major holidays and long weekends often bring the most noticeable enforcement. For drivers, this means a greater chance of encountering roadside checkpoints. For boaters, increased patrols on lakes and rivers are common.

What You Can Expect At A DUI Checkpoint

DUI checkpoints are typically placed in predetermined locations where officers briefly stop vehicles following a consistent pattern, such as every car or every few cars. These setups usually include cones, signs, or flashing lights that direct drivers into a screening lane.

Once you reach the front of the line, officers generally request basic documents, including:

Your valid driver’s license
Your vehicle registration
Your proof of insurance

While reviewing paperwork, officers may watch for signs that suggest impairment, such as delayed reactions or the smell of alcohol. If they see indicators that require further review, they may ask the driver to pull into a secondary area for additional screening.

Most drivers move through checkpoints within a few minutes when no issues are identified.

How BUI And Boating Safety Checks Work

Boating enforcement differs slightly from roadside checkpoints. Marine patrol officers can stop a vessel and conduct a safety inspection without needing suspicion of a violation. When signaled, boat operators must stop and allow officers to board or conduct the inspection.

During a typical safety check, officers may ask for documentation and confirm that your vessel carries the required safety equipment. Items commonly evaluated include:

Vessel registration or documentation
Life jackets or flotation devices
Fire extinguishers
Navigation lights and other safety gear

These inspections are usually routine and brief. If officers notice signs of impairment, the stop may transition into a BUI investigation.

Your Rights During Checkpoints And Safety Inspections

Drivers and boaters must follow lawful procedures during these stops, but they still maintain important rights. At a DUI checkpoint, drivers generally must stop and provide identification and documentation when requested. Outside of those requirements, individuals typically have the right to provide only the information necessary to complete the interaction.

Drivers may also decline consent for vehicle searches unless officers have probable cause or a legal basis to proceed. If the stop shifts from routine screening to detention, it is reasonable to ask officers to clarify your status.

On the water, operators must allow lawful safety inspections, but they also may decline consent to searches that go beyond the inspection’s purpose unless probable cause exists. If the encounter becomes an impairment investigation, operators may ask for clarification as well.

Understanding Implied Consent Laws

Most states, including Florida, enforce implied consent laws for both motor vehicles and vessels. These laws generally require individuals who are lawfully arrested for suspected impairment to submit to chemical testing such as breath or blood tests.

Refusing these tests can lead to administrative penalties, including license suspension or restrictions on boating privileges—sometimes even before the criminal case concludes. Because laws vary by state, it is important to understand the consequences that apply once an arrest occurs.

When To Consider Speaking With An Attorney

Many checkpoint encounters end quickly without any legal complications. However, there are situations where seeking legal guidance may help protect your rights. You may want to speak with an attorney if:

You were arrested or cited for DUI or BUI
You received notice of a potential license suspension
You believe procedures were not followed correctly
You are unsure of your rights or next steps

Legal insight can help you understand your options and the best way forward.

If you or someone you know is facing DUI or BUI charges or needs guidance after an impaired driving incident, our team at Englander Peebles is here to help. Although we are widely recognized as a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer and South Florida personal injury attorney firm, we can also connect individuals with trusted legal assistance for related criminal matters when needed.

To learn more about your rights, request a confidential consultation with our team today at Englander Peebles. Our Fort Lauderdale office is committed to supporting individuals across Broward County and South Florida, especially those navigating challenging situations after an accident or legal issue.