DUI Checkpoint Apps Still Prevalent Amid Controversy, Bans
Law enforcement officials are worried about the use of DUI checkpoint apps and want them banned.

October 29, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- DUI Checkpoint Apps Still Prevalent Amid Controversy, Bans

GPS devices have flourished in recent years. GPS users can get handy directions, along with real-time information on road hazards and inconveniences such as construction work that drivers can then avoid. One of the GPS services gaining in popularity, however, has created significant controversy: DUI checkpoint apps.

These apps allow users to know where current DUI checkpoints are located, along with speed traps, red-light and speed cameras.

Many in law enforcement, however, are concerned that DUI checkpoint apps are making the roads less safe by allowing drunk drivers to avoid getting caught. Earlier this year, four U.S. senators wrote to Apple, Google and Research in Motion stating their concerns about these apps and asking each to stop selling any app with the ability to locate DUI checkpoints. Apple and Research in Motion (which makes BlackBerry phones) later stopped offering DUI checkpoint apps. However, Google has so far allowed these apps on its phones. After the senators sent the letter, sales of one popular DUI app doubled, its CEO told USA Today. PhantomAlert, one of the most popular DUI checkpoint apps, has seen sales of its upgraded version jump 3,000 percent, Globalization Today reports.

The app makers argue that other users must update the information when they see a checkpoint themselves, and that the apps themselves just provide a platform. Facebook, for example, also has DUI checkpoint pages and groups. However, because these mobile devices can be updated in real time more quickly than Facebook, they provide more opportunity for potential abuse by drunk drivers.

Proponents of the apps also argue they can actually deter drunk driving by showing that DUI checkpoints are nearby.

DUI Enforcement Still Strong

Despite the increasing use of these apps, DUI enforcement has never been stronger or the penalties for a DUI more severe. Many states have reported record numbers of DUI arrests in recent years.

DUI checkpoint apps should not encourage anyone to drive drunk. However, for those who have had a DUI arrest, the resulting penalties for a conviction can be devastating to the life and work of the person charged. If you are facing a DUI charge, seek out an experienced criminal defense attorney to defend your rights.

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