On July 25, the La Plata Police Department dedicated a brand-new DUI checkpoint to the memory of Autumn Marie Jenkins, a 20-year-old firefighter who was killed in a drunk driving crash last April. Since her death, Autumn’s parents have become very active in raising awareness and working toward the prevention of driving under the influence throughout the region. They plan to have more DUI checkpoints set up throughout the state that will also be dedicated to their daughter’s memory.

The accident reportedly occurred on Route 425 in Nanjemoy. A drunk driver behind the wheel of a 2011 Chevy Silverado allegedly swerved across the centerline and struck Jenkins’ car. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Stopping intoxicated drivers

DUI checkpoints are specific locations where officers have been stationed to check passing motorists for signs of impairment or intoxication. Many jurisdictions use these checkpoints as a way to deter drivers from operating while under the influence. If they know these checkpoints exist, motorists are less likely to take the risk of using a vehicle while legally drunk.

It is not particularly common for DUI checkpoints to be dedicated to individuals, but the La Plata Police Department hopes that adding a name to these checkpoints will get people throughout the community more invested in preventing the problem of drunk driving. It adds a face and a name to the dangers of this irresponsible behavior and gives local residents an example of the devastation it can cause.

To learn more about filing a personal injury lawsuit against a drunk driver after your car accident, contact a skilled La Plata personal injury attorney at Mudd, Mudd & Fitzgerald.