Tennessee Highway Patrol Steps Up Patrols for New Year's, Sets Rutherford County Checkpoints

NASHVILLE, TN — In an effort to cut down on traffic fatalities over the holiday weekend, the Tennessee Highway Patrol will have increased presence on the state's roads over the New Year's period. The THP has also set a series of sobriety, driver's license and seat belt checkpoints throughout the area.

Nine people died on the state's roads during the New Year's period last year, down from 16 the year before.

“There will be a lot of celebrations which goes with New Year’s, and we want you to celebrate,” Lt. Don Boshears of THP told WATE. “We just want you to make smart decisions when you do. ... We just ask that you be responsible and make smart decisions. If you know you’re going to a party or an event where there’s going to be alcohol, plan ahead. Ask someone to go with you who does not drink. Let them do the driving.”

The THP has eight checkpoints planned in Middle Tennessee for the holiday weekend:

December 30

• Murfreesboro: Warrior Drive; Seat Belt Enforcement
• Brentwood: Wilson Pike, north of Crockett Road; Seat Belt Enforcement
• McEwen: Highway 70 at the city limits; Sobriety Check
• Springfield/Greenbrier: Highway 41 at the city limits; Sobriety Check
• Clarksville: Highway 41 Bypass, east of Edmonson Ferry Road; Sobriety Check

December 31

• Murfreesboro: Highway 41 and Highway 70; Sobriety Check
• Franklin: Carothers Parkway at Cool Springs Boulevard; Sobriety Check
• Laguardo: State Route 109 at Academy Road; Sobriety Check

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