Kentucky State Police to run periodic checkpoints across Perry County

Kentucky State Police Hazard Post 13 announced on Jan. 7 that it will conduct periodic traffic safety checkpoints across its coverage area, including multiple sites in Perry County. The checkpoints are being deployed to enforce traffic laws, deter violations, identify impaired drivers, verify that children are properly restrained and promote seatbelt use.

The department said checkpoints will be conducted under KSP policy and will take place at several county roads and highway junctions. Motorists should expect increased trooper presence at a range of locations commonly used by local commuters and commercial traffic. While the agency did not publish a timetable for every stop, the emphasis is on raising roadway safety rather than issuing indiscriminate citations.

Perry County-specific locations listed for Post 13 checkpoints include KY 15 N. at Grapevine; KY 28 near the gravel pit west of milepost 13.555; KY 476 Homeplace Stretch at Ary; George’s Branch Road near Vicco; KY 1095 at Kodak near Montgomery Creek; KY 80 near Combs; and KY 15 Business/North Main St. at The Riverview Diner in Hazard. These sites reflect a mix of state routes, business corridors and smaller county roads where traffic volume and local travel patterns converge.

For residents, the practical impact will be found in routine travel to work, school and appointments. Drivers who regularly use KY 15, KY 28 or KY 80 may encounter brief stops or slowdowns at these junctions. Parents transporting children should take particular note: one stated purpose of the checkpoints is to confirm child restraints are being used correctly, so having appropriate car seats and booster seats properly installed will reduce the chance of a citation or delay.

The move aligns with broader statewide efforts to reduce impaired driving and increase seatbelt use. Operating checkpoints under agency policy gives troopers a standardized framework for stops, documentation and enforcement actions. While some drivers may view checkpoints as an inconvenience, law enforcement officials point to crash-prevention and lives saved as the central goal.

Local businesses near listed sites should plan for occasional traffic shifts and consider extra time for deliveries or staff commutes during checkpoint periods. Commuters can reduce friction by carrying proof of insurance and registration, ensuring everyone in the vehicle is buckled and securing child safety seats according to manufacturer instructions.

The takeaway? Expect a more visible trooper presence on familiar county stretches, especially on KY 15, KY 28 and KY 80. Our two cents? Leave a few minutes earlier, buckle up every trip and double-check that the kids’ seats are installed correctly — it keeps your day moving and the roads safer for everyone.