LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) -- Drinking and driving is an issue law enforcement agencies deal with on a daily basis.

In order to decrease the number of alcohol-related accidents, many of these agencies conduct sobriety checkpoints throughout the year.

The Pulaski County Sheriff's department held 8 checkpoints last year. In addition to DWI citations, deputies arrested people for offenses like speeding, child seat violations, driving with a suspended license or no license at all.

Lt. Carl Minden says they hope understand the purpose of the checkpoints.

"That's the whole point, it's just a deterrent. If you're not sure that we're out there or you think we may be on Arch Street, but you're not sure then maybe you won't take that extra drink. And maybe we save a life just out of having the checkpoint."

Many of the agencies rely on federal grant money from the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program, or STEP, to pay officers who work the checkpoints.

Meantime, other departments rely on volunteers to work them.