Multi-Agency Safety Checkpoint Scheduled at Little River State Line on U.S. 17

Multi-state and local law enforcement agencies will set up a joint safety checkpoint on U.S. 17 at the Little River State Line starting at 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 28. The operation is part of the 35th annual "Hands Across the Border" campaign, coordinated by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) in partnership with North Carolina law enforcement and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Network.

Prior to setting up the roadblock on U.S. 17, participating officers will gather for a press event at 6 p.m. at Mama Jean’s Restaurant, located at 201 SC-90 in Little River. The enforcement effort falls within the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" window, which runs through Sept. 7.

Drivers traveling through the state line area on U.S. 17 on Friday evening should expect traffic delays starting around 8 p.m. Motorists traveling between Little River and Calabash can utilize SC-90 as an alternate route to avoid potential congestion.

Under federal and South Carolina law, checkpoint operations must follow established administrative guidelines and stop vehicles using a neutral pattern. Drivers stopped at the checkpoint are required to present a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. South Carolina law also mandates continuous video recording by law enforcement during DUI stops under Section 56-5-2953.

The targeted enforcement follows preliminary state safety data showing 36 traffic fatalities in Horry County through late August 2026. Drivers are reminded to plan ahead, use ride-share services if consuming alcohol, and ensure full compliance with state traffic laws, including the state's hands-free driving regulations.