Additional patrols across the state now through January 2
information provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (December 28, 2018) – “Last year, six people died on our roads over New Year’s, and four of those deaths were alcohol-related,” said Cynthia Watters, IDOT’s bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering. “It’s everyone’s responsibility to make good decisions before getting behind the wheel. It really is a matter of life or death –– yours as well as others.”
This year, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, and nearly 200 local law enforcement agencies are hoping to save lives during the New Year’s holiday by reminding motorists to drive sober.
Now through the early morning of January 2, Illinois motorists will see additional enforcement patrols across the state to help keep roads safe.
The holiday campaign features the familiar “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Click It or Ticket” messages. In addition to DUI and seat belt offenders, law enforcement will show zero tolerance for speeding, distracted driving, and other offenses.
“Our troopers will be doing their part to keep roadways safe by strictly enforcing all laws, with a focus on seat belt usage, as well as reckless, impaired and distracted drivers,” said ISP Director Leo P. Schmitz. “We ask drivers to please make this holiday safe for all travelers by driving sober and making responsible choices before getting behind the wheel. With the public’s voluntary compliance, we are confident the holiday can be safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
Plan ahead to avoid a tragedy for yourself or others:
- If you plan to drink or use any impairing drugs or substances, plan for a sober driver to take you home.
- If it’s your turn to be the designated driver, take that role seriously—your friends are relying on you.
- If you see a friend or family member who is about to drive impaired, take the keys away and help them get home safely.
- Use a community sober ride program if available, call a cab, or use your favorite rideshare app.
The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Click It or Ticket” programs are administered by IDOT using federal funds.
