Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and law enforcement agencies convened today at the Route 66 Exhibit at the Illinois State Fairgrounds to promote the nationwide "Speeding Catches Up with You" campaign. The initiative aims to emphasize safe driving practices in Illinois and remind motorists to reduce their speed.

"Unfortunately, we keep seeing alarming rates of speed-related crashes," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. "Crashes caused by speeding are 100% avoidable and always come with a cost, whether it's tickets, hospital bills, court dates or, most unfortunately, someone's life."

Speeding remains the leading cause of motor vehicle crashes. In 2023, 1,241 people were killed in crashes in Illinois, with 55% of those deaths attributed to speeding.

To highlight the dangers associated with speeding, Governor JB Pritzker proclaimed July 17 as Illinois Speed Awareness Day.

"A road trip isn't just about the destination; it's about the ride and all the things you'll find on the way," said Jonlee Anderle, Region 5 Administrator for NHTSA. "But if you're speeding, you may miss out - or you just might never arrive at all. That's because Speeding Catches Up with You, which is the theme of this year's campaign. Speeding is stressful; it's inconsiderate to other drivers; and it makes you a danger to yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. We all share the road, so slow down, enjoy the ride, and get to your destination safely."

For more information about the "Speeding Catches Up with You" campaign, click here.