Prairie State Wire

With the holiday weekend on the horizon, Illinois Conservation Police are collaborating with the Illinois Department of Transportation to alert drivers about the risks associated with impaired driving. From May 26 to May 29, law enforcement throughout Illinois will intensify efforts with the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" and "Drive High. Get a DUI" traffic safety campaigns.

"We want everyone in our communities to enjoy the holiday weekend without worrying about the dangers of impaired drivers," stated Illinois Conservation Police Lt. Curt Lewis. "During the campaign, you can expect to see extra safety patrols. We will show zero tolerance for alcohol- and drug-impaired driving to help ensure everyone makes it to and from their holiday festivities safely."

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Fatality Analysis Reporting System indicates that in 2020, there were 11,654 fatalities due to motor vehicle crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. Between 2016 and 2020, over 10,000 individuals died each year on average in such incidents, with one person killed every 45 minutes in an alcohol-related crash in 2020.

As festivities approach, officials urge planning for sober transportation options and provide these recommendations:

Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service for safe travel home. If available, consider using your community's sober ride program.

If you spot an impaired driver on the road, pull over safely and contact emergency services by dialing 911.

Prevent friends from driving impaired by taking their keys and arranging alternative transport; they may be grateful later.

Always remember to wear your seatbelt.

The holiday enforcement initiative is organized by the Illinois Department of Transportation using federal highway safety funds managed by NHTSA.