Prairie State Wire

With the summer season in full swing and the July Fourth holiday approaching, Illinois authorities are stepping up safety measures across the state. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), in collaboration with the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement, is intensifying efforts to enforce traffic laws as part of the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign. This initiative, backed by federal funding, will run through July 5, aiming for zero tolerance towards impaired driving due to alcohol, marijuana, or other substances.

"Impaired driving is illegal, dangerous and often deadly," stated Steve Travia, IDOT Director of Highways Project Implementation. He emphasized that driving under the influence poses a risk not only to drivers but also to others on the road. Travia urged residents not to let an arrest spoil their Independence Day celebrations.

Law enforcement agencies across Illinois will focus on curbing impaired driving while strictly enforcing seat belt usage and speed limits. Seat belts remain a crucial defense against impaired drivers, and wearing them is mandatory in Illinois.

Col. Margaret McGreal from the ISP Division of Patrol advised celebrating responsibly during this festive period. "We all want to celebrate our nation's birthday this Fourth of July, but make sure to do it responsibly," she said. McGreal noted that most crashes can be prevented and encouraged drivers to take extra precautions amid increased holiday traffic by buckling up, staying attentive, avoiding impairment while driving, and adhering to speed limits.

Preliminary data from last year indicates there were 20 fatalities in 19 crashes over the Independence Day holiday period from July 1-4 in Illinois.

Authorities remind citizens of key safety tips: if consuming alcohol or any impairing substance, hand over your keys to a sober driver or use a taxi or rideshare service; report any impaired drivers observed on roads; advise friends against riding with impaired drivers; and intervene if someone intends to drive while impaired by taking their keys away.

The "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign aligns with IDOT's broader "It's Not a Game" multimedia effort aimed at enhancing public awareness about road safety.