With the holidays in full swing, the Lombard Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation to remind motorists about the dangers of impaired driving. From Dec. 16 through Jan. 2, law enforcement across Illinois will step up enforcement efforts with a high visibility “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI.” traffic safety campaign.
“We want everyone in our communities to enjoy the holidays without worrying about the dangers of impaired drivers,” said Lombard Traffic Safety Unit Officer Dan Herrera. “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.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System, in 2020, a total of 11,654 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. On average, more than 10,000 people were killed each year from 2016 to 2020, with one person killed in an alcohol-related crash every 45 minutes in 2020.
Before the holiday fun begins, make a plan for a sober ride home and remember these tips:
- Designate a sober driver or make a plan to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service to get home safely.
- If you see a drunk driver, pull over safely and call 911.
- Have a friend who is about to drive impaired? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get them home safely. They will thank you later.
- Always buckle up!
The holiday enforcement campaign is administered by Illinois Department of Transportation with federal highway safety funds managed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.