SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) are calling on teens to celebrate responsibly during the upcoming prom and graduation season.
Last year, over 840 teens aged 15-18 suffered injuries in traffic crashes between April 16 and May 31, mainly due to speeding, distracted driving, improper seatbelt use, and impaired driving.
ISP emphasizes the permanent consequences of reckless driving. “There is no pause or reset button in real life,” they warn, urging teens to follow speed limits, wear seatbelts, avoid distractions, and refrain from impaired driving. Illinois enforces a zero-tolerance underage drinking law.
Colonel Chris Owen, of ISP’s Division of Patrol, highlighted the importance of safety during these celebrations: “No parent or guardian wants to receive a visit from us with bad news. These should be joyful times, not tragic.” To prevent accidents, ISP will increase patrols and conduct mock crash presentations to illustrate the dangers of risky driving behaviors.
