Aurora, Illinois – Aurora police are launching a St. Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign targeting impaired and reckless driving across the city.
According to the Aurora Police Department, the traffic safety campaign will run from Friday, March 13, through Monday, March 23 as part of a statewide effort to reduce alcohol-related crashes during one of the year’s busiest drinking holidays.
Police say officers will increase patrols and conduct enforcement operations focused on impaired drivers, seat belt violations, and other dangerous driving behaviors.
The campaign will feature messages such as “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “If You Feel Different, You Drive Different,” and “Drive High — Get a DUI.” Officers will be working to identify and remove impaired drivers from the road, authorities said.
“Our priority is to ensure that everyone gets home safely,” Aurora Police Chief Matt Thomas said in a statement. “If you plan to celebrate with alcohol, make a plan for a sober ride home.”
Officials say residents should arrange transportation before drinking, including using a designated driver, rideshare service, taxi, or public transportation. Police also urge residents to never allow a friend to drive while impaired and to always wear a seat belt.
The Aurora Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, and other local agencies for the enforcement effort. Officers will conduct roadside safety checks, seat belt enforcement zones, and saturation patrols throughout the campaign period.
Funding for the initiative comes from federal highway safety funds administered by IDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The increased enforcement period may also be noticeable for late-night commuters and rideshare drivers during the holiday weekend.
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