North Chicago, IL – Illinois drivers will see a major increase in DUI and seat belt enforcement beginning today as police agencies statewide launch their annual holiday safety campaign. The effort runs from today through Jan. 5, aiming to reduce crashes and impaired driving during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
According to the North Chicago Police Department, officers will participate in the statewide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High. Get a DUI,” and “Click It or Ticket” initiatives. The campaigns are supported by the Illinois Department of Transportation and the “It’s Not a Game” statewide outreach program.
“The holiday season is meant for celebration, not tragedy,” Chief Lazaro Perez said in the release. He emphasized that impaired driving remains a leading risk factor in serious and fatal crashes. “If you plan to drink or use impairing substances, plan ahead for a sober ride home and always wear your seat belt. Driving impaired isn’t just dangerous; it’s unacceptable. We’ll be out in full force, and no excuses will be accepted.”
Police urge residents to take steps to prevent impaired driving, including designating a sober driver, using ride-share services, reporting impaired drivers safely, avoiding distractions, and buckling up every trip.
The enforcement surge is funded through federal highway safety grants administered by IDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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