Countryside, IL – Drivers traveling through Countryside and nearby Cook County communities faced increased police presence during the recent holiday enforcement period, resulting in dozens of traffic citations aimed at improving roadway safety.
According to the Countryside Police Department, officers participated in a statewide holiday enforcement campaign led by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), focusing on impaired driving and seat belt compliance. The initiative ran from Dec. 12 through Jan. 5, coinciding with holiday travel and celebrations.
Police said the department joined the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Click It or Ticket” campaigns, which prioritize removing impaired drivers from the road while ensuring motorists and passengers are properly restrained.
As a result of the enforcement effort, Countryside officers issued 44 citations for seat belt violations, along with five distracted driving citations and 18 additional traffic offenses. Police did not specify whether any DUI arrests were made during the campaign.
Officers conducted patrols across a wide range of roadways, from residential streets to busy suburban arterials and nearby expressways, with the goal of preventing crashes and saving lives.
“Impaired driving is a deadly gamble, no matter where you live,” the department said in a statement. “Whether it’s alcohol, cannabis or any other drug, driving impaired is illegal, irresponsible and puts everyone at risk.”
The campaign was administered by IDOT and funded by federal highway safety funds managed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It is part of Illinois’ ongoing “It’s Not a Game” traffic safety initiative.
Police encourage drivers to plan ahead, designate sober drivers, and always wear seat belts to reduce the risk of serious injury or death.
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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