Countryside, IL – A new traffic safety campaign is underway in Countryside as police ramp up efforts to crack down on distracted driving ahead of April’s awareness push.
According to the Countryside Police Department, the initiative was announced Saturday as part of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, with local officers joining more than 200 law enforcement agencies across Illinois to increase patrols and enforcement. The effort is being coordinated alongside the Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police.
Officials say drivers can expect a visible increase in traffic stops throughout April, particularly targeting motorists using handheld devices behind the wheel. Authorities emphasized that distracted driving remains a leading cause of crashes on Illinois roadways.
“Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle crashes on our roads today,” Sgt. Michael Maher said in the release. “During Distracted Driving Awareness Month, law enforcement will boost enforcement efforts by stopping anyone who is texting and driving. Remember, if you have a phone in one hand, you can expect a ticket in the other.”
Police stressed that Illinois law requires drivers to use hands-free technology when operating a vehicle. Using a phone in any other manner is not only dangerous but illegal, officials said, reinforcing the campaign’s message: “Drop It and Drive.”
The department noted that the statewide campaign is funded through federal traffic safety funds administered by IDOT, supporting efforts to reduce preventable crashes and improve roadway safety.
Drivers are urged to plan ahead, enable hands-free features, and avoid any distractions while driving as enforcement intensifies across the region this month.
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