Palos Park, IL – With holiday shopping crowds growing across Cook County this week, the Palos Park Police Department is urging both pedestrians and drivers to take extra precautions to stay safe near stores, malls, and busy roadways.
According to the department, seasonal foot traffic and heavier evening shopping patterns increase the risk of collisions, especially in parking lots and poorly lit areas. Police are reminding pedestrians to follow the rules of the road, use designated crosswalks whenever available, and wear bright or reflective clothing to make themselves more visible to drivers after dark.
For drivers, police emphasize slowing down and remaining alert, particularly around intersections, crosswalks, and entrances to major shopping centers. According to officers, many holiday-season crashes occur when drivers are distracted, speeding, or failing to signal when navigating congested parking lots. The department also recommends motorists turn on headlights earlier in the day and stay mindful of reduced visibility during rain, snow, or heavy traffic.
Police say the goal of the campaign is to reduce preventable injuries during one of the busiest retail periods of the year. With more families shopping in the evening, officers urge drivers to watch carefully for children who may dart between parked cars or step into roadways unexpectedly.
As holiday traffic continues through the weekend, the Palos Park Police Department encourages residents to plan extra travel time, avoid distractions behind the wheel, and report unsafe behavior when observed.
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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