Williamson County, IL – As New Year’s Eve celebrations get underway tonight, law enforcement officials in Williamson County are reminding residents there is no excuse for impaired driving — and no reason to risk it.
According to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies will once again operate Project Safe Passage, a safety initiative designed to prevent impaired drivers from getting behind the wheel and reduce serious or fatal crashes on local roadways.
Officials warn that alcohol, recreational drugs, and even some prescription medications can impair driving ability. Sheriff Jeff Diederich emphasized that choosing to drive while impaired puts not only the driver at risk, but also passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians.
Residents planning to celebrate are encouraged to stay home, use a rideshare or taxi service, or designate a sober driver in advance. Many local establishments also offer non-alcoholic beverages for designated drivers.
For those who unexpectedly become impaired and have no safe way home, Project Safe Passage provides a last-resort option. Impaired drivers may call 618-997-6541 and request assistance. A dispatcher will arrange transportation from the driver’s location within Williamson County to their residence or another safe location within the county, up to 15 miles — whichever is closer.
The program operates from 10:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 31, 2025, through 4:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 1, 2026. Rides to bars or other businesses are not permitted. If a vehicle cannot safely remain at the pickup location, deputies may arrange for it to be towed home free of charge to avoid hardship.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 12,429 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes nationwide in the most recent year of available data.
Sheriff Diederich urges residents to celebrate responsibly and start the new year safely: Don’t drive impaired.
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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