As the holiday season ramps up, Illinois is taking a firm stance on road safety through the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. This initiative, backed by the Illinois Department of Transportation and over 200 law enforcement agencies, aims to curb impaired driving and other traffic violations. Last year during just the Christmas period, 12 fatalities were reported in traffic crashes, with some involving alcohol. Authorities urge the public to plan for a sober ride home and buckle up, emphasizing the role of each individual in avoiding tragedies. With increased patrols and enforcement, they hope to significantly reduce incidents and ensure everyone’s safety on the roads. More safety tips and campaign details are available at itsnotagameillinois.com.
“The holidays should be a time for celebration and creating memories — not for grief and loss caused by preventable crashes,” said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT’s bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering. “Whether you’re using alcohol, cannabis or any other impairing substance, the message is the same: If you drive impaired, you risk lives, including your own.”
“ISP troopers see crashes every day caused by someone who was driving under the influence,” said ISP Division of Patrol Lt. Col. Jason Bradley. “Don’t become a statistic, especially a fatal statistic, this holiday season. If you’re headed to a holiday party or celebration, plan for a sober driver and get home safe.”
