The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOC) to conduct a St. Patrick’s Day traffic safety campaign to help keep our streets safe. The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is reminding motorists of the dangers of impaired driving, from both alcohol and cannabis. The Henry County Sheriff’s Office will be stepping up seat belt enforcement, speeding, distracted driving and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced.
“Because St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, we anticipate that alcohol consumption will increase both that day and throughout the weekend,” said Sheriff Verscheure. “We ask everyone to celebrate responsibly, starting with a plan for a sober ride home before you leave the house.”
St. Patrick’s Day can be a dangerous one on America’s roads due to increased alcohol consumption and drunk driving. There were 272 lives lost in drunk-driving crashes over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday between 2017 and 2021..
When it’s time to leave, make sure your designated driver is sober. Designate a sober friend that can walk you home. Designated drivers: Be alert for impaired walkers who may not obey street signs.
Other important tips:
• Drunk or high, it doesn’t matter. It is never okay to drive impaired. Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement.
• Have a friend who is about to drive impaired? Take the keys away and plan to get your friend home safely.
• Always buckle up!
The St. Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered by IDOT.
