This Labor Day, families and friends will be celebrating the end of the summer. Sadly, this festive time is also a dangerous time on our roads, as many alcohol and drug-impaired drivers get behind the wheel after celebrating. For this reason, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation to stop drunk drivers and help save lives.
The high-visibility “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” traffic safety campaign runs from August 21st through September 4th. During this period, law enforcement across Illinois have increased traffic safety patrols in an effort to keep the motoring public safe. Increased state and national messaging about the dangers of drunk and drugged driving, coupled with increased traffic safety patrols, aim to reduce impaired driving in Lake County and Illinois.
“We want everyone to understand that impaired driving often ends in tragedy,” said Sheriff Mark Curran. Sheriff Curran added, “Impaired driving is a massive problem in the United States, with more than 10,000 people dying annually. In every state, for every person, it is illegal to drive with a BAC of .08 or higher.”
In addition to looking for drunk drivers, The Lake County Sheriff’s Office will also keep a watchful eye for those not wearing their seatbelts, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are at their lowest.
Always designating a sober driver and not letting friends or family drive intoxicated are just two simple steps in helping avoid a tragic crash or an arrest. Other important tips include:
•Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you serve is involved in a drunk-driving crash.
•Make sure your guests designate a sober driver in advance, or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.
•Serve plenty of food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
•Keep the phone numbers for local cab companies handy and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving drunk.
•Designate a sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys.
•If you do not have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, sober friend or family member to pick you up, or just stay where you are.
•Always buckle up.
The Labor Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” traffic safety campaign is made possible by federal highway safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.