Motorists throughout Southern Illinois can expect increased law enforcement patrols this Halloween weekend as the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and local police agencies crack down on impaired and dangerous driving.
The statewide enforcement effort is part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High, Get a DUI” campaigns, which continue through the Halloween weekend.
The increased patrols will focus on identifying drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs, along with other dangerous driving behaviors.
Illinois State Police Division of Patrol Colonel Chris Owen says troopers will be watching for what the agency calls the “Fatal Four” driving behaviors: speeding, driving under the influence, failure to wear a seat belt and distracted driving.
The enforcement effort will include additional patrols throughout the state, including Southern Illinois highways and roadways in Wayne, Edwards, White, Hamilton, Clay, Wabash and surrounding counties.
IDOT Bureau Chief of Safety Programs and Engineering Stephane B. Seck-Birhame reminds motorists that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is never an acceptable choice.
Officials are encouraging anyone planning to attend Halloween parties or celebrations to arrange a sober ride home before heading out.
Motorists are also reminded to obey posted speed limits, buckle up and avoid distractions behind the wheel.
The Halloween enforcement campaigns are funded through federal highway safety grants administered by IDOT, with support from the Illinois State Police and participating local law enforcement agencies.
The effort is also part of IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” initiative, which promotes safer driving habits and emphasizes the potentially deadly consequences of reckless driving.
Authorities say the goal is to keep Illinois roadways safe throughout the Halloween weekend and prevent crashes, injuries and fatalities caused by impaired or dangerous driving.