Officers to Focus on Impaired and Unbuckled Drivers During Holiday Campaign
The Champaign Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police, and more than 200 local law enforcement agencies to focus on impaired and unbuckled drivers. Drivers can expect high-visibility enforcement throughout Illinois from June 20 through July 7, coinciding with the Independence Day holiday.
“Champaign Police are committed to ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July,” said Police Chief Timothy T. Tyler. “We’re asking all residents to celebrate responsibly by planning ahead to designate a sober driver and avoiding impaired driving. Safety starts with smart decisions, and that includes always wearing a seatbelt and following traffic laws. Together, we can keep our roads safe during the holiday weekend and all summer long.”
To celebrate safely, designate a sober driver and don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Other important tips include:
- Give your designated driver your keys before you go out.
- If you are impaired by alcohol, cannabis, or any other drug, call a taxi, take mass transit, use a ride-sharing service, or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
- Promptly report impaired drivers to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 9-1-1.
- Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt.
During the campaign, officers will promote visible enforcement of Illinois law in an effort to encourage sober driving and the use of vehicle restraints. Those found to be impaired, unbuckled, or violating other rules of the road will be issued citations and written warnings, when appropriate. Efforts to address these concerns in Champaign will focus on arterial routes.
This Illinois traffic safety campaign is funded with federal traffic safety funds administered by IDOT.