Drivers Reminded that Intoxicants Lead to Increased Danger Behind the Wheel
The Champaign Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police, and more than 200 law enforcement agencies to stop impaired driving and keep our streets safe. Drivers can expect high-visibility enforcement throughout Illinois from March 13 through March 23, coinciding with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
“Our community deserves to be safe on our streets, and impaired driving puts everyone at risk,” said Police Chief Timothy T. Tyler. “We’re asking everyone to celebrate responsibly by avoiding impaired driving, including being proactive to designate a driver and not allowing friends to drive under the influence of intoxicants.”
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 intoxicants, 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, addressing drivers impaired by intoxicants – alcohol, cannabis, and even prescription medications, among others. 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.
These efforts are undertaken by officers on assigned, grant-funded details. They are conducted in addition to the proactivity of Champaign Police personnel on routine patrol. This Illinois traffic safety campaign is funded with federal traffic safety funds administered by IDOT.