Drive Responsibly and Avoid Tragedy

Illinois State Police (ISP) District 21 Commander, Captain Don Aaron Harsy would like to remind motorists to drive sober or designate a sober driver while celebrating the July 4th holiday period. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) remains the number one cause of fatal crashes during Independence Day celebrations. Additionally,speeding, distracted driving, and not wearing a seatbelt are the other main causes of personal injury and fatal crashes. Troopers will be doing their part to keep the roadway safe by watching for impaired, distracted, and reckless drivers.

The ISP encourages those at celebrations involving alcohol to avoid impaired driving altogether. The following tips will help you avoid tragedy:
 Designate a sober driver or arrange for alternate transportation before the celebration begins.
 If you are impaired, utilize a cab service, rideshare service, take public transportation, or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
 If you see what appears to be an impaired driver on the road, call 911.
 If you are aware someone is about to operate a motor vehicle while impaired,take their keys and help make arrangements to get them to their destination
safely.

“Independence Day is celebrated nationwide. In an effort to keep our roadways safe,Illinois State Police District 21 Officers will provide increased patrols, targeting on violations associated with injury or fatal crashes. By increasing visibility and enforcement efforts, District 21 Officers hope to assist in ensuring Independence Day celebrations are safe and memorable, ” added Captain Harsy.
During this holiday period, ISP Troopers will focus their efforts on enforcing Fatal-4 violations: DUI, Speeding, Seatbelts and Distracted Driving, which are all contributing factors to traffic crash related fatalities.

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