Focus on Nighttime Enforcement During Most Dangerous Times
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois State Police (ISP) today announced their plans to heighten enforcement efforts leading up and through the Memorial Day holiday weekend. Hundreds more safety belt enforcement zones and other patrols are planned over the historically and heavily-traveled holiday weekend. In addition, IDOT also launched a new Click It or Ticket public service announcement to further remind motorists the importance of buckling up.

“IDOT consistently and proactively wants all motorists to be well informed of safe driving practices, including always driving sober and buckling up every trip, every time, and in every seat,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. “Even with last year’s front seat all-time safety belt usage record near 93 percent, our long-standing partnership with law enforcement further solidifies the crystal clear message to motorists to Click It or Ticket both day and night.”

The increase in enforcement has one goal – to save lives during the Memorial Day weekend. Over the past three years, Illinois has seen record lows with regard to vehicle-related fatalities. Enforcement will place a special focus on nighttime activities. Data continues to show that nighttime, from midnight to 6 a.m., is a particularly dangerous time to be on Illinois roadways with more instances of alcohol-related crashes and safety belts less likely to be used. Law enforcement also will be paying particular attention to enforcing the new safety belt law that requires all occupants to buckle up, no matter their seating position.

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