St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner and that means that the Illinois Department of Transportation will be working with the Illinois State Police to make sure that people stay safe, and to help prevent impaired driving.  IDOT says that your #1 priority should be finding a sober driver before the festivities start. 

Federal highway safety funds through IDOT are available to ISP and local law enforcement agencies for roadside safety checks, seat belt enforcement, and other patrols to enforce impaired driving, seat belt usage, speeding, distracted driving, and other traffic laws. 

If you are hosting a party, ISP reminds you that you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served is involved in an impaired driving crash.  Make sure that all of your guests designate their sober drivers in advance or help arrange ride sharing with other sober drivers.  Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages at the party. 

If you are attending a party, designate your sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys.  If you don’t have a designated driver, ask a sober family member or friend for a ride home or call a cab.  Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they will drive impaired.  Always buckle up, it’s your best defense against an impaired driver. 

For more safety tips visit isp.illinois/gov.