In a joint effort between the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police, and nearly 200 law enforcement agencies, the annual "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign is in full swing this holiday season, extending through January 2. With the primary objective of ensuring road safety during festive celebrations, authorities emphasize the importance of planning for a sober ride home before engaging in holiday festivities.

IDOT's Director of Highways Project Implementation, Steve Travia, emphasized, that impairment of any kind is impairment, whether by alcohol or drugs. Driving impaired is illegal and deadly. The campaign addresses the alarming increase in crash fatalities, with IDOT data revealing 1,213 lives lost through December 14, marking 11 more fatalities compared to the same period in the previous year.

The Illinois State Police will be doing their part to keep roads safe this holiday season, said by Division of Patrol Deputy Director, Christopher Owen. He highlighted enforcement measures such as roadside safety checks and directed patrols focusing on DUI enforcement. Owen urged the public to prioritize voluntary compliance with impaired driving laws, advising individuals to designate a driver, use ride-share services, or call a cab.

Key tips for a safe holiday season include planning ahead for a sober ride, designating a responsible driver, and utilizing community sober ride programs or ride-sharing apps. Authorities encourage bystanders to intervene if they witness someone attempting to drive under the influence, emphasizing the importance of taking away keys and ensuring a safe alternative.

The heightened law enforcement efforts, targeting impaired driving, seat belt violations, speeding, distracted driving, and other traffic offenses, are made possible through federal funds administered by IDOT. This initiative aligns with the comprehensive multimedia campaign "It's Not a Game," reinforcing the serious consequences of unsafe driving behaviors during the holiday season.