The Illinois State Police is continuing its efforts to crack down on aggressive driving and road rage across the state as officials work to reduce crashes and violent confrontations on Illinois roadways.

State police say Illinois has seen the same rise in road rage incidents that has affected much of the country in recent years. Those incidents have ranged from aggressive driving and traffic disputes to crashes, confrontations, and even shootings on Chicago-area expressways.

To help improve safety, the Illinois State Police is dedicating additional enforcement resources to areas where road rage incidents are most common. Troopers are conducting targeted patrols and special enforcement details aimed at identifying and stopping dangerous drivers before situations escalate.

Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly says the agency has already conducted saturation patrols and special enforcement operations on Chicago expressways using troopers from across the state. Kelly says those efforts will continue, with a focus on drivers who show what he called "no respect for the law or their fellow human beings."

State police are also reminding motorists that everyone can help reduce the risk of road rage. Drivers are encouraged to remain calm behind the wheel, avoid engaging with aggressive motorists, give others plenty of space, and report dangerous driving when it can be done safely.

Officials say staying patient and avoiding confrontation can go a long way toward keeping Illinois roads safe for everyone.

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