It doesn’t take a trick to drive sober: The best treat is to plan ahead this Halloween
SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies across the state are putting a heightened focus on impaired driving this Halloween, reminding the public about the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High, Get a DUI” safety campaigns, which run through this weekend.
“No one should ever drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The only choice to make is to never get behind the wheel if you’re impaired,” said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering at IDOT. “Remember — It’s Not a Game.’”
In addition to the heightened focus on impaired driving, the safety effort also reinforces the importance of seat belt use, adherence to the speed limit and other traffic laws.
“Whether you are headed to a Halloween party or simply driving like any other day, ISP reminds you of the four deadly driving behaviors — speeding, DUI, no seat belt and distracted driving,” said ISP Division of Patrol Col. Chris Owen. “ISP will have extra patrols for the Halloween weekend and we’ll be looking for the Fatal Four.”
If you are impaired by alcohol, cannabis or any drugs:
- Call a cab, use a rideshare service or mass transit. If not available, Ask a sober friend or family member for a ride home.
- Take advantage of your community’s designated driver program, if available.
- Report impaired drivers to law enforcement immediately by pulling over and dialing 911.
- Ensure everyone in your vehicle is wearing a seat belt — it’s your best defense against impaired drivers.
The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI” campaigns, along with increased traffic enforcement, are funded by federal highway safety grants and administered by IDOT. These efforts are supported by ISP and local law enforcement. The campaigns are reinforced by IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” initiative, which spotlights driving and highway safety throughout Illinois.
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Paul Wappel
Maria Castaneda
Illinois State Police
