SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement are reminding motorists to not be an impaired driving “monster” this Halloween because the consequences could be frightening and deadly for you and others. The key messages are simple: “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” and “If You Drive High, You’ll Get a DUI.”
“Stay safe this Halloween by planning ahead. If you’re planning to drink, use cannabis or consume any other drug, make sure you have a plan to get home without driving,” said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering at IDOT. “Arrange for a cab, rideshare, mass transit or designate a sober driver before the party starts.”
As of Oct. 11, 898 people have died on Illinois roads, according to IDOT provisional data – 87 fewer than on the same date a year ago. However, while crash fatalities are lower than this time last year, they are significantly higher than they were in 2020 and previous years.
“There’s no trick to avoiding a DUI,” said ISP Division of Patrol Col. Chris Owen. “If you drink or drive high, we’ll treat you to a DUI this Halloween.”
Before donning your costume, plan for a safe way home. Other important tips:
- If you are impaired, call a cab, use a ride-sharing service or mass transit.
- Promptly report impaired drivers by pulling over and dialing 911.
- Make sure everyone in your vehicle buckles their seat belt. Every time. It’s the law and your best defense in a crash.
Law enforcement will use federal highway safety funds distributed by IDOT to carry out the statewide campaign, which runs through Nov. 1. The effort coincides with IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” radio, digital and TV campaign that reminds motorists of the consequences of impaired driving as well as distracted driving, work zone safety, pedestrian safety, motorcycle awareness and occupant safety.
Visit www.itsnotagameillinois.com for more information.