As we near the end of summer and the busy Labor Day weekend, the Lombard Police Department is partnering with the Illinois State Police and law enforcement across the state to stop impaired driving and help save lives.
“Our first priority is to keep people safe, so we’re asking everyone to plan ahead for a sober ride home if they’ll be drinking or using another impairing substance,” said Sergeant Tom Balsitis.
Important tips to remember:
- If hosting, make sure all guests designate a sober driver in advance or arrange ride-sharing or another sober ride home. Also, serve lots of food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
- If you do not have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, or stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
- Don’t let friends leave your sight if you think they are about to drive impaired.
- Always buckle up – it is your best defense in a crash.
The high-visibility “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign runs from Aug. 18 through the early-morning hours of Sept. 5. During this period, law enforcement will be stepping up efforts focused on impaired, unbuckled and distracted drivers.
In addition to looking for drunk drivers, Lombard Police will be stepping up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are at their lowest. Speeders and distracted drivers should also be aware.
The Labor Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI.” enforcement efforts are made possible by federal highway safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.