CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The Champaign Police Department will increase enforcement against impaired driving as part of a statewide traffic safety campaign running March 13–23, timed with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Local police are partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police and more than 200 law enforcement agencies across the state to reduce impaired driving and improve road safety.
Police Chief Timothy T. Tyler said the campaign is designed to remind residents that driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, prescription medications or other intoxicants puts everyone at risk.
“Our community deserves to be safe on our streets, and impaired driving puts everyone at risk,” Tyler said. “We’re asking everyone to celebrate responsibly by avoiding impaired driving, including being proactive to designate a driver and not allowing friends to drive under the influence of intoxicants.”
During the enforcement period, officers will focus on arterial routes in Champaign and conduct high-visibility patrols looking for impaired drivers, seat belt violations and other traffic offenses.
Police encourage residents celebrating St. Patrick’s Day to plan ahead by choosing a sober driver, using taxis or ride-share services, or arranging a ride with a sober friend or family member.
Motorists are also urged to report suspected impaired drivers by safely pulling over and dialing 911.
The traffic safety effort is funded through federal traffic safety grants administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
