Buckle up and drive safely!
Police will be out in force both day and night as part of the 2012 Thanksgiving Mobilization in the late-night fight against impaired driving and seat belt law violators.
The 2012 holiday campaign runs from Monday, Nov. 12, through Sunday, Nov. 25.
- During the 2011 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, eight people lost their lives in motor vehicle traffic crashes. Four of those deaths involved alcohol. More than 800 were injured.
- Late night hours are the most dangerous driving hours when the highest percentage of motorists die in alcohol-involved crashes and seat belt usage is the lowest.
- Law enforcement will be out in force day and night. If you are not wearing your seat belt, the fine is $25 plus additional court costs. If you are stopped for impaired driving, you will be arrested!
- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, research has shown that when lap and shoulder belts are used properly, the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passenger car occupants is reduced by 45 percent, and the risk of moderate to serious injury is reduced by 50 percent.
- The best defense against an impaired driver is a seat belt. Buckle up, every trip, every time, every vehicle, every position.
- If you drink, designate a sober driver.
- Motorists are reminded of the new law that took effect Jan. 1, 2012: Everyone, no matter the age or seating position, is required to wear a seat belt.
For more information, call (217) 331-3760 or email mwingo@ilchiefs.org.
