The Village of Oak Park | 123 Madison St.  Oak Park, IL 60302 | village@oak-park.us

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Police to be out in force over Thanksgiving

Nov. 25, 2014 - Oak Park Police will be out in force over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend looking for impaired and unbuckled drivers as part of a statewide Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and Click It or Ticket campaign.

The intensified enforcement comes as local residents prepare for what is typically a busy travel weekend. Last year, seven people died and 723 motorists were injured in Illinois traffic crashes over Thanksgiving weekend, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

"Our goal is to make sure everyone on our roads reaches their destination safely this weekend," said Deputy Police Chief Anthony Ambrose. "Officers will be out enforcing traffic laws around the clock, especially late at night when seat belt scofflaws and impaired driving are the biggest problems."

To avoid a potential crash or an arrest for driving under the influence, the Oak Park Police Department recommends designating a sober driver and not letting friends or family members drive drunk. Other important tips include:

  • Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver before going out and give that person your keys.
  • If you are drunk, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
  • Promptly report drunk drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 911.
  • Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears a seat belt – it’s the best defense against a drunk driver.

For more information on traffic safety in Oak Park, e-mail police@oak-park.us.