Woodridge Police Department Focusing On Safety This Thanksgiving Holiday
Police and safety officials in Woodridge are reminding residents to fasten their seat belts over the Thanksgiving holiday period or run the risk of receiving a ticket. In addition to stepping up enforcement on seatbelt safety, they will also have extra patrols watching for impaired drivers.
“A lot of people will be out during this busy holiday season, enjoying themselves and the holiday festivities, and we want everyone to be safe on our roadways,” said Woodridge Police Department’s Deputy Chief Gina Grady. “That’s why we will be stepping up enforcement to catch and arrest impaired drivers. Please be forewarned, if you are caught drinking and driving impaired you will be arrested. No warnings. No excuses. In addition, our officers will be watching motorist to ensure that they are using their seatbelts properly.”
“No one ever thinks that their holiday celebration will end in jail, or worse,” said Grady, “but for those who celebrate with alcohol and then get behind the wheel, this is often the case.”
There are several simple steps you can take to stay safe and out of trouble:
1. Fasten your seatbelt each and every time you get into the car. In addition, make sure all of your passengers are buckled up.
2. Plan ahead. If you will be drinking, do not plan on driving. Designate a sober driver or find another safe way home. Even one too many drinks increases the risk of a crash while driving a motor vehicle.
3. If you are impaired, find another way home. Use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.
4. Be responsible. If someone you know is drinking, do not let them get behind the wheel. If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone’s life.
“We want all drivers and passengers to Click It or Ticket, day and night—and remember Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” said Grady.
For more information about the Click It or Ticket and the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaigns, please visit www.buckleupillinois.org.