Police ramp up traffic patrols during the holidays

Illinois State Police and transportation officials are stepping up their drunk-driving and seat belt enforcement as part of a final safety push this year.

Drivers can expect to see hundreds of roadside safety checks, seat belt enforcement zones and enforcement patrols looking for drunk drivers and unbuckled motorists in final days of the year.

Transportation officials say the increase in enforcement comes at a time of year when data shows late-night alcohol involvement is higher and seat belt use lower than at other times throughout the year.

Patrols will be dispatched during deadly nighttime hours.

Preliminary figures show that 937 people have died in car crashes this year. That's 53 more people than the same time last year.

Transportation officials say they want the roads safe for the holidays.