Alcohol-related deaths in crashes fall in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — Figures from the Illinois Department of Transportation show a decline over several recent years in the number of deaths from crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers.

The department released data Thursday showing a steady decline in such deaths in Illinois from 2006 through 2010.

In 2006, there were 446 deaths related to impaired driving on Illinois roadways. By 2010, there were 298 deaths in crashes involving alcohol.

Drivers should expect tough enforcement of drunken-driving laws during the holidays, including New Year’s weekend. More than 200 local police and sheriff departments plan to cooperate with the Illinois State Police in conducting nearly 100 roadside safety checks, 400 safety belt enforcement zones and hundreds of additional impaired driving and nighttime safety belt patrols.