Montgomery, Illinois – As millions of motorists hit the road to celebrate Thanksgiving, the Montgomery Police Department joins the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement to remind holiday travelers of the importance of buckling up and driving sober.
The annual high-visibility effort aims to reduce motor vehicle crashes and the resulting injuries and fatalities. The “Click It or Ticket” and “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaigns run November 17-27 and promote that correct seatbelt use is the most effective way to protect vehicle occupants. According to IDOT, the statewide seatbelt usage rate has room for improvement at 92.9%.
“Thanksgiving and the holiday shopping season means more vehicles on the road – and an increased risk of crashes,” said Liz Palko, Commander of the Montgomery Police Department. “No matter how long or short your drive, it is essential to remember to buckle up and ensure children are in a safe seat.” The Montgomery Police Department will step up patrols to keep impaired drivers off the roads and ensure everyone is home from their celebrations safely.
If you’ll be celebrating with alcohol or other impairing substances, please remember:
- Plan for a sober ride home before you go out.
- Call a taxi, take mass transit, or ask a family member to get you home safely.
- Use your favorite ride-share service, Uber or Lyft, or take public transportation.
- If you see a drunk driver, pull over safely and call 911.
- Please make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt. It is the best defense against an impaired driver.
The Thanksgiving enforcement effort is made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
For further information, please contact Commander Palko at palko@ci.montgomery.il.us.