Illinois Cops To Crack Down On Buzzed Drivers 4th Of July Weekend

Headlines like that one might leave you with the impression that the cops don't usually go after impaired drivers at any other time of the year. That's not the case at all.

Of course, Illinois law enforcement officers are always on the lookout for impaired drivers. However, with one of the busiest travel holidays of the year approaching, police agencies across the state are preparing a much larger enforcement effort aimed at keeping drunk and drug-impaired drivers off Illinois roads.

Beginning this week and continuing through July 6th, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Illinois State Police (ISP), and more than 250 local law enforcement agencies will participate in a statewide Fourth of July traffic safety campaign.

The goal is to find impaired drivers before they injure or kill someone. Officers will be conducting additional patrols, sobriety enforcement details, and traffic stops throughout the holiday travel period.

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People Have Drinks (And Other Things) All Year Long, But On Some Occasions, They Go A Little Harder

The timing makes sense.

Independence Day consistently ranks among the most dangerous holidays for impaired-driving crashes. State officials note that hundreds of people have already lost their lives on Illinois roads this year, and alcohol remains a major factor in many fatal crashes.

If you're thinking a DUI is merely an expensive traffic ticket, you and your bank account might want to think again.

According to Illinois DUI penalty information, a first-time DUI conviction can bring fines of up to $2,500, license suspension or revocation, mandatory alcohol education programs, court costs, increased insurance premiums, and possible jail time. Repeat offenders face even steeper penalties, including felony charges and fines reaching $25,000.

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And That's Just The Legal Side Of Things

IDOT estimates the average total cost of a DUI in Illinois at nearly $19,000 when attorney fees, court costs, insurance increases, license reinstatement fees, ignition interlock devices, and other expenses are added together.

Law enforcement officials have a straightforward message for the holiday weekend: If you're planning to drink or use cannabis or other impairing substances, arrange a sober ride home before you leave. Use a rideshare service, public transportation, a taxi, or designate a sober driver. It costs far less than a DUI, and could save a life.

This Fourth of July, expect to see more flashing lights on Illinois roadways. Police certainly will be looking.