Police Plan DUI, Seat Belt Enforcement for 4th of July

The following is taken from a press release issued by the : 

The Plainfield Police Department will step up traffic enforcement of drunk and unbuckled drivers in conjunction with the July 4 holiday. The enforcement will focus on the late-night hours, since statistics show a disproportionate number of traffic deaths occur late at night and involve a drunk driver and/or unbuckled motorist. The crackdown is part of the statewide Independence Day Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and Click It or Ticket efforts.

Since the Fourth of July is one of the deadliest holidays due to an increase in drunken driving fatalities, Plainfield officers will be out in full force over the holiday, showing zero tolerance for drunk drivers and those who fail to buckle up.

The statewide effort joins the Illinois State Police with more than 200 local police and sheriff's departments in a statewide effort that began June 22 and runs through July 4.

Plainfield police recommend designating a sober driver and not allowing family or friends to drive drunk. Other important tips include:

• Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver before going out and give that person your keys.
• If you are drunk, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
• Promptly report drunk drivers you see on the roadways by pulling over and dialing 911.
• Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt. It is your best defense against a drunk driver.

The crackdown is funded by federal traffic safety funds through IDOT's Division of Traffic Safety.

For more Fourth of July information and safety tips, check out: