University News
OPS Begins Late-Night Enforcement Crackdown
August 8, 2014
MACOMB, IL – The Office of Public Safety at Western Illinois University has announced its late-night enforcement plans for the 2014 Labor Day holiday.
"Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," Impaired Driving Crackdown is designed to focus on the deadliest time of day for motor vehicle fatalities. The enforcement details will begin Aug. 15.
According to data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the midnight to 3 a.m. timeframe is the deadliest time on Illinois roads. The data also shows this time of day has the highest percentage of alcohol involvement and the lowest occupant restraint use.
"The numbers do not lie," said OPS Sgt. Curt Bilbrey. "To help prevent fatalities on Illinois roadways, we are stepping up our late-night enforcement efforts, making sure impaired drivers are off the road and motorists are buckled up."
OPS recommends designating a sober driver and not letting friends and family drive impaired as just two of several simple steps to avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving. Other important tips include:
• Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver before going out and give that person your keys.
• If you are impaired, call a taxi, use the "Go West" transit system or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
• Promptly report impaired drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement.
• Wear your seat belt and make sure all passengers are safely buckled up. It is the best defense against an impaired driver.
The law enforcement crackdown is funded by federal traffic safety funds through IDOT's Division of Transportation Safety and it runs concurrently with a media campaign that will remind motorists, "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over."
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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