Thanksgiving 2023: Drive Sober In Arlington Heights Or Get Pulled Over

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Enjoy your turkey, but remember to drive sober. That's the message from the Arlington Heights Police Department, with the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday a little over a week away. Starting Friday, increased patrols will be enforcing safety laws through Nov. 27.

The effort by police agencies across the state is part of the "Click It Or Ticket" program and funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation. According to the IDOT, the statewide seat-belt usage is currently at 93 percent.

According to police, the goal of this high-visibility effort is to reduce motor vehicle crashes and the resulting injuries and fatalities.

"We will be stepping up patrols to keep impaired drivers off the roads and ensure everyone makes it home from their celebrations," AHPD said in a press release.

Police are asking residents to follow these tips:

• Make a plan for a sober ride home before you go out.
• If you’ve been drinking or using marijuana or other drugs, call a taxi, take mass transit, or call a family member to get you home safely.
• Use your favorite ride-share service, such as Uber or Lyft, or use public transportation.
• If you see a drunk driver, pull over safely and call 911.
• Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt. It is the best defense against an impaired driver.