Buffalo Grove Police Announce Thanksgiving Traffic Safety Campaign

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Local roads will be much busier in the next weeks as many travelers leave Buffalo Grove for other destinations, while others plan to celebrate Thanksgiving in Chicagoland. As a result, motorists should expect to see a greater police presence as part of the annual "Click It or Ticket" and "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" enforcement campaign, running Friday through Dec. 2.

The Buffalo Grove Police Department will be joining Illinois State Police and other local law enforcement agencies to ensure holiday travelers are buckled up and driving sober.

"Thanksgiving means more vehicles on the road and an increased risk of crashes," Commander Tara Anderson said. "No matter how long or short your drive, remember to buckle up and ensure that children are correctly secured in a safe seat. By buckling up and planning for a sober ride home, you help everyone enjoy a safe and happy holiday."

According to police, the campaigns emphasize safety education, strong laws and law enforcement's commitment to saving lives. The goal of the high-visibility effort is to reduce motor vehicle crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

Police say proper seat-belt use is the most effective way to protect vehicle occupants. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, the statewide seat-belt usage rate stands at 92.4 percent, indicating that there is still room for improvement.

If you're celebrating with alcohol or other impairing substances, Buffalo Grove police ask you to 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 rideshare service, such as Uber or Lyft, or opt for public transportation.
• If you see a drunk driver, pull over safely and call 911.
• Ensure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt. It is the best defense against an impaired driver.

This Thanksgiving enforcement effort is made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.