Buffalo Grove Police Launch St. Patrick's Day Traffic Safety Campaign

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Residents should prepare for increased police presence on local roadways as the village gears up for St. Patrick's Day. The Buffalo Grove Police Department announced it is teaming up with the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation for a specialized traffic safety campaign.

This enforcement effort is scheduled to run from March 13 through March 23. Officials said the campaign aims to remind motorists of the dangers of impaired driving to help keep streets safe.

"With St. Patrick's Day falling on a Tuesday this year, we expect celebrations throughout the entire week, plus the weekends before and after," Deputy Chief Tara Anderson said. "We urge everyone to celebrate responsibly. Plan ahead for a sober ride home before you leave the house — your safety and the safety of others depend on it."

During this enforcement period, officers will focus on drivers impaired by alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs, including certain prescription medications. Police will also conduct increased seat belt enforcement, especially during nighttime hours when compliance rates are typically lower. Furthermore, officers will strictly monitor speeding, distracted driving, and other violations of state traffic laws.

Buffalo Grove police are also reminding residents that walking or biking while impaired can be dangerous.

If anyone sees an impaired driver, they are encouraged to call 911 to report the behavior. If someone is with a friend who plans to drive while impaired, they should take the keys away and assist them in finding a safe ride.

The campaign, which includes the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" and "Drive High. Get a DUI" initiatives iare funded by federal traffic safety funds. These funds are provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and are administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.