Thanksgiving Traffic Safety Campaign Continues In Lake County: Police

LAKE COUNTY, IL — Like the Illinois State Police and other local law enforcement agencies throughout the state, the Lake County Sheriff's Office announced it will be increasing traffic safety efforts for the Thanksgiving holiday. The campaign is part of the "Click It Or Ticket" and "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" initiatives.

According to officials, the goal of this high-visibility effort is to reduce motor vehicle crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Police believe proper seat-belt use is the most effective way to protect vehicle occupants. The statewide seat-belt usage rate is currently at 92.9 percent, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation. The IDOT pays for the Thanksgiving enforcement effort with federal traffic safety funds.

The LCSO released this list of tips for those celebrating with alcohol or other impairing substances:

• 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 ride-share service or take public transportation.
• If you see an impaired 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.