Elmhurst Police Launch Thanksgiving Seatbelt Enforcement Campaign

ELMHURST, IL — As millions of motorists hit the road to celebrate Thanksgiving, Illinois law enforcement will be working around the clock to make sure holiday travelers are buckled up and driving safely. The Elmhurst Police Department is joining the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois State Police to remind motorists to "Click It or Ticket."

The department said the goal of this high-visibility effort is to reduce motor vehicle crashes and resulting injuries and fatalities. Correct seatbelt use is the most effective way to protect vehicle occupants. According to IDOT, the statewide seat-belt usage rate is at 93.8 percent.

“Wearing your seat belt is second nature for most,” Commander Gandy said in a release. “We’re looking for the few Illinois motorists who skip this lifesaving step.”

Stepped-up patrols and seat belt enforcement zones will be seen throughout Elmhurst and the state Nov. 17-27.

“Click It or Ticket is a message we’ve used for years to warn motorists of law enforcement’s intention to issue citations to those who don’t buckle up," Gandy said in a release. “During Thanksgiving weekend and throughout the year, motorists on Elmhurst roads can expect to be ticketed if they are unbelted or driving impaired or distracted.”

The Click It or Ticket enforcement effort is made possible by federal highway safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

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