10 Day Evanston Enforcement Campaign Will Target Impaired Drivers

EVANSTON, IL — The Evanston Police Department will step-up enforcement during the days surrounding St. Patrick's Day to impaired drivers.

From March 13 to 23, the Evanston Police Department will keep an eye out for drivers impaired by alcohol or marijuana. Officers will also look for seatbelt violations.

“With St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Tuesday this year, we expect celebrations throughout the entire week — plus the weekends before and after,” said Sergeant Amanda Wright “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 depends on it.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, impaired driving crashes tend to increase around this time of year. During St. Patrick's Day 2023, one person was killed every 42 minutes in a drunk driving crash. There were 2,117 people killed in alcohol-related crashes around the holiday in 2023, NHTSA said.

Impaired driving doesn't just include alcohol, some prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, other illegal drugs and marijuana can also land someone a DUI.

First-time DUI charges can cost a maximum of $2,500 in fines, and drivers could get their licenses suspended if convicted.

“Impaired driving is totally preventable, yet more than 12,000 people are killed each year because someone selfishly decides to drive under the influence. Law enforcement officers nationwide are joining us to help stop impaired drivers and save lives. Make the responsible choice ahead of Labor Day weekend and plan ahead — arrange for a sober ride home. Yours is not the only life at stake,” NHTSA Chief Counsel Peter Simshauser said.

Traffic enforcement campaigns are funded by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.