Oak Lawn Police Beef Up Patrols For St. Patrick's Day Weekend

OAK LAWN, IL – As we head into St. Patrick’s Day weekend, the Oak Lawn Police Department is reminding motorists that they will be out in full force to keep our roads safe while the green beer flows. Officers will be patrolling the streets through the early morning hours of March 19.

All too often, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations turn deadly because of impaired driving. However you celebrate, make sure you and your friends stay safe this St. Patrick’s Day by remembering one important piece of advice: If you’ll be drinking alcohol, using cannabis or any other impairing substance, remember “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI.”

“This year, St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Friday, and that means more parties throughout the weekend,” said Sgt Acke, of the Oak Lawn Police Department. “If you’ve been drinking, using cannabis or any other impairing drug, make the smart choice and plan for a sober driver to get you and your friends home safely. We want everyone to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, but safe driving is everyone’s responsibility.

In addition to looking for alcohol and cannabis-impaired drivers, Oak Lawn policewill be stepping up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are lowest. Speeding, distracted driving and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced.

“Before celebrating St. Patrick’s Day this year, decide whether you’ll drink or you’ll drive, or whether you’ll use or you’ll drive,” Sgt. Acke said. “If you choose to drink or use cannabis, designate a sober, reliable driver to get you home safely.”

Always designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive drunk are just two simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

Before you put your keys in the ignition, remind yourself: “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.”