Oak Lawn Police Plan DUI and Seat Beat Patrols During Holidays

OAK LAWN, IL — With the holidays rapidly approaching, Oak Lawn police will be watching traffic for signs of impaired drivers who may have imbibed a little too much at a holiday party. The Oak Lawn Police Department will be running special patrols through Jan. 3, as will police in other nearby communities.

Oak Lawn police officers will be on the lookout for drunk drivers and seat belt violators. So don't mess up your holidays by getting a DUI or a hefty ticket because your kids aren't buckled in their seat belts.

“Driving impaired, whether under the influence of alcohol or drugs, can have catastrophic consequences and is illegal in every state” said Sgt. M. Acke, traffic supervisor for the Oak Lawn Police Department. “Not only do you put yourself at risk, but the lives of others as well.” If your celebration involves alcohol or other impairing substances, please plan ahead for a sober ride home and remember to buckle up – it’s the best defense against an impaired driver.

Keep these tips in mind to help ensure a safe and joyful holiday season:

• Before you head to the party, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service to get home safely.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 9-1-1.
• Have a friend who is about to drive impaired? Take their keys and help them get home safely.
• Always buckle up.

The holiday enforcement effort is made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.