CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL (Chambana Today) — The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office will increase traffic enforcement efforts ahead of St. Patrick’s Day as part of a statewide campaign aimed at preventing impaired driving.
The safety campaign will run March 13 through 6 a.m. March 23 and is conducted in partnership with the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation.
Sheriff Dustin Heuerman said officials expect celebrations to extend beyond the holiday itself since St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year.
“With St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Tuesday this year, we expect celebrations throughout the entire week — plus the weekends before and after,” Heuerman said. “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.”
During the enforcement period, deputies will focus on drivers impaired by alcohol, cannabis and other drugs, including prescription medications that can affect driving. Officers will also increase enforcement of seat belt laws, particularly during nighttime hours when compliance rates are typically lower.
Authorities will also be watching for speeding, distracted driving and other traffic violations.
Officials encourage people attending parties or events to plan a safe ride home, designate a sober driver or use public transportation or ride services.
The sheriff’s office also urges residents to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911 and to help prevent friends from driving under the influence.
The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI.” campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.