Naperville Police Stepping Up Enforcement For St. Patrick's Day

The following was provided by the Naperville Police Department:

"St. Patrick’s Day has long celebrated the roots of millions of Americans with Irish ancestry. All too often, however, the celebration can turn deadly because of impaired driving. This year, if you’ll be drinking alcohol, the Naperville Police Department has some advice for you: “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over!”

“Naperville Police will be on patrol this St. Patrick’s Day, so make sure you obey the law,” said Naperville Police Sgt. Derek Zook. “Don’t drink and drive, and don’t let your friends do it, either. Help us make zero fatalities a reality in Illinois.”

In addition to looking for alcohol- and drug-impaired drivers, the Naperville Police Department will be stepping up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are lowest.

Sgt. Zook said always designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive drunk are two simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of drugs and/or alcohol. Here are a few other important reminders:

If you are hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party:

· Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you serve is involved in an impaired driving crash.

· Make sure all guests designate a sober driver in advance or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.

· Serve lots of food and include lots of non-alcoholic beverages at the party.

· Keep the phone numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving drunk.

If you are attending a St. Patrick’s Day party:

· Designate a sober driver before the party begins and give that person your keys.

· If you do not have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, sober friend or family member to pick you up or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.

· Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive drunk.

· Always buckle up.

This St. Patrick’s Day, Plan Before You Party

Pedestrians are at risk, too. If you are walking, keep an eye out for cars. Designated drivers: Be alert for impaired walkers who may not obey street signs.

The St. Patrick’s Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative is funded by federal traffic safety funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is administered through the Illinois Department of Transportation."

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