CARMI, IL - The Labor Day holiday weekend signifies the end of the summer and the last chance for people to get out and enjoy the warm weather. The holiday weekend is one the busiest driving periods and millions of motorists will hit the roadways nationwide. Illinois State Police (ISP) District 19 Commander, Captain Cory Ristvedt, is reminding motorists to make safety their number one priority while driving during the Labor Day holiday weekend.
This upcoming holiday weekend Troopers will focus their attention on the Fatal 4, those driving behaviors most associated with fatal traffic crashes. These driving behaviors include, Driving Under the Influence (DUI), Speeding, Distracted Driving, and Failure to Wear Seat Belts. In addition to the enforcement of the Fatal 4 violations, Troopers will patrol Illinois roadways watching for and assisting stranded motorists.
There will be additional emphasis on DUI offenses over the holiday weekend. The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign continues through the holiday weekend. The ISP will have additional Troopers conducting Roadside Safety Checks and other emphasis enforcement patrols to remove impaired drivers from the roadways.
Troopers will also be watching for those who fail to slow down and move over. Illinois law requires motorists to reduce speed, change lanes if possible, and proceed with due caution when approaching a vehicle on the side of the road displaying rotating or flashing lights.
According to Captain Ristvedt, “The overall goal for the ISP this upcoming Labor Day holiday weekend is to ensure the safety of those traveling on our roadways. Through the combined efforts of the ISP and the traveling public, this can be accomplished as a result of ISP enforcement efforts and safe driving habits of the motorists.”
Motorists can expect increased traffic volumes and should plan to allow extra time when traveling to their destinations. Voluntary compliance to traffic laws will assist in making Labor Day travels a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
