Impaired, Unbuckled Drivers Will Be Focus Of APD Holiday Enforcement

AURORA, IL — Aurora police are launching a holiday traffic safety campaign Friday with a focus on reducing impaired and unbuckled driving this season.

The high-visibility enforcement, under slogans including "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," "If You Feel Different, You Drive Different," "Drive High Get a DUI" and "Click It or Ticket," will run through the early morning hours of Jan. 2, encompassing Christmas and New Year's.

The Aurora Police Department is joining Illinois State Police and other local law enforcement agencies in the statewide campaign paid for by Illinois Department of Transportation-administered federal funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

"Celebrations are an important part of the holiday season, but safety behind the wheel must remain a top priority," Chief of Police Keith Cross said in a statement. "Our goal is to ensure everyone can enjoy the holidays safely. Drivers should expect strict enforcement of all traffic laws on Aurora roads during this campaign."

The campaign focuses largely on alcohol- and drug-impaired driving, but it also highlights the importance of wearing seat belts. Police said buckling up remains the "single most effective way" to be protected in a crash.

"This holiday season, plan ahead to ensure safety," officials wrote in a news release. "Designate a sober driver, use public transportation, or arrange for a ride-sharing service if you plan to drink. Do not let friends or family members drive drunk, high, or impaired by drugs. Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs can impact judgment and reaction times, making driving unsafe."