Weeks-Long Drunken Driving Crackdown Under Way in Elmhurst, Lombard

This Labor Day, families and friends will be gathering to celebrate the changing of seasons, bidding farewell to a fun-filled summer.

But the festive time is also a dangerous one on area roadways, as many alcohol- and drug-impaired drivers get behind the wheel after celebrating, Lombard and Elmhurst police said in a community alert. For this reason, area patrol officers are partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation to halt drunken drivers and help save lives.

The high-visibility “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” crackdown started on Aug. 22 and continues through Sept. 5. During this period, law enforcement across Illinois will show zero tolerance for impaired drivers and those violating the seat belt law.

“We need people to understand that impaired driving is a deadly crime,” said Paul Rojas, Lombard traffic unit officer. “Impaired driving is a massive problem in the United States, with more than 10,000 people dying annually. There are people who like to pretend that certain laws don’t apply to them, but to be clear: In every state, for every person, it is illegal to drive with a BAC of .08 or higher.”

Upcoming state and national messaging about the dangers of drunk and drugged driving, coupled with roadside safety checks and more officers on the road will aim to reduce impaired driving.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has made it even easier to get home safely when you’ve been drinking, with the free SaferRide mobile app, available through iTunes and Google Play. The app allows you to call pre-selected contacts or a taxi, and also identifies your location so you can be picked up.

Residents are reminded that there is never an excuse to drive impaired.

"If you choose to break the law, you will be arrested," police said.

Designating a sober driver and not letting drunken friends drive home are just two simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest.

Other important tips from local police include:

• Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you serve is involved in a drunk-driving crash.
• Make sure all of your 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 drunken driving.
• Designate a sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car 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 friends leave your sight if you think they are about to drive after drinking.
• Always buckle up – it is your best defense against a drunken driver.