Naperville Police to Crackdown on Drunk Drivers

When it comes to drinking and driving, the Naperville Police Department is warning drivers to "drive sober, or get pulled over."

Beginning Friday, Aug. 16, police will be participating in a crackdown through Labor Day in an effort to stop impaired driving as well as seat belt violations.  

Officers will be "aggressively looking for drunk drivers" during the crackdown, police said in a release. 

“Every year in Illinois, about one third of all motor vehicle traffic deaths involve one or more drunk drivers or motorcycle operators,” said Sgt. Al Trotsky in a release.

Sergeant Trotsky added that holidays such as Labor Day are particularly dangerous.

“Research has shown that high-visibility enforcement like the 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign reduces drunk driving fatalities by as much as 20 percent.  By joining this effort, we will help make Naperville’s road safer for everyone throughout the Labor Day period,” Trotsky added in the release.

Police also warned that drivers should use good judgement before getting behind the wheel. 

“We want to remind everyone that getting behind the wheel drunk is a terrible idea. Unfortunately, not only does drinking impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely, it also impairs your judgment and good sense about whether you can, or should drive. If you have any doubt about your sobriety, do not get behind the wheel. If you do chose to drive impaired, you will be arrested. No warnings. No excuses,” Trotsky said.

As part of the statewide campaign, police will be on the lookout for seat belt violators as well. 

“In addition, the Naperville Police Department will be stepping up seat belt law enforcement, especially during the all-too-dangerous late night hours when seat belt us is lowest," Trotsky added. “Zero tolerance will be shown for seat belt law violators -- in the front and back seat."

“Driving drunk is simply not worth the risk. So don’t take the chance. Remember, we will be out in force and we will be watching, so ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,’” said Trotsky in a release.

The crackdown is funded by federal traffic safety funds through the Illinois Department of Transportation, according to the police department.