Palos Police Departments Ramp Up Holiday DUI Patrols, Stay Off The Naughty List

PALOS, IL — It’s the swinging Yuletide season and parties are underway throughout the south suburbs. Police in Palos Heights, Palos Hills and Palos Park are reminding residents to stay off the naughty list by not getting behind the wheel after a night of revelry.

Expect to see a heightened presence of police during the holidays “Click It Or Ticket,” Get Pulled Over,” and “Drive High. Get a DUI” campaigns through Jan. 5. Officers will be paying extra attention to the streets and roadways looking for drunk, high, distracted and unbuckled motorists.

"We want everyone to have a great time with friends and family over the holidays, but to keep everyone safe, we are also urging people to be responsible, make smart choices and plan for a sober ride home,” said Dan Polk, police commissioner of the Palos Park Police Department.

In Palos Park, if you do get into a minor accident, police advise you to move your vehicle out of traffic if possible. Also, after the tragic death of a state trooper who was struck by a truck Monday on I-55, remember that Scott’s Law is a thing.

Should motorists encounter a police, fire or EMS vehicle with their emergency lights on, movie aside or slow down to help them get to where they need to be. The same applies to tow trucks or similar vehicles.

“This season, let’s make safety our shared priority,” said Sergeant Walter Droba, of the Palos Heights Police Department. “If you plan to drink or use impairing substances, plan ahead for a sober ride home and always wear your seat belt. Driving impaired isn’t just dangerous; it’s unacceptable. We’ll be out in full force, and no excuses will be accepted.”

Although these tips have been said many times, many ways, they are worth repeating:

• Check local options: Utilize your community’s sober ride programs.
• Report dangers: If you spot an impaired driver, pull over safely and contact (911 or non-emergency number).
• Be a hero: Stop a friend from driving impaired by taking their keys and helping them get home safely.
• Buckle up: It’s your best defense against impaired drivers and one of the simplest ways to save a life.

The holiday enforcement effort is made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.