Plainfield Police Cracking Down on Drunk Drivers Over Labor Day

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

But this festive time is also a dangerous one on area roadways, as many alcohol- and drug-impaired drivers get behind the wheel after celebrating, Plainfield police said on Friday. For this reason, local 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 runs from Aug. 22 through Sept. 5. During this period, law enforcement across Illinois will show zero tolerance for impaired drivers and those violating the seat belt law, according to a Plainfield Police Department news release.

"Increased state and national messaging about the dangers of drunk and drugged driving, coupled with roadside safety checks and increased officers on the road aim to reduce impaired driving in Plainfield and Illinois," department representatives said.

There will be a special emphasis on impaired driving enforcement during the local crackdown period. Plainfield drivers should expect to see more patrol vehicles and increased messaging about the dangers of drunken and drugged 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 release said. "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 Plainfield 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.

The Labor Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” crackdown is made possible by federal highway safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.