Romeoville PD To Increase July Fourth Enforcement Effort

ROMEOVILLE, IL — In a release Tuesday, the Romeoville Police Department announced plans for July Fourth traffic enforcement with a focus on impaired and unbuckled drivers from June 15-July 6.

The officers are asking residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day safely.

"It's simple: If you're driving, don't drink, use marijuana or other drugs. Our officers will be working around the clock to keep impaired drivers off the road and enforce all other traffic laws," the release stated.

According to Illinois Department of Transportation data, there were 14 alcohol-related fatal crashes between 2012-2016, and 16 alcohol-related fatalities during the same period. These are crashes that occurred from 6:00 p.m. on the day before the first full day of the holiday period to 11:59 p.m. on the last day of the holiday period. In all these cases, at least one driver tested positive for alcohol.

Romeoville police will join the Illinois State Police and more than 200 local police and sheriff's departments for the increased statewide enforcement effort.

Some tips from the department to enjoy a safe holiday:

• Designate a sober driver and give them your keys before you go out.
• Don't let friends or family members drive under the influence.
• If you are drunk or impaired by marijuana or other drugs, call a taxi, take mass transit, use your favorite ride-sharing service, or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
• Promptly report drunk drivers to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 911.
• Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt. It's not only the law, but also your best defense against an impaired driver.
• Use the community's designated driver program.