Police Up DUI Patrols Leading Up To Labor Day In Skokie

SKOKIE, IL — In preparation for the Labor Day holiday this year, law enforcement in Skokie is upping patrols to catch impaired and distracted drivers on roads.

The traffic safety campaign runs from Aug. 15 to Sept. 2, encompassing three weekends leading up to and after Labor Day.

"Driving under the influence — whether it's alcohol, cannabis, or any impairing drug — is not just risky, it's illegal," Sergeant Melissa Russel said. "We'll be patrolling with zero tolerance for impaired driving, because our goal is to protect the people within the Village of Skokie."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, impaired driving crashes tend to increase around the holiday. During the 2023 Labor Day holiday, there were 511 crash fatalities nationwide. Of those people, 185 were killed in crashes that involved at least one alcohol-impaired driver.

Impaired driving doesn't just include alcohol, some prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, other illegal drugs and marijuana can also land someone a DUI. Skokie officers will also be stepping up enforcement for seat belts, speeding, and distracted driving.

First-time DUI charges can cost a maximum of $2,500 in fines, and drivers could get their licenses suspended if convicted.

“Impaired driving is totally preventable, yet more than 12,000 people are killed each year because someone selfishly decides to drive under the influence. Law enforcement officers nationwide are joining us to help stop impaired drivers and save lives. Make the responsible choice ahead of Labor Day weekend and plan ahead — arrange for a sober ride home. Yours is not the only life at stake,” NHTSA Chief Counsel Peter Simshauser said.

To celebrate safely this summer, law enforcement recommends designating a sober driver and not letting friends or family drive drunk. If you think you are too impaired to drive, call a taxi, take public transit, use a ride-sharing service or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.

Traffic enforcement campaigns are funded by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.