The Village of Oak Park | 123 Madison St.  Oak Park, IL 60302 | village@oak-park.us

Main menu

STAY CONNECTED

Buckle up to arrive safely this Thanksgiving

Nov. 18, 2022 - As millions of motorists hit the road to celebrate Thanksgiving, the Oak Park Police Department is joining other Illinois law enforcement agencies around the state to make sure holiday travelers are buckled up and driving safely.

The goal of this high-visibility effort is to reduce motor vehicle crashes and the resulting injuries and fatalities. Correct seat-belt use is the most effective way to protect vehicle occupants. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, the statewide seat-belt usage rate is at 93 percent.

“Wearing your seat belt is second nature for most,” said Police Chief Shatonya Johnson.  “We’re looking for the seven percent of Illinois motorists who skip this lifesaving step.”

Drivers and passengers can expect a ticket if they are spotted without a seat belt. Stepped-up patrols and seat belt enforcement zones will be seen throughout the Village and the state Nov. 18-28.

If you’ll be celebrating with alcohol or other impairing substances, please remember:

  • Plan for a sober ride home before you go out.
  • If you’ve been drinking or using marijuana or other drugs, call a taxi, take mass transit, or call a family member to get you home safely.
  • Use your favorite ride-share service or use public transportation.
  • If you see a drunk driver, pull over safely and call 911.
  • Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt. It is the best defense against an impaired driver.

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

For more information about traffic safety in Oak Park, email police@oak-park.us. Additional information about the Oak Park Police Department is available at www.oak-park.us/police.