State police prepare for extra New Year’s patrol

Posted on December 30, 2015
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Expect a stronger police presence on Illinois roadways during the upcoming holiday. (WJBC File Photo)

 

By Dave Dahl/Illinois Radio Network

SPRINGFIELD – Careful out there – Thursday’s Amateur Night.

“Illinois State Police troopers will be stepping up patrols this weekend,” said Gianna Urgo, spokeswoman for the Illinois Department of Transportation. “They will be looking out for the ‘fatal four,’ which (are) DUI, speeding, distracted driving, and seat belt compliance.”

Urgo said cars and roads are being designed to be safer than ever. That, combined with the graduated driver’s license, “hands-free” cell phone law, and other factors, make Illinois a relatively safe place to be. She said favorable weather and lower gas prices have put more people on the roads, leading to more crashes, though.

2015 stands to be the first year since 2008 traffic fatalities in the state reached 1,000.

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