ISP increasing patrols to help prevent alcohol-related crashes
ILLINOIS (WICS/WRSP) — As you hit the roads this holiday weekend, Illinois State Police are reminding you of their increased patrols.
In particular, this year they're looking for distracted drivers and drunk driving.
In 2017, between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Illinois saw 11 fatal car crashes. Four of those were alcohol-related crashes.
Now on New Year’s last year, Illinois saw a total of six fatal car crashes. Four of those were alcohol related.
Overall last year, a total of 330 people in Illinois were killed in alcohol-related crashes.
"Get there safe and sound,” driver Amos Myrick said. “Drink as much as you want when you get there, don't go home. Just stay there and pass out. Don't get behind the wheel, please."
Males between the ages of 21 and 24 have the highest DUI rate in Illinois.
"Designated drivers, Uber's a good choice,” driver Mark Porter said. “And [there's] always the package deals at the big hotels for New Year's Eve."
According to the Secretary of State, the average DUI now-a-days costs $18,000. That takes into account legal fees, insurance costs and lost wages.
