Click It or Ticket: Illinois police stepping up Memorial Day patrols
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — The Illinois State Police, Springfield Police Department and 200 other law enforcement agencies across the state are stepping up patrols this weekend to look for drivers and passengers in violation of Illinois seat belt laws.
“Whether you’re driving around the corner or across the nation, remember to buckle up every time,” said Springfield Police Sergeant Jeff Royer. “The ‘Click It or Ticket’ effort is about preserving lives. We want seat belt use to be second nature for all drivers and passengers.”
Springfield Police officials said that nationwide, an estimated 92% of people use their seat belts and Illinois boasts a similar usage rate. But the consequences of failing to use one are clear.
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Data from the Illinois Department of Transportation shows that between 2020 and 2023, there were 3,248 deaths of people riding in passenger vehicles during crashes. Of those people, only 1,287 — about 40% — were properly buckled in a seat belt or car seat.
“Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective way to prevent serious injury or death on the road,” said Steve Travia, IDOT’s Director of Highways and Chief Engineer. “We encourage you to speak up if someone in your vehicle is unbuckled or you are with someone who is about to drive impaired. You may save someone’s life.”
Drivers and passengers are required to “Click It or Ticket” for every car trip, day and night, for short and long distances.
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The statewide enforcement effort is funded by federal highway safety funds administered by IDOT. And it comes in advance of the “100 deadly days of summer,” when historically there is an increase in traffic deaths between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
IDOT officials said that last year, from 6 p.m. on the Friday before Memorial Day to 11:59 p.m. on Memorial Day, there were 15 crashes that claimed 17 lives across the state.
“The Illinois State Police will be doing our part to ensure safe travels across Illinois over the Memorial Day weekend,” said Colonel Christopher Owen, ISP Division of Patrol Deputy Director. “Our No. 1 goal is saving lives. With the public’s cooperation, our efforts will result in fewer crashes and zero fatalities. We encourage all motorists and passengers to buckle up as they travel to celebrate with family and friends.”
The Memorial Day Click It or Ticket campaign will run through May 28.
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