St. Patrick’s Day Traffic Enforcement Campaign

St. Patrick’s Day will be here before we know it, bringing parades, parties, green beer and more to communities throughout the state. To help keep our streets safe, BPD is teaming up with the Illinois State Police and Illinois Department of Transportation for a stepped-up traffic safety campaign running March 13 through 6 a.m. March 23.

With St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Tuesday this year, we expect celebrations throughout the entire week — plus the weekends before and after. We urge everyone to celebrate responsibly. Plan for a sober ride home before you leave the house — your safety and the safety of others depend on it.

During the enforcement period, Officers will be stepping up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are lowest. Speeding, distracted driving, and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced.

Whether you’re attending a party, hosting friends or going out to a bar, keep safety at the forefront. When it’s time to leave, make sure your designated driver is sober. Remember that walking or biking while impaired — whether by alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs — can also be dangerous, so choose a sober friend to go with you. Designated drivers: Be alert for impaired walkers who may not obey street signs. It’s not about luck; it’s about smart decisions.

The St. Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered by IDOT.