Labor Day weekend: Extra police out enforcing impaired-driving and safety belt laws

[September 04, 2010]  SPRINGFIELD -- With thousands of people expected to be on the move on state highways over the upcoming holiday weekend, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced that roadwork will be suspended where possible to reduce potential traffic congestion this Labor Day weekend. IDOT and the Illinois State Police also remind drivers that they should buckle up every time and be aware that state and local law enforcement will be out in force to crack down on impaired drivers and safety belt violators.

"We know that lots of people will be out on the roadways visiting friends during the holiday weekend as they celebrate the traditional end of the summer season," IDOT Secretary Gary Hannig said. "We are suspending construction wherever possible, to keep drivers and workers safe and also to make travel as smooth as possible. IDOT is also working with Illinois State Police and local law enforcement across the state to strictly enforce impaired driving and safety belt laws over the holiday weekend. If you drink, don’t drive -- and make sure all the passengers in your vehicle are buckled up, every trip, every time."

Starting at 3 p.m. Friday IDOT suspended all non-emergency roadwork and opened up all lanes where possible, which will be in effect until midnight Monday. However, due to the nature of some projects, there will be construction zones throughout the state that will continue to have lane closures in effect.

IDOT is urging motorists to slow down and drive with caution through these work zones. Holiday travelers are reminded that work zone speed limits are still in effect wherever they are posted.

[Text from file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]