Sec'y of State Jesse White encourages drivers to be safe this Labor Day

Last Year’s Fatalities Decrease, White Hopes Trend Continues

 

 Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White is encouraging people to be safe and responsible drivers this Labor Day weekend by not drinking and driving. 

“Illinois drivers have made a substantial improvement the past three Labor Day weekends in regards to safe driving,” White said. “Alcohol-related fatalities have decreased by almost 50 percent over that timeframe. My hope is that our drivers continue that trend until there are no deaths on our roads.”

            Illinois Department of Transportation figures show:

• In 2010, 9 percent of fatal crashes (1 of 11) were alcohol-related on Labor Day weekend.
• In 2009, 40 percent of fatal crashes (2 of 5) were alcohol-related on Labor Day weekend.
• In 2008, 58 percent of fatal crashes (7 of 12) were alcohol-related on Labor Day weekend.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, one alcohol-impaired driving fatality occurs every 48 minutes.

 “If you are drinking, stay where you are or designate a sober driver,” White said. “Secretary of State Police will be participating in DUI and seatbelt patrols during the holiday weekend.”