Sec’y of State Jesse White urges motorists to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday safely

Secretary of State Police conduct DUI Patrols

 

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White is reminding drivers not to drink and drive and to wear their safety belts during this Fourth of July holiday.  White warned drivers that Secretary of State Police will be conducting DUI patrols during the holiday.

“Drinking and driving is a deadly combination which threatens people’s lives in Illinois every year,” White said.  “Choose a sober driver and help us ensure that this holiday doesn’t become a tragedy for any family.”

• In 2011, 69 percent of the Fourth of July fatalities in Illinois were alcohol-related.
• In 2010, 70 percent of the Fourth of July fatalities in Illinois were alcohol-related.

The Fourth of July holiday is the fourth deadliest holiday for motorists and passengers in Illinois.

If a drunk driver is spotted on the road, drivers are warned to keep a safe distance and try to obtain their license plate number, make, model and color of the vehicle, White advised. Drivers should then pull over and call 911 to report the description, location of the vehicle and direction of travel to the police.

White urged drivers to celebrate the holiday safely by using a designated driver who abstains from drinking.  If drinking is involved in the celebration, White suggests taking public transportation, calling a cab, or staying overnight.  White also reminds drivers that a safety belt is often the best defense against a drunk driver.

Secretary of State Offices Closed Wednesday for Independence Day

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that all Driver Services facilities and offices will be closed Wednesday, July 4th, 2012, in observance of Memorial Day.

Driver Services facilities that are normally open Tuesday through Saturday will close as well.

All Driver Services facilities will reopen for regular business on Thursday, July 5th, 2012.

Individuals can visit the Secretary of State’s website, www.cyberdriveillinois.com, to change an address, register to become an organ & tissue donor or renew license plate stickers if they have received a renewal form by mail.