Personal Injury Law

Authorities targeting drunk drivers over Labor Day; Illinois car accidents a risk

By Kris Briggs

State and local law enforcement from more than 300 agencies will be out on Illinois roads this Labor Day weekend conducting 200+ roadside safety checks, including DUI checkpoints and seat-belt enforcement stops, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association.

On the cusp of the holiday ?You Drink & Drive. You Lose? DUI crackdown, the Illinois Department of Transportation released data this week reflecting a steady statewide decline in alcohol-related car accident fatalities since 2002. Since then, the number of alcohol-related Illinois motor vehicle fatalities has dropped from 442 to 322, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

Chicago car accident attorneys at VanPopering Law Offices have a proven track record representing clients involved in hit-and-run and drunk driving accidents and crashes with underinsured and uninsured motorists. We understand that many victims suffer both short-term and permanent injuries and can be overwhelmed dealing with vehicle repairs, rehabilitation therapy, insurance companies and medical claims.

IDOT officials credit more aggressive law enforcement efforts and public awareness campaigns for the downturn. ?It is inappropriate to drink and drive regardless of the time of day," said Acting Illinois State Police Director Jonathon Monken.

"Statistics tells us your chances of being involved in an alcohol related crash or fatal crash increases dramatically at night. Therefore, in addition to efforts put forth during the holiday travel period, the Illinois State Police will focus our efforts on DUI and seat belt enforcement during night time details throughout the Labor Day weekend," said Monken.

Our attorneys wish you a safe and happy holiday, and want you to know we are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions if you are injured in car accident.

At VanPopering Law Office our goal is simple: to assist those who have been injured or the families of those who have been killed due to the negligence of another driver. Our attorneys practice in all geographic areas in the greater Chicagoland area, including but not limited to Joliet, Rockford, Aurora, Waukegan, and anywhere in between.

Full post as published by Illinois Injury Law Blog on September 03, 2010 (boomark / email).