Palatine Traffic Cops Out In Force For St. Patrick’s Day – Journal & Topics Media Group

Palatine police are stepping up enforcement for St. Patrick’s Day as part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI” campaigns.

“This year, St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Friday, and that means more parties throughout the weekend,” Palatine Police Cmdr. David Brandwein said. “If you’ve been drinking, using cannabis or any other impairing drug, make the smart choice and plan for a sober driver to get you and your friends home safely. Before you put your keys in the ignition, remind yourself: ‘Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving’. We want everyone to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, but safe driving is everyone’s responsibility.”

In addition to looking for alcohol and cannabis-impaired drivers, the Palatine Police Dept. 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.

The campaign runs March 10-19. Additionally, the Palatine Police Dept. will conduct a Roadside Safety Check in the 1200 block of W. Algonquin Road from 10 p.m. Friday, March 17 through 3 a.m. Saturday, March 18.

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

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