SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) released provisional figures today which indicate 16 persons lost their lives on Illinois roadways over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend as a result of 15 fatal crashes. There were 4 crashes on Wednesday, 2 on Thursday, 2 on Friday, 4 on Saturday, and 3 on Sunday. During last year’s five-day holiday weekend there were 18 deaths as a result of 18 fatal crashes.
“The goal of the Illinois State Police is to do all we can to make the roads as safe as possible. Every fatality is tragic and unfortunate,” said Director Sam W. Nolen. “Our continued emphasis this holiday season will be aggressive, targeted enforcement, combined with a vigorous public information and education effort to save lives.”
ISP officers issued more than 18,500 citations and written warnings during the National Combined Accident Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.) weekend. Totals included 2,422 for safety belt and child restraint violations. Troopers also made 158 DUI arrests and provided assistance to more than 1,900 motorists.
These statistics reflect fatalities reported to the ISP as of December 4 by district headquarters and local and county authorities. |
