SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Police announced today that 13 persons lost their lives as a result of 12 fatal crashes on Illinois roadways during the Memorial Day weekend. This total compares to 25 fatalities and 21 crashes over the 1999 Memorial Day weekend. The average number for the last seven years is 20 fatalities.
The Illinois State Police issued nearly 19,000 citations and written warnings over the four-day period. In addition, troopers made 155 DUI arrests and provided assistance to more than 1,800 motorists.
Significantly, in the five fatal crashes handled by the state police, none of the people killed was wearing a safety belt. The Illinois State Police issued nearly 2,500 citations for safety belt and child restraint violations as part of the Click It or Ticket initiative and Operation ABC (America Buckles-Up Children) Mobilization. The Click It or Ticket enforcement period, which began May 22, concludes June 4. In addition to the ISP, over 300 local law enforcement agencies are participating in the initiative. |
