The Park Forest Police Department is increasing patrols through July 7 to enforce seat belt laws as part of the statewide "Click It or Ticket" campaign.

This enforcement effort, which began on June 20, specifically targets unbuckled drivers and passengers, especially during the busy travel period around the Fourth of July. 

Park Forest police are collaborating with the Illinois State Police and over 200 law enforcement agencies across the state in this initiative, which is funded by federal traffic safety dollars through the Illinois Department of Transportation.

"We're asking all of our residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day safely," said Deputy Chief Kristopher Vallow. "Our officers will be working diligently to ensure that everyone is buckled up." 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly half of the individuals who died in motor vehicle crashes during the Fourth of July holiday period in 2022 were not wearing seat belts. Wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passengers by 45 percent and the risk of moderate to critical injury by 50 percent.

The Fourth of July is also one of the deadliest holidays due to impaired driving. Therefore, The Park Forest Police Department will also be focusing on identifying and arresting impaired or unsafe drivers.

In 2022, 40 percent of fatal crashes over the holiday weekend involved a drunk driver. Authorities are urging drivers to plan ahead by designating a sober driver or using public transportation or rideshare options. 

"Seat belts save lives, and impaired driving destroys them," Vallow said. "Let’s work together to make this holiday weekend a safe one for everyone on the road." 

The "Click It or Ticket" campaign runs through July 7, covering three critical summer weekends of increased travel.