NEWS For Information, Contact:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sergeant Chris Mowinski
06/18/2026 Main:(708) 531-5755
Northlake Police begins Fourth of July crackdown on impaired drivers and seat belt law violators.
Northlake, Illinois – Northlake Police Department announced plans for Independence Day traffic enforcement with a focus on impaired and unbuckled drivers. The safety campaign will run from June 19 through July 6 to encompass three summer weekends leading up to and after the holiday.
“We’re asking all of our residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day safely,” said Sergeant Chris Mowinski. “It’s simple: If you’re driving, don’t drink or use drugs. Our officers will be out in full force to keep impaired drivers off the road.”
Northlake Police will join the Illinois State Police and more than 200 local police and sheriff’s departments for the increased statewide enforcement effort.
“This Fourth of July, designate a sober driver and don’t let friends or family members drive under the influence,” said Sergeant Mowinski.
Other important tips include:
· Give your designated driver your keys before you go out.
· If you are drunk or impaired by cannabis or other drugs, call a taxi, take mass transit, use your favorite ride-sharing service or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
· Use your community’s designated driver program.
· Promptly report drunk drivers to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 9-1-1.
· Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt. Not only is it the law, it’s your best defense against an impaired driver.
The Illinois Independence Day enforcement campaign is funded with federal highway safety dollars administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation and supported by the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies across the state. It’s reinforced with IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” media campaign, which shares real stories of Illinois residents lost in fatal crashes.
