Illinois State Police in the local District 10 are urging motorists to drive responsibly this holiday period. State Trooper Joseph Rush says there are things that motorists need to remember as they hit the road…
‘’Just keep in mind there’s going to be lots of travel traffic…wear their seatbelts…avoid distractions if at all possible…watch your speeds, and just be courteous of the other drivers who are out there traveling on the roadways as well.’’
Although barricades have been taken down – where possible – in construction zones to allow traffic to flow, Trooper Rush says the reduced speed limit still applies in those areas….
‘’Construction zone speed limits are set forth throughout the entire time the construction is going on, due to lane changes that might be there or other things that could cause a traffic hazard,’’ said Trooper Rush. ‘’So it is important to slow your speed down and pay attention, because there is night work that does happen as well. So there could be workers out there even late at night.’’
And if you are caught violating the speed limit or other laws – you will be paying more because of changes that just went into effect on Monday….
‘’One of the big things is that distracted driving is now a moving violation. So it’s going to count against your driver’s license. Three strikes on your driver’s license in a year, within a twelve month period – is going to get you a driver’s license suspension,’’ said Trooper Rush. ‘’We’ve also seen an increase in our fines – so all petty traffic offenses, — you know — speeding, seat belt, cell phone have all went up to $164 for a citation for that, and then bond for misdemeanor traffic violations have went up from $1500 – 10-percent – to $2500 – 10-percent. So you would need $250 to post bond for say a suspended driver’s license,’’ added Rush.
District 10 Commander Louis Kink says all troopers want everyone to have a safe and fun holiday.
