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November 15, 2006

Dave Druker
Elizabeth Kaufman

Secretary White Encourages Drivers to Be Safe This Thanksgiving-
Designate Sober Driver

SPRINGFIELD — Secretary of State Jesse White encouraged people to be safe and responsible drivers this Thanksgiving by not drinking and driving. Last year, alcohol was involved in sixty-seven percent of fatal Thanksgiving holiday crashes, making it the deadliest holiday of 2005 on a percentage basis.

"The night before Thanksgiving is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for alcohol-related fatal crashes," White said. "One fatality is one too many, so let's work not to experience a tragedy in our family or someone else's because of impaired driving. Stay where you are or designate a sober driver."

• In 2005, eight out of 12 traffic fatalities were alcohol-related.
• In 2004, two out of 13 traffic fatalities were alcohol-related.

During the holiday, White's office is working with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to distribute red ribbons for the "Tie One on for Safety" program, which encourages drivers to tie a red ribbon on their cars as a sign that they are safe and sober drivers. The ribbons are available at driver's license facilities across the state.

The Secretary of State's office will also join with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and law enforcement agencies to enforce the Click It or Ticket campaign to increase safety belt usage during the holiday season. Secretary of State Police will be participating in DUI and seatbelt patrols during the holiday season, White said.

White reminded drivers that the safety belt is the best defense against a drunk driver.