The Illinois State Police (ISP) and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced plans for the Memorial Day “Stay Alive on the I’s” enforcement initiative. The traffic safety campaign is aimed to help increase safety and reduce fatalities during the Memorial Day weekend.

“Stay Alive on the I’s” enforcement begins on Friday, May 22, from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. During that time, all Illinois interstates will be saturated with Troopers placed every 10 miles along interstate corridors. The enforcement detail concludes on Monday, May 25, with patrols from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.

“During Stay Alive on the I’s patrols throughout the Memorial Day weekend, our primary enforcement goal is to reduce the number of crashes and fatalities on Illinois interstates,” said ISP Director Jonathon Monken. “To accomplish this, officers will place an emphasis on fatal five violations – speeding, seat belt use, DUI, improper lane usage, and following too closely -- as well as the Move Over law – in an attempt to save lives.”

“IDOT supports the ‘Stay Alive on the I's’ enforcement campaign. The agency is committed to making the most of the necessary resources to ensure public safety. We want to encourage drivers across the state to buckle up, and stay alert while driving,” IDOT Secretary Gary Hannig.

Due to the increase of Troopers on patrol throughout the holiday weekend, Director Monken and Secretary Hannig remind motorists of the Move Over law which requires motorists to yield to moving emergency vehicles, including highway maintenance vehicles, displaying oscillating, rotating, or flashing lights. Additionally, the Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes, if safe to do so, or reduce speed and proceed with caution when approaching a stationary vehicle displaying flashing warning lights.

Over the 2008 Memorial Day weekend, there were 14 crashes, resulting in 12 fatalities on all Illinois roadways. The Illinois State Police handled 316 crashes on Illinois interstates which resulted in 1 fatality. Troopers posted every 10 miles on the interstate will have the highest impact on the largest concentration of travelers.

“Stay Alive on the I’s” is in conjunction with the Memorial Day Click It or Ticket campaign. Motorists are reminded to help make Memorial Day a safe holiday by electing to buckle-up, slow down, and drive defensively.