The Park Forest Police Department announced on Mar. 27 that it will increase patrols throughout April as part of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, joining law enforcement agencies across Illinois to target drivers using electronic devices.
The initiative is a collaboration with the Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police. Officers will focus on identifying motorists who text, use social media, or engage in other distractions while driving. “Distracted driving puts everyone at risk, and even a quick glance at a phone can have devastating consequences,” Deputy Chief Kristopher Vallow said. “During April, officers will remind motorists to put the phone away and focus on the road.”
Officials highlight that distracted driving is a major factor in crashes nationwide, causing thousands of injuries and fatalities each year. Data from state and federal sources indicate that looking away from the road for just five seconds at highway speeds equates to traveling the length of a football field without seeing where one is going.
Illinois law prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while operating a vehicle. Violators may face fines, court costs, or even suspension of their driver’s license.
Police encourage drivers to plan ahead before starting their trip by pulling over safely if they need to send messages or check directions. The campaign’s goal is to reduce accidents caused by distractions behind the wheel through increased awareness and enforcement funded by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
According to the official website, Village of Park Forest promotes community health and engagement via dedicated commissions and programs according to the official website. The village has also received recognition for its sustainability efforts in town planning according to the official website, operates under a council-manager government with a mayor and six trustees according to the official website, supports climate protection initiatives according to the official website, aims for economic improvement through collaboration according to the official website, and provides educational opportunities such as its Civic Leadership Academy according to the official website.
Officials expressed one message for all drivers during April: put your phone away or pay.
